Tel-Hai Magazine 2022

I want to contribute to the development of this area; the strength of Tel-Hai College is central to that process

A ‘one step at a time’ approach “This is a part of the country that I feel connected to, not only through my ac tivities here, over the years, but also as a resident. I want to contribute to the development of this area; the strength of Tel-Hai College is central to that pro cess. For some time now, there’s been talk of a university in the Galilee. This is a wonderful vision, a long-term goal, but I’d prefer to talk about taking one step at a time to achieve that goal, look ing first at the short-term steps we can take in that direction. For example, if we have the resources to attract some ‘stars’, say, in Food Science and Psychol ogy, and can offer their mentorship to doctoral students, together with our af filiation with MIGAL, then we’ll have a university. In addition, I’d like to bring business concerns that would, for exam ple, establish a development center that would be connected to the Computer Science Department at the college. My dream would be to bring in a company like WIX.” A strong academic institution acts as a solid anchor that will support its environment Feldman's vast experience of working with the Investment Center, and of au

thorizing support and assistance to the north, and other parts of the country, have provided him with insight into the type of investments that would best serve the development of the region. He explains that, in the past, large sums of money have been invested in the north, but these investments were directed by the considerations of financial and eco nomic bodies. This resulted in a situa tion where, as soon as the tax benefits and incentives the body received were exhausted, the motivation to remain or to maintain involvement in the Gal ilee, dissipated. “But it’s different, when it comes to academia,” says Feldman. “What characterizes academia, as op posed to the business sector, is that it’s not as affected by economic trends. A strong academic institution acts as a sol id anchor and, if that anchor develops, it provides stability and a good base for growth. What interests me is how this anchor can influence and benefit its en vironment.” “Donors can become involved, and become partners in the develop ment of Tel-Hai” “Tel-Hai is an excellent place. Our standpoint is that we are good, but we can do even better. I meet people with

enthusiasm, and there is potential for cooperation and involvement for the families that invest here, as with the Car asso family, who have already become very involved in the activity of the col lege. Donors here can take an active role in developing the college. I bring with me several donors from the business world, and I aspire to bring in contri butions that are not solely financial, but also involve contributing knowledge and experience. I believe that the more an institution connects with its donors and makes them full partners, the greater the chance that they will stay." In the short time between taking up his new role and this interview, Feldman has already become acquainted with the heads of local authorities in the region, and gained an understanding of the dynamics of investment in the Galilee. Feldman says his experience in working with government offices, and his famil iarity with the politics of investment will assist him in navigating his way to recruiting leaders in Jerusalem as part ners in his plans for Tel-Hai, and for the Galilee.

Tel-Hai Magazaine | 2022 5