David Yaari.

Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life is pleased to announce the appointment of David Ya’ari as CEO of Hillel Israel.  Ya’ari, formerly David Borowich before Hebraicizing his name, assumes his new post following a successful career in the private sector and a history of social entrepreneurship in the Jewish and pro-Israel communities.

“Many young Israelis grow up lacking understanding of their Jewish heritage and the Jewish people. The role of Hillel Israel has never been more vital,” said Hillel Israel Board Chair Yossi Ciechanover. “We are confident that David’s background, experience, passion and vision will advance our collective mission and enhance the impact of Hillel’s work.”

Over the past five years, Hillel Israel has grown into a network of nine centers reaching tens of thousands of Jewish Israeli university students annually.

“We are incredibly proud of what Hillel Israel has achieved over the past decade under the inspired and spirited leadership of Rabbi Yossie Goldman,” said Wayne L. Firestone, Hillel’s international president.  “As we enter this next phase of Hillel Israel’s development, David brings exactly the right blend of passion and savvy to lead the organization forward and deepen the involvement of young Israelis in developing Israeli society and forging bonds with the Jewish world.”

Born and raised in the United States, Yaari immigrated to Israel after college and served in the Israel Defense Force. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Yeshiva University and a master’s degree in finance and marketing from New York University’s Stern School of Business. His career has included periods in strategic management consulting and hi-tech. He was responsible most recently for a portfolio of financial instruments at RAI Group, a private finance company.

In New York, David led several Jewish organizations. He was founder and honorary chairman of Dor Chadash, an organization that fosters ties between Israeli and American Jews through cultural exchange programs and events, and was a member of the Executive Committee of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York on which he served as co-chairman of its Israel and International Affairs Commission. 

“I am grateful for this opportunity because I recognize and appreciate the importance of Hillel Israel’s mission,” Ya’ari said. “I look forward to working with the superbly talented and committed staff and board members of Hillel Israel, as well as with our philanthropic, university, and community partners.  Working together, I am confident that Hillel Israel will indeed go from strength to strength.”

David and his wife Sivan live in Modi’in with their two children, Aaron and Emily.