For Immediate Release
Date: March 27, 2013

A delegation from Israel is in Savannah this week to explore developing cultural and education ties with Savannah.

This week’s visit includes Dr. Yael Yuli Tamir, Chairperson of the Association of Civil Rights in Israel and President of Shenkar College near Tel Aviv; as well as Yonit Stern, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Consulate General of Israel to the Southeast.

Wednesday through Friday, the delegation will tour and meet with officials at Armstrong Atlantic State University, the Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah State University and Savannah Technical College. The goal is to develop faculty and student exchange programs, and share best practices between the institutions.

Dr. Tamir will give a lecture on Peace and Human Rights from 3-4 p.m. Thursday, March 28, at Adams Hall at Savannah State University. The public is invited.

Members of the Israeli delegation will join members of City Council, as well as college and university officials, for a wrap-up press conference at 1 p.m. Friday, March 29, in City Council Chambers at City Hall.

The trip comes on the heels of a visit earlier this month from a delegation of Israeli shipping industry officials, who toured the Ports and met with local business leaders. Last summer a delegation from the Israeli National Chamber of Commerce also met with leaders in Savannah.

It’s part of a larger program spearheaded by Mayor Edna Jackson, with support from the Savannah Jewish Federation, to foster business, education and cultural ties between Savannah and the State of Israel. The trips resulted after Mayor Jackson trip to Israel last spring for the International Conference of Mayors.

“With our long-established, active Jewish community, and shared business priorities, it makes sense for us to spend time developing economic, educational and cultural ties between Israel and Savannah,” Mayor Jackson said. “This is developing into a very close relationship that will benefit both sides.”