Project Interchange
| Formation | 1982 |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Washington, D.C. |
Executive Director | Sam Witkin |
| Website |
Founded in 1982, Project Interchange, an institute of the American Jewish Committee, provides current and emerging United States and international leaders with an enhanced understanding of, and perspective on, Israel and the pursuit of Middle East peace through introductory educational seminars in Israel.
About
Founded in 1982, Project Interchange has brought over 5,000 influential figures to Israel from more than 60 countries for intensive week-long travel seminars. Participants of the program come from fields that influence policy and public opinion — such as journalism, politics, health care, security, and academia — and represent various religions, backgrounds, and points of view.
Programs
Seminars include travel across much of Israel and are customized to emphasize the specific interests of each delegation. Activities include various site visits and briefings by, meetings with, and discussions among a broad range of professionals, policy-makers and officials.
Participants
Each year, Project Interchange invites approximately 300 current and emerging leaders from the U.S. and worldwide to participate in educational seminars in Israel. Participants are from diverse cultures and religions, and from fields that affect public opinion, shape community action, and drive public policy. Past delegations have included journalists, university presidents, clergy, government officials, and diplomats.
Project Interchange also develops seminars focusing on disciplines in which Israel has particular expertise, such as energy, security and health care. Through their PI experience, seminar participants invariably acquire a deeper understanding of Israel, while developing new ideas and networks that benefit their professional future.
Impact
In 2008 PI offered 25 seminars for delegations including more than 300 U.S. and International leaders. Some groups included university presidents, clergy, journalists, public health leaders, state officials, Rhodes Scholars, UN ambassadors, immigration and integration experts, and environmental experts. PI is widening its reach to even more leaders throughout the U.S. and around the world. PI tailors seminars to address the unique interests of each delegation. PI provides support to our ever-growing alumni network. Upon return, participants: Write articles, give interviews, begin collaborations with partner organizations in Israel, get involved with local issues of common concern with the Jewish community.