About the Program
Mandel Foundation–Israel (MF-I) was established in 1990 to foster educational and social leadership in Israel, both in governmental and third-sector organizations, in the spirit of the Mandel Foundation's mission.
At the heart of MF-I's leadership development model is Mort Mandel’s unique approach to leadership. In all training programs, fellows undergo an intensive process of clarifying their vision, values, and professional identity. The fellows study theory and practice relevant to their field of action and develop initiatives that translate their ideas into impactful practice. The study of the humanities plays a major role in MF-I's leadership development process.
MF-I offers multiple leadership programs conducted via the Foundation's different units. The Mandel School for Educational Leadership was founded as a joint venture with Israel's Ministry of Education to cultivate visionary leadership for Israel's education system. Graduates of the School hold key positions in the education system, nonprofit organizations, and national and local government in Israel.
Additional educational and social leadership programs for Israel's varied communities and professional fields are conducted under the umbrella of the Mandel Leadership Institute. These include programs for the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, youth organization leaders, Jewish culture entrepreneurs, academic leaders in teacher education, IDF officers, and senior civil servants.
Two additional leadership training units focus on Israel's peripheries: the Mandel Center for Leadership in the Negev and the Mandel Center for Leadership in the North. These centers encourage leaders in different regions and from diverse ethnic groups (Arabs, Druze, Bedouin, religious and secular Jews, etc.) to work together to bring about change across an entire region. This regional approach creates new opportunities, increases impact, helps reduce social inequalities, and promotes greater tolerance and understanding among Israel's diverse ethnic groups.
The Mandel Graduate Unit enables all major Mandel programs graduates to join a burgeoning professional network, collaborate on initiatives, and benefit from life-long learning opportunities.
