Drexel University Officials Sign Exchange Agreements with Israeli Institutions

Drexel University Interim President C.R. “Chuck” Pennoni and Provost Mark Greenberg recently led a delegation of University officials to sign formal partnerships with several Israeli institutions and explore new opportunities for collaboration between the schools. Drexel officials met with representatives from Israel Institute of Technology, Ben Gurion University, Hebrew University and Al Quds University (East Jerusalem) and Hadassah College.“The overarching goal of the trip was to strengthen newly established partnerships with a few key universities and explore other fruitful relationships with schools in the region,” said Julie Mostov, associate vice provost for international programs and a member of the delegation. Although Drexel faculty and students are already working closely with colleagues in Israel, the recent visit established formal agreements between the University, Israel Institute of Technology, Ben Gurion University and Hebrew University. In addition to formal agreements, Drexel students will be able to participate in student exchange programs and study abroad programs beginning in Fall 2010. Students from Ben Gurion University will also spend time studying at Drexel’s nationally ranked MBA program. Several Drexel faculty members are working with colleagues at the Israel Institute of Technology on projects ranging from tissue engineering to computer science. Drexel and Hebrew University faculty are exploring the creation of a research enterprise agreement to move stem-cell tissue engineering from laboratory experiments to life-saving innovations.Drexel’s Steinbright Career Development Center also offers cooperative education opportunities with companies in Israel. Known as “co-op,” the University’s unique cooperative education program places students in professional positions with employers in their field of study. Drexel officials will detail the new partnerships and agreements from the trip during an April 14, 2010 presentation with special guest Daniel Kutner, Consul General of Israel to the Mid-Atlantic RegionNews Media Contact:Noah Cohen, Office of University Relations 215-895-2705, 267-228-5599 (cell) or noah.cohen@drexel.edu