The people behind the Hub.
Dr. Benji Davis
An American-born Israeli scholar, educator, and thought leader whose expertise bridges research and practice in Israel education. He serves as Assistant Professor of Jewish Education at Yeshiva University's Azrieli Graduate School and was most recently Head of Israel Education at Camp Yavneh and the 2024–2025 Israel Institute Teaching and Research Fellow at George Mason University.
His work spans classrooms and communities across North America and Israel — from middle school to doctoral students, gap-year and short-term participants, campers, and professionals and donors across religious and political spectrums. His research and writing have been published in leading academic journals and Jewish media outlets.
He has worked as a professional and consultant across Birthright Israel, Masa Israel Journey, OpenDor Media, Nefesh B'Nefesh, RootOne, the Z3 Project, Hillel International, and Makom. In 2024, he received the Harold Wechsler Award for Emerging Scholars from the Network for Research in Jewish Education (NRJE). He is a member of the Birthright Israel International Education Committee and a fellow at the Center for Jewish Peoplehood Education.
Through the Hub, Benji and his network help individuals and organizations design and lead Israel education rooted in their Jewish "why" — advancing a shared vision of a connected and inspired Jewish people.
Shalom Orzach
A seasoned educator and strategic mentor with decades of experience in Israel education and Jewish learning. His expertise spans curriculum development, educational leadership, and innovative pedagogical approaches that connect learners to their Jewish identity and Israel.
Throughout his career, Shalom has helped diverse institutions develop comprehensive Israel education programs that resonate with learners across backgrounds and age groups, emphasizing personal connection and meaningful engagement with Israel's history, culture, and contemporary significance.
As a strategic mentor, he supports emerging educators and established institutions in refining their approach — aligning Israel education initiatives with broader educational missions and community values. His philosophy centers on the belief that effective Israel education must be both intellectually rigorous and emotionally engaging.