In the Israel of the early 1990s, the idea of establishing a private university sounded like a fantasy. But Prof. Uriel Reichman believed it was not only possible, but essential to reshape the landscape of Israeli higher education. Today, 31 years later, Reichman University is a symbol of academic excellence, modern Zionism, and social entrepreneurship — a living testament to the power of a single individual with a compelling vision and a profound sense of public mission.
When he founded the university in Herzliya, on the ruins of an abandoned military base, Prof. Reichman faced a fair amount of criticism and even ridicule. “People told me I needed either a vacation or a psychologist,” he recalls. Yet in the face of skepticism, he stood firm in his conviction that Israel needed an independent, non-bureaucratic academic institution that would cultivate the next generation of leaders of Israeli society. “There was a closed, elitist approach in the higher education system, which undermined social mobility. Many were forced to study abroad. I wanted to change that from the ground up,” says Prof. Reichman.
Since its establishment, Reichman University has charted a unique course that combines academic excellence with Zionist values and social responsibility. From the outset, and driven by a deep commitment to Israeli society, the university established dedicated admissions tracks for candidates with a record of meaningful contribution to society — including veterans and members of the security forces.
For some 25 years, the university has also served as a welcoming home for Diaspora Jews, operating the largest international school in Israel — the Raphael Recanati International School — which attracts students from over 90 countries. Many graduates choose to make aliyah upon completing their studies.
It’s no surprise that throughout the Iron Swords War, thousands of Reichman students have enlisted in the reserves. “50 percent of our students mobilized for reserve duty — more than at any other university. We made the decision to support them in making up their studies, whatever it takes, by any means necessary,” says Prof. Reichman. “Some are only now completing rehabilitation from their injuries, and we are providing close, ongoing support to help them return to full academic life. I am proud of the university administration and faculty, who have stood by these students and worked around the clock to assist them in every way possible.”
But Prof. Reichman does not stop striving for progress. In response to the acute shortage of physicians in Israel, the university launched the Dina Recanati School of Medicine this year, welcoming 82 students — some of whom returned from abroad to pursue their medical education in Israel.
As for the university’s future, Prof. Reichman says that “the university will continue to serve as an international center of Jewish life, grounded in national-liberal values.” Looking back, he reflects, “Many of those who dismissed the idea, which sounded like a fantasy 31 years ago, are now among the institution’s strongest supporters.”
Ultimately, Prof. Reichman concludes, “We are a non-profit institution. Our only dividend is the contribution our graduates make to Israeli society.”
In recognition of his many years of contribution to Israeli society — through education, entrepreneurship, and driving change — Prof. Uriel Reichman will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Jerusalem Post’s upcoming Annual Conference. This honor celebrates not only the power of one individual to effect change, but also his impact on Israeli society through faith, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.