American Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) has appointed Dima Shimelfarb as vice president of development for the Eastern region, a newly created role designed to strengthen the organization’s national fundraising presence.
The announcement was made by Ben Pery, CEO of AFTAU, who noted that the appointment is part of a broader restructuring of the development team.
“Dima is a strategic thinker with a proven track record in cultivating relationships,” said Pery. “His leadership will be instrumental as AFTAU expands Tel Aviv University’s visibility and impact across the United States.”
“Israel is entering a period of renewal and recovery, and that journey begins with renewed investment in strong institutions like Tel Aviv University that help shape the country’s future,” said Dima Shimelfarb. “TAU is a national engine of growth, innovation and leadership. Supporting the university is a direct investment in Israel’s economic strength, social resilience and the democratic values that define it.”
Shimelfarb brings more than a decade of experience in Jewish philanthropy, most recently serving as the chief development officer for the Israeli-American Council. He has also held senior positions at the Israel Scholarship Education Foundation and the Jewish Agency for Israel.
Born in Russia, he emigrated to Israel when he was 16. After completing his service with the Israel Defense Forces, he became a Jewish emissary for informal Jewish education in Moscow.
He holds an MBA in public policy leadership from the Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) in Herzliya, as well as a master’s in negotiation and conflict resolution from Columbia University. He speaks fluent Russian, Hebrew, English and Chinese.
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