On the evening of Monday, January 13, the Azrieli Fellows Program hosted a social dinner for its current International Postdoctoral and Early Career Faculty Fellows. With no formal opening celebration this year, the gathering provided a valuable opportunity to connect and welcome the new cohorts. The event took place at The Lawrence, a historic venue with a vaulted stone ceiling and a unique layout whose original purpose remains a mystery, adding to Old Jaffa’s ancient and enigmatic charm.
The evening began with a glass of wine and an array of appetizers, providing a chance for mingling and conversation. The night’s highlight was the visit from Dr. Naomi Azrieli, Chair and CEO of the Azrieli Foundation, who was joined by the Azrieli Foundation Board member Ms. Rebecca Shafrir. Naomi’s genuine investment in and support for the Fellows’ success served as a reminder of the program’s unique commitment to making a lasting impact on both the academic community and society as a whole.
Dr. Aviad Stollman, Global Director of the Azrieli Fellows Program, opened the evening’s speeches with inspiring words that set the tone for a night of gratitude and connection.
Following Aviad’s remarks, two Fellows spoke. First, Dr. Reut Naim, a Faculty Early Career Fellow at Tel Aviv University, offered a welcome and gratitude. She reflected on how the program’s support—both financial and the community aspect—has been crucial to her academic journey. Reut highlighted the program’s resources, such as professional workshops and networking opportunities, and emphasized the stability the community has provided during her first year.
Next, Dr. Christina Riemenschneider, an International Postdoctoral Fellow at the Weizmann Institute of Science, welcomed the new Fellows and shared her experiences conducting research abroad. She emphasized the invaluable support from the Azrieli Fellows Program in fostering collaboration and personal growth.
As the evening came to a close, each Fellow received the new Azrieli Fellows annual book—a keepsake featuring bios and photos of the latest cohort, highlighting the diversity and excellence within the program.