Alan S. Zekelman, a noted businessman and philanthropist, became chairman of Bar-Ilan University’s Global Board of Trustees.
Zekelman, who immediately before this new appointment had been serving as chairman of the board at American Friends of Bar-Ilan University, is an owner of leading steel manufacturing companies founded by his late father, Harry Zekelman. He also serves on the University of Rochester’s Board of Trustees.
The Zekelman family has a long history of philanthropy, including its support for Bar-Ilan, as well as the Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus in Farmington Hills, Mich.
Upon accepting the chairmanship during Bar-Ilan’s milestone 70th annual Board of Trustees meeting, Zekelman spoke about the university’s attributes and mission.
“Bar-Ilan is more than an academic institution. It is a beacon of excellence, a place where tradition and innovation meet, where Jewish values are woven into the fabric of world-class research and education,” he said. “It is an institution that dares to ask difficult questions while remaining grounded in timeless values. Our task is not simply to continue a legacy, but to deepen it with bold vision, academic excellence, unity and a commitment to shaping a better society.”
Zekelman described a “pivotal time in higher education, where technology, global dynamics and social expectations are changing rapidly.” Against the backdrop of this landscape, he said Bar-Ilan “must not only respond to these changes but help lead them. Together, we will strive to ensure that our university remains a hub of groundbreaking research, inclusive dialogue, academic freedom and moral clarity.”
He emphasized student support as a key pillar of the school’s mission.
“Our students are at the very heart of what we do,” said Zekelman. “They deserve an environment that challenges them intellectually, supports them personally, and prepares them to contribute meaningfully to Israel and the world. Our faculty and researchers deserve our unwavering support as they push the boundaries of knowledge and truth.”
As chairman, he expressed a commitment to “strengthen Bar-Ilan’s position in Israel and on the global stage, and to ensure we remain faithful to our unique identity.”
“Together,” he concluded, “let us honor the past, lead in the present and shape a future worthy of Bar-Ilan’s ideals.”
“Alan Zekelman embodies the values and vision that define Bar-Ilan University,” said Professor Arie Zaban, president of the school. “His unwavering commitment to Jewish heritage, academic excellence and societal impact makes him the ideal leader to guide our Global Board of Trustees at this transformative moment. We extend our warmest congratulations to Alan and are honored to welcome him into this pivotal role as we chart an ambitious course for the university’s future.”
Jessica Feldan, CEO of American Friends of Bar-Ilan University, stated that “we wish a heartfelt congratulations to Alan Zekelman for his new role with Bar-Ilan University’s Board of Trustees, and express our appreciation for his dedicated service and leadership on the Board of American Friends of Bar-Ilan University. Alan’s deep experience and inspired vision will undoubtedly strengthen the university during this new era—a time in which the institution is driving advancement for Israel and all of humanity while impacting tomorrow, today.”
