As we move deeper into our summer journey, this past week has been rich with learning, adventure, and meaningful encounters, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Jewish history and the modern State of Israel.

Our students began the week with a spiritually uplifting Shabbat in Jerusalem. They danced at the Kotel, explored the new city, and soaked in the uniquely peaceful atmosphere of Shabbat in the capital.

On Sunday, we kicked things off with a fascinating seminar on innovation and economics, led by a talented Druze entrepreneur who also shared insights into life as a Druze citizen in Israel. That day we also welcomed four Israeli teens who joined our group for the week, connecting with their American peers through dance, games, and shared experiences.

Our next stop was Kfar Hamaccabiah in Ramat Gan, home to the Jewish Olympics. We explored the historic link between athletics and the renewal of Jewish pride and strength—an idea rooted in the concept of “Muscular Judaism.” A highlight was meeting Tal Brody, the legendary basketball player who left an NBA career to help lead Maccabi Tel Aviv to international victory.

On Monday, we journeyed south to Be’er Sheva, where we brought joy to an old age home with dancing and games. We then made our way to Kfar Hanokdim, a desert retreat where we rode camels, gathered around a bonfire, and met an Israeli Bedouin who shared his unique story as both a Muslim Arab and former IDF soldier. His perspective shed light on the complexities of identity in Israeli society.

We rose before dawn on Tuesday to climb Masada, watching the sunrise from the mountaintop and reflecting on the site’s powerful symbolism of Jewish resilience and determination. Afterward, we cooled off in the Dead Sea before returning to campus.

Later that evening, our students experienced a “Red Alert” siren—an unfortunate but real part of life in Israel. Thanks to prior preparation, everyone responded calmly and responsibly. The missile, launched from Yemen, was intercepted outside Israel’s borders. Despite the tension, the students witnessed firsthand the resilience, preparedness, and composure of Israeli society—a sobering yet meaningful moment of learning.

On Thursday, we returned to Be’er Sheva to visit Ben Gurion University’s Yazamut 360, an innovation and entrepreneurship center. Our students worked in teams to develop and pitch their ideas with guidance from professionals, learning teamwork, creativity, and communication.

We plan to end the week in nature, relaxing and refreshing at the beautiful Sachne springs. Students will enjoy a free Shabbat, with opportunities to visit friends or family across the country.

Saturday night and Sunday mark the 9th of Av, a solemn day of mourning in Jewish tradition. We will commemorate it with a visit to Yad Vashem, continuing our journey through Jewish memory and identity.

Every day here is filled with learning, laughter, challenge, tragedy, and inspiration. We are grateful to be on this journey together—and there’s still so much more to experience.

Shabbat Shalom!