HOLLYWOOD, Fla., November 5, 2025 — Nearly 400 college students from across the United States were among a delegation of 3,000 Zionists who united for Israel’s future at Jewish National Fund-USA’s sold-out Global Conference for Israel, one of the world’s premier gatherings for philanthropy, advocacy, and Zionist engagement. At a time of rising antisemitism, especially on college campuses, these students at the conference’s College Summit stepped up as future Jewish leaders while learning how the organization has been rebuilding Israel’s South and reimagining its North.
Throughout the conference, held at The Diplomat Hotel in Hollywood, Fla., from October 23-26, 2025, the students participated in workshops on confronting antisemitism, harnessing the power of social media to advocate for Israel, and learning from a coalition of non-Jewish allies. They also enjoyed exclusive networking opportunities with young professionals from Jewish National Fund-USA’s JNFuture community of philanthropists aged 22-40, as well as a special Shabbat dinner, a spirited Saturday night comedy show, and an afterparty.”
Several students also shared their personal stories with the crowd, from tales of Jew-hatred on campus to the incredible programs they are participating in with support from Jewish National Fund-USA.
“It was an incredible experience, especially in the wake of October 7,” said Eliana Birman of her experience on Jewish National Fund-USA’s Alternative Winter Break in Israel. “We did a lot of volunteering, and it was incredibly meaningful in a way I did not expect. Being able to come from America, volunteer, and meet people in different communities and hear their stories was really, really special.”
Students also participated in dozens of intimate breakout discussions, as well as powerful plenaries featuring keynote speakers that place them at the center of Jewish National Fund-USA’s story and impact. They also learned about cutting-edge work taking place in Israel, including projects focused on resilience, security, water innovation, agriculture, and housing development throughout Israel’s North and South, showcasing how Jewish National Fund-USA is making a real-world impact.
“What’s great about the College Summit at the Global Conference for Israel is that I can connect with a lot of my fellow peers and like-minded individuals, and I can grow my relationship to the Jewish network,” said student Max Kaplan. “It’s been a roller coaster since October 7, but we’ve gotten through it as community and will continue to thrive.”
Thanks to community building events like College Summit, the future of Jewish leadership is as bright as it’s ever been.
Next year’s Global Conference for Israel is taking place in San Diego, Calif. To learn more or to register, visit jnf.org/global.
###
About Jewish National Fund-USA
Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist engagement. The organization’s circle of impact extends beyond individual projects, generating a ripple effect that drives population growth and economic development in Israel’s north and south. From developing new communities in the Negev and Galilee to advancing environmental sustainability, supporting people with disabilities, preserving heritage sites, and connecting the next generation to Israel, Jewish National Fund-USA’s strategic approach ensures every initiative strengthens the fabric of Israeli society. The organization also operates the fully accredited Alexander Muss High School in Israel, offering an immersive study-abroad experience driven by academic excellence. Learn more at jnf.org.
