Einstein’s Dream Fulfilled: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem at 100

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem opened in 1925 as the first university in the pre-State period, some 23 years before the establishment of independent Israel. Today, it stands as the country’s foremost centre of advanced learning and research. Its illustrious founders include Freud, Buber, Einstein, Weizmann, and Ahad Ha’am.

The first Board of Governors, convened shortly after the formal opening ceremony, featured prominent figures such as James de Rothschild, Harry Sacher, Sir Herbert Samuel, and Sir Alfred Mond. Remarkably, about a third of the Board members were British, underscoring the deep connection between Britain’s Jewish community, the Zionist movement, and the establishment of the University. The Hebrew University met the intellectual and vocational needs of the new State. Nearly a century later, we continue to marvel at the foresight of these visionaries, witnessing the realisation of their aspirations while upholding their extraordinary legacy.

The British Friends of the Hebrew University (BFHU), established in 1926—just one year after the University was founded—have proudly supported the University’s academic and research excellence ever since.

In June 2025, the Hebrew University will celebrate its 100th anniversary—a centenary of remarkable innovation, global collaboration, and groundbreaking solutions to many of the world’s most pressing challenges. In 2026, BFHU will mark its own centenary. To honour these milestones, BFHU CEO Nigel Salomon will reflect on the University’s remarkable journey over the past century, highlight the enduring British connection, and share some of the plans for the next 100 years.

Nigel Salomon is the Chief Executive of the British Friends of the Hebrew University (BFHU), part of a global network of 30 organisations supporting the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. For 15 years, Nigel has led UK fundraising efforts, and together with a small professional team, has raised the University’s profile through events, supporting student exchange programs, and collaborating with the UK’s leading universities. The charity serves as the key link between the University and British donors. Nigel oversees the charity’s strategy, which aims to ensure the Hebrew University remains Israel’s leading centre of academic and research excellence.

Before joining BFHU, Nigel’s career was primarily spent in international telecommunications holding senior sales and marketing roles in major global corporations travelling extensively overseas.

Born in Birmingham and raised in Cardiff, Nigel later moved to London. He spent a gap year in Israel in the 1970s, followed by another year working with Hanoar Hatzioni.