Ushering in a Year of Hope with Mark Gaines

While 2024 has challenged the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Israel, and the global Jewish community, I have started to notice a more prominent feeling of hope and excitement for the future. In discussing what this new year holds for Israeli innovation with Technion President Uri Sivan and brilliant professors, it is clear that supporting scientific exploration has never been more urgent to usher in a year of rebuilding and economic progress for Israel.

I spoke with American Technion Society president Mark Gaines about the research that we’re excited to follow this year and how the Technion will be crucial for Israel’s resilience now, and for decades to come.

Michael: It is impossible to look to the year ahead without acknowledging the incredible bravery and sacrifice of Israel’s reservists who have served over the past year – especially those who were called to the front lines while pursuing their studies.

Mark: Indeed. What these students have gone through while balancing their academic work is a reality that many of us cannot even imagine. The Technion has tirelessly ensured that all students have what they need to be successful in and out of the classroom, but we cannot ignore the challenges that are inevitable during a time of war. While we know that Israel – and the Technion – will likely have to grapple with this new reality for some time, they are clearly well poised to face it with confidence.

Keep reading at blogs.timesofisrael.com.

This article was written by American Technion Society CEO Michael Waxman-Lenz.