Dear Weizmann Institute community,

At the Weizmann Institute of Science, freedom is more than a value. It is the foundation of discovery.

Every breakthrough begins with a question someone dared to ask, an idea given the opportunity to take shape, and people with different perspectives and backgrounds coming together to challenge one another. This is how science advances. This is how an exceptional academic community is built.

The attempt to expand the use of gender-segregated study programs in Israel's higher education system raises fundamental questions about the values that underpin academia and its future in Israel. At a time like this, we believe it is important to reaffirm the principles that define our community.

Academic freedom cannot exist in isolation. It depends on human freedom, and on every person's ability to learn, explore, teach, collaborate, and be evaluated solely on the basis of merit. When barriers are removed, when people and ideas can meet openly, and when an environment of equality and mutual respect is fostered, the conditions are ripe for new knowledge to emerge.

At the Weizmann Institute of Science, we are committed to preserving an environment that nurtures curiosity, freedom of thought, and collaboration. It is a place where researchers, students, faculty, and staff from every discipline and every background can contribute their full talents and perspectives. We do not see scientific excellence and an open, diverse community as separate ideals. We believe they are inseparable, each strengthening the other.

We will continue to nurture a community built on freedom, excellence, collaboration, and mutual respect. These are the values that enable science to push the boundaries of knowledge, and that enable people to realize their full potential. They have guided the Weizmann Institute of Science since its founding, and they will continue to guide us in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Prof. Alon Chen, President
Prof. Rony Paz, Vice President
Prof. Avishay Gal-Yam, Vice President for Development and Communications
Prof. Tony Futerman, Vice President for Innovation
Alon Weingarten, Vice President for Administration
Tamir Kadishi, CFO