After six impactful years, Yael Toledano bids farewell to her role as the Director of International Relations at Bar-Ilan University’s International School. Throughout her tenure, Toledano has been instrumental in cultivating relationships and developing collaborations with academic institutions around the globe, significantly enhancing BIU’s international standing.
Yael Toledano (middle) with Israel’s President Isaac Hertzog and his wife, Michal, during their visit to Bar-Ilan University
Reflecting on her time at the university, Toledano expressed, “Bar-Ilan has been my professional home for nearly six years. I am leaving a position that I truly cherish. This role has evolved, gaining depth and vibrancy, resonating with the heartfelt aspirations of everyone in the Bar-Ilan community—both the administrative and research teams—making this institution shine brightly.”
Toledano’s responsibilities included managing foreign visits, organizing high-profile events, and building sustainable partnerships with diplomatic representatives and social organizations. Her participation helped to foster significant collaborations, elevating BIU’s profile on the international stage.
Yael Toledano in her official capacity (left) and celebrating at the International School’s end-of-year party (right)
“During my time here, I had the privilege of working alongside inspiring people of action who share a profound connection to our country, society, and humanity,” she said. “I was delighted to showcase their remarkable work to diplomats and international organizations, making them eager to return to our community time and again.”L-R: Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of BIU’s International School; Yael Toledano, International Relations Director, Dr. Barbara Seimetz, head of the Department of Science and Environment at the German Embassy in Israel, and Lara Klaehn, Yael’s assistant at the International School and a recent Bar-Ilan University graduate.
Prof. Arie Zaban, President of Bar-Ilan University, commended Toledano’s contributions, stating, “Yael Toledano has been pivotal in establishing and strengthening relationships with ambassadors and other senior diplomats as well as with academic institutions worldwide. Her efforts have significantly enhanced Bar-Ilan University’s global standing.”
He added that her event management skills shone through in organizing high-profile gatherings, such as the Diplomats’ Conference, where her commitment to fostering diplomatic ties was evident.
“In her role as Director of International Relations, Yael has demonstrated exceptional skill in fostering collaborations that elevate our university’s profile on the international stage. Her coordination of VIP visits ensured that dignitaries engaged meaningfully with our deans, renowned researchers, and leading professors. The lasting impressions she created are a testament to her dedication and professionalism,” he said.
Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of BIU’s International School, shared insights from their long-standing collaboration. “Yael is a powerhouse who has significantly enhanced diplomatic and academic connections at Bar-Ilan University,” he said. “She has instigated a shift in mindset among the university’s senior officials, making a lasting impact on the atmosphere and the way visitors interact with our staff.”
L-R: Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of BIU’s International School; Yael Toledano, International Relations Director, Dr. Barbara Seimetz, head of the Department of Science and Environment at the German Embassy in Israel, and Lara Klaehn, Yael’s assistant at the International School and a recent Bar-Ilan University graduate
“In addition to all of this, Yael is an exemplary colleague. She is always willing to help others and play a key role in the leadership of the International School. She spearheaded significant projects while also showing a warm commitment to new immigrants, particularly those from France, for whom she holds a special place in her heart (as a French-Israeli),” he said.
Yael Toledano with Bahrain’s first-ever envoy to Israel, H.E. Khaled Yousif al-Jalahma, Ambassador of Bahrain, who visited Bar-Ilan University in February 2022 soon after Bahrain signed the historic science and tech agreement with Israel
Toledano’s legacy will continue as she embarks on a new journey with the Jewish Agency’s Israel Experience, where she will manage the division for long-term programs for young Jews from the diaspora.
“As I move forward, I will carry with me a wealth of experiences: achievements, successes, challenges, spirited debates, insights, and, most importantly, cherished friendships,” she remarked.
Yael Toledano, Director of International Relations, and Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, Bar-Ilan University’s Deputy President, sightseeing in Bahrain during their official visit to the country
Her departure leaves a significant void at Bar-Ilan University, but her influence and the relationships she fostered will undoubtedly continue. As the Bar-Ilan community bids farewell to Yael Toledano, her contributions will be remembered, and her future endeavors are eagerly anticipated.
“Yael has undeniably left her mark on Bar-Ilan University and the International School, a legacy that will endure!” said Dahan.
Celebrating Diwali with International School colleagues. L-R: Zvi Swisa, Neta Moallem, Tal Koor, Yael Toledano, Ofer Dahan (back), Hadar Giat, and Merav Gilad. BIU’s International School hosts annual cultural celebrations for international students who wish to share their culture with other BIU students.
If you would like to visit Bar-Ilan University or arrange an academic visit to your country and university, please email the International School’s International Relations and Academic Visits Department at [email protected] or call +972-3-738-4720.
Following the Bahraini Ambassador’s visit to Bar-Ilan University, Yael Toledano (far right) joined her colleagues on a trip to Bahrain to meet with their counterparts at academic institutions. This was one of many reciprocal trips to various countries attended by Bar-Ilan University’s International School representatives
