What is the JSC’s vision?

The Jewish Statesmanship Center was founded in 2007, with the goal of developing visionary public leaders who have the multidisciplinary knowledge and personal skills necessary to lead society and the State of Israel. We believe such leadership can be developed through systematic, in-depth study of identity and policy issues, and the creation of a values-based, professional community that will take an active role in Israel’s public systems.

For whom is the program intended?

The program is intended for outstanding BA, MA or doctoral students in the humanities, social sciences, and law faculties at Israeli academic institutions, who wish to impact upon the public either in academia or as public servants in various public systems.

What does the program offer?

Personal training toward future work in the public sector; multidisciplinary knowledge and tools to formulate public policy; personal connection with the staff, network of graduates and program participants; follow-on program for graduates (including internships in government offices); development of Jewish and Zionist thought; joining a network of influential public-oriented individuals; and creation of a meaningful, values-based social circle.

What are the programs requirements?

The basic requirements of the program are full attendance at learning sessions (Thursdays, 9:30-19:45), submitting a weekly report on the required reading and bi-monthly written assignments intended to maximize learning and personal development. In addition, participants must attend a four-part rhetoric and writing workshop held each semester, two weekend seminars and four tours throughout the year. Only candidates who can commit to fulfilling these requirements can join the program.

Is the program suitable for university students?

Yes. The program follows the academic school year, beginning in October and ending in June. However there are a few sessions that take place during the summer months (for example, orientation).

Is there class during semester break?

No. The program follows the academic calendar. There is a two-week break during semester break.

What is the cost of the program?

The program is offered at a subsidized cost of 3,600 NIS.

Are there scholarships?

A limited number of scholarships are given every year, based on academic merit and socio-economic status. Participants may be offered a scholarship to attend the program or a stipend to the amount of tuition for one academic school year.

Is the JSC a political entity?

No. The JSC is an intellectual, educational institution, unaffiliated with any political party. The JSC’s programs bring together unique schools of thought in the humanities. Within these schools of thought students will find conservative, nationalist, liberal and Jewish ideas, in a wide range of applications. The JSC’s founding principle is that the State of Israel is the Jewish people’s national homeland, and that the Zionist enterprise constitutes a renewal of ancient Jewish history.

What qualities does the ideal JSC graduate possess?

Independent thought, creativity, and leadership ability. In this regard, some forty unique role models graduate the JSC each year, each with his or her unique path. Some see their future in the intellectual sphere, some in the public service, some as social entrepreneurs.

Where are JSC graduates today?

Our graduates hold varied positions in governmental offices, the Knesset, the State Attorney’s Office, educational institutions, the media and academia. Some are directors of non-profits and third-sector organizations. Among are graduates are:

Adv. Gil Bringer (2011), Administrator of the Ministerial Committee for Legislation and senior assistant at the office of the Minister of Justice.

Alon Kimhi (2011), Founding Director of What Is Real student hasbara organization.

Zecharya Ziegelman (2010), Advisor to the Government Companies Authority.

Sarah Haetzni-Cohen (2008), Director of the My Israel movement for Zionist activism and hasbara.

Hanna Kidron (2008), cadet in the Civil Service Cadet Program of the Civil Service Commission.

Dr. Eithan Orkibi (2010), lecturer in the sociology and anthropology department, Ariel University.

Avi Ablov (2011), Senior advisor to the Director-General of the Ministry for Jerusalem and Diaspora Affairs.

Amichai Shikli (2012), Head of the Tavor Pre-Military Academy.

Yaakov Epstein (2013), Founding Director of the Ye’adim center for academic guidance and placement of Haredim.

Akiva Bigman (2010), Deputy Editor of Mida news site.

Naama Klar (2009), Analyst at the Reut Institute, formerly interned with the Israeli delegation to the UN.

What does the program entail?

The program is divided into four main study units:

1. The State of Israel: Between Particularism and Universalism. This unit examines the founding principles of the State of Israel, their ideological and historical roots and how these are expressed in governmental systems and modern Jewish society in Israel.

2.  Israel in the Middle East: Isolated settlement or regional power? This unit examines the cultural, political, strategic and military aspects of Arab nations in the Middle East and their influence on relations with Israel.

3. Israel in the International Arena: a threat to world peace or a light unto the nations? This unit explores world cultures, historical processes in the balance of power in the international arena, and their impact on Israel’s foreign relations.

4. The Necessary Steps and Processes toward a Just Society: economy, media and leadership. This unit examines Israel’s political, economic and social history, and ways to influence the public discourse within Israeli society and its institutions.

Each study unit includes lectures on identity and public policy, as well as strategic tours and workshops for developing leadership skills. Each topic has three or four sessions dedicated to it, during which lectures and follow-up discussions take place, as well as tours (where relevant). As some examples, last year as part of a learning session on potential support for Israel, students got to hear AJC-Jerusalem Director Ed Rettig lecture on relations between Israel and Diaspora Jewry.

Rabbi Shlomo Riskin spoke about the evangelicals in the US and transformations among pro-Israel Christians.

Yoram Ettinger spoke about the potential for pro-Israel support among the American public, as evident in Congress.

Additionally, former Minister of Science and Technology Prof. Daniel Hershkowitz lectured about Israel’s aeronautics industry and its global prominence as a case study as regards Israel’s scientific and technological edge as well as potential for scientific and commercial collaboration.