“We, like the IDF, believe that the essence of education is character building, of acquiring values, and of knowledge,” said Annette Hochstein, President of the Mandel Foundation-Israel, in an opening ceremony to welcome the 4th cohort of the IDF Educational Leadership Development program.

The ceremony was attended by Marcela Asulin, Head of the IDF branch for female soldiers, Education and Youth Corps; Annette Hochstein, President of the Mandel Foundation-Israel and Dr. Eli Gottlieb, Director of the Mandel Leadership Institute (MLI).

“We have learned from previous cohorts, just how significant the role of IDF education officers are – your professional decisions and the work you do influence so many Israeli youth in their formative years,” said Hochstein to the new fellows, stressing the importance of their contribution as IDF officers to Israeli society.

The 20 new fellows were welcomed to the Mandel community and encouraged to take advantage of the benefits MLI can offer them.
 “We invite you to take a journey of personal introspection and public examination that will take you deep inside the issues of Israel society,” said Hochstein.  “It is likely to be a difficult journey, but also an opportunity for growth and both personal and leadership development.”

The new cohort learned about the other programs of the Mandel Leadership Institute from MLI Director Dr. Eli Gottlieb, who invited the officers to get to know fellows from other programs and other parts of the world, interact and exchange opinions with them.

Marcela Asulin, herself a graduate of second cohort of the IDF Educational Leadership Development Program, told participants:
“You will feel the effect of the tools you will acquire here in your daily activity, and you will understand the significance of elements of this program such as personal instruction and reflective practice.”

“Remember that your time here is a gift – so make the most of it,” concluded Asulin.