As Prof. Moshe Lewenstein wraps up a transformative seven-year tenure as Deputy President of Bar-Ilan University, his reflections reveal a leader who has not only driven significant projects but has also laid the groundwork for future advancements within the institution. In a recent conversation, he shared insights into three key initiatives: the International School, the Youth Center, and the Business Intelligence (BI) system, each of which exemplifies his commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Under his guidance, the International School has become a vibrant hub of activity, attracting international students and fostering global partnerships.
International School colleagues celebrate Orientation Day in 2022. L-R: Ofer Dahan, Executive Director; Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, former Deputy President of Bar-Ilan University; Merav Gilad, Director International Student Services and Affairs; and Prof. Rachel Dekel, former Academic Head
The International School: A Global Hub of Learning
Prof. Lewenstein’s vision for the International School was to create a vibrant environment that would attract students from around the world. “When I first started my position as Deputy President, I saw the potential for an international community that could thrive at Bar-Ilan. I wanted to build something that didn’t exist—a place where international students could come together with their Israeli counterparts to learn from one another and engage with diverse perspectives,” he explained.
L-R: Amb. Khaled Yousif al-Jalahma, Bahraini Ambassador to Israel, with Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, former Deputy President of Bar-Ilan University. An MOU was signed with Bahrain during the Ambassador’s visit to BIU as part of a partnership program with higher education institutions in Bahrain. This followed close on the heels of the Abraham Accords
Under his leadership, the International School has blossomed into a dynamic hub, offering a range of programs that cater to the needs of international students. “It’s not just about academics; it’s about creating an experience. Local and international students are collaborating, sharing ideas, and creating a sense of community that is truly unique,” Prof. Lewenstein emphasized. He credited the success of the International School to the dedicated International School team and the university’s faculty and staff, stating, “The passion and commitment they bring to their work is what makes this place special.”
The Youth Center: Engaging the Next Generation
Another cornerstone of Prof. Lewenstein’s tenure has been the establishment of the Youth Center, aimed at engaging local youth and fostering a love for learning. “The Youth Center was born out of a desire to connect with the community and provide opportunities for young people to explore their interests and develop their skills,” he shared.
Welcoming Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, and his wife, Michal, to BIU. L-R: Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, Deputy President; Dr. Sharon Goldman, Vice President for Global Resources; Prof. Shulamit Michaeli Goldberg, Vice President for Research; Prof. Arie Reich, Vice Rector; President Isaac Herzog; Ms Michal Herzog; Prof. Arie Zaban, President; Shlomo Zohar, Permanent Committee Chairman; Dr. Dov Khenin, Chair of the Israeli Climate Forum; Zohar Yinon, CEO; Prof. Amnon Albeck, Rector; and Ronit Ori from the Rector’s office
Prof. Lewenstein described the Youth Center as a space that encourages creativity and critical thinking. “It’s more than just a place for tutoring; we host workshops, lectures, and various programs that challenge students to think outside the box. I wanted the center to reflect the values of Bar-Ilan—intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and community engagement,” he noted with pride.
Reflecting on its impact, he said, “I’m looking back very satisfied to see that they’ve grown roots and are doing a lot of good. The feedback we’ve received from students and parents has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s clear that we’re making a difference.”
Business Intelligence: Data-Driven Decision Making
Perhaps one of the most innovative projects during Prof. Lewenstein’s tenure is the implementation of a Business Intelligence (BI) system designed to enhance data-driven decision-making across the university. “Zohar likes to call me the architect of the BI, and I’d like to think that’s a fitting description,” he said, recalling the collaborative process that brought the project to fruition. (*Zohar Yinon, BIU’s CEO.)
The BI system enables departments to visualize and analyze trends in student applications, departmental performance, and other critical metrics. This has enabled the university’s management to access and utilize academic and other data in a meaningful way, significantly improving working operations at numerous management levels. “This wasn’t something that existed when I started. Now, departments can easily assess how they’re performing compared to previous years and adjust their strategies accordingly,” he explained. “It’s about empowering our faculty and administration with the tools they need to make informed decisions.”
Prof. Lewenstein emphasized the significance of this initiative for the university’s future. “It’s being used across the institution, and it’s very important for our growth. We’re in an era where data can drive success, and I believe we are now positioned to leverage this information effectively,” he asserted.
L-R: Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, Zohar Yinon, and Ofer Dahan
Messages from Colleagues
While Prof. Lewenstein worked closely with many people at Bar-Ilan University, we have included messages from only four of them to keep this tribute short: Prof. Arie Zaban, President of Bar-Ilan University; Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of BIU’s International School; Prof. Rivka Tuval Mashiach, former Academic Head at BIU’s International School and new VP for Internationalization and the Third Mission, and Prof. Rachel Dekel, former Academic Head of the International School and founder and Director of Ripples for Recovery: Hub for Family-Oriented Trauma Treatment at Bar-Ilan.
Prof. Moshe Lewenstein was part of the BIU delegation that welcomed visitors from the Italian Embassy in Tel Aviv at the beginning of 2024. L-R: Ofer Dahan, Executive Director, International School; Prof. Gilbert Nessim, BIU’s Department of Chemistry; Prof. Rivka Tuval Mashiach, former Academic Head of the International School; Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, former Deputy President; Prof. Giuseppe Falini, Scientific Attachè, Italian Embassy in Tel Aviv; Prof. Arie Zaban, BIU President; and Oshrat Halfon, Senior Assistant to the Scientific Attaché
Moshe’s unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have not only transformed our institution, but have also inspired us all. He’s not just a colleague but a close friend—someone whose infectious enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment make every project feel possible. I am truly grateful that he will remain a vital part of our university team continuing to contribute his expertise and passion in new ways.” – Prof. Arie Zaban.
“Moshe’s empowering presence extends beyond our collaboration. I’ve observed this same behavior in his interactions with others. He naturally elevates those around him, fostering an atmosphere of excellence where people truly thrive.” – Ofer Dahan. Read the full message here.
“Working with Moshe has been a revelation. He remembers every detail about the university’s history, down to the smallest anecdotes, and somehow brings it all to life with his stories. His deep knowledge and warmth create a sense of tradition that makes everyone feel connected to the university’s legacy.” – Prof. Rivka Tuval Mashiach. Read the full message here.
“As Academic Head, I had the pleasure of working closely with him as we traveled to universities abroad, forging partnerships and collaborations that have strengthened our institution’s global reach. Those travels revealed his remarkable breadth of knowledge in Torah, history, geography, and beyond, as well as his genuine curiosity about people and cultures.” – Prof. Rachel Dekel. Read the full message here.
Acknowledgments and Appreciation
Prof. Lewenstein expressed his thanks to all the people who helped him achieve his goals.
“I would like to acknowledge Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of the International School, along with the two consecutive Academic Heads, Professors Rachel Dekel and Rivka Tuval-Mashiach, for their invaluable contributions. I also appreciate the hard work and dedication of Shani Mizrachi, Manager of the Bar-Ilan Youth Center,” said Prof. Lewenstein.
“Additionally, I recognize the IT department team for their role in developing the BI system, and I commend Avital Sontag for her tireless efforts and project-oriented approach that contributed to this initiative’s success. Finally, I extend my gratitude to Prof. Arie Zaban, BIU’s President; Prof. Amnon Albeck, Rector; Zohar Yinon, CEO; and the rest of the management team for their support in making these projects a success,” he said.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Collaboration and Growth
As he prepares to step away from his role, Prof. Lewenstein reflected on the relationships he and his team have built with partners from around the globe and the many agreements that have been signed between Bar-Ilan and some of the top universities worldwide. “None of this would have been possible without the collaboration of faculty members and administrative staff. They’ve volunteered their time and expertise because they believe in what we’re doing, and I’m incredibly grateful for their support,” he expressed.
“From the moment I stepped into this role, my goal was to build up the things that didn’t exist,” said Prof. Lewenstein, emphasizing his commitment to innovation. “I’d like to believe I’ve achieved everything I set out to do.” In closing, he offered a hopeful message for the future: “Even though it seems like we’ve made great strides, I believe we’re just getting started. There’s still so much to do, and I encourage the next generation of leaders to bring their ideas forward and push these now-established developments even further.”
Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, Bar-Ilan University’s Deputy President, presents Kosovo’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, with a gift from Bar-Ilan University
Prof. Moshe Lewenstein’s tenure as Bar-Ilan University’s Deputy President has been marked by visionary leadership and a deep commitment to fostering innovation. His achievements in establishing the International School, the Youth Center, and the Business Intelligence system have not only enriched the university but have also created a legacy that will benefit future generations. As he embarks on the next chapter of his career in Bar-Ilan’s Computer Science Department, his original home at the university, and continues his role with the Youth Center, the impact of his work will undoubtedly continue to resonate throughout the institution and beyond.
Read about Prof. Moshe Lewenstein’s background here.
