The Wexner Heritage Foundation is training Israelis here in Chicago developing Israeli Leadership. Dr. Liat Amar Arran will be at LSDS this Saturday after our services and kiddush to talk about this effort. If you are interested in Israel's future, then you will want to learn about this program.

Dr. Liat Amar Arran is the Head of the Western Negev Rehabilitation and Development Division at the Jewish Agency, supporting long-term recovery after October 7. Previously, Liat founded a rehabilitation home for women with eating disorders, initiated the Shared Language program at The Hebrew University, and led the Living Together task force. Liat served as a Jewish Agency emissary in Russia, the U.S., and South Africa. She holds a PhD in Organizational and Social Psychology and a PhD in Mizrahi-Arab Relations. Liat lives in Eliav with her husband and four sons.

Liat wants to launch a community integration program for internally displaced Israelis. Liat proposes a program inspired by Israel’s experience in immigrant absorption, adapted to the internal challenge of displacement. The initiative would combine personal support, community rebuilding, emotional care, and the creation of new living infrastructures anchored in a national and systemic approach.

Following October 7, Liat led the Jewish Agency’s response in the South. She knew this was not just another assignment, but a mission rooted in deep familiarity with the field, systemic understanding, and an ability to lead with adaptability and emotional clarity in a rapidly shifting reality. Two weeks into the war, Liat established the Western Negev Rehabilitation and Development Division, championing a shift toward trust-based leadership, decentralization, local ownership, and genuine partnership.

If you are a new visitor to Lake Shore Drive Synagogue, we ask that all guests fill out our visitor security form at least one day in advance of your visit. Please contact the office with any questions.

There is no fee to attend, but please RSVP by November 14.