The Herzog Center
for Jewish Identity
An educational center dedicated to strengthening connections across Israeli society through shared Jewish learning, meaningful dialogue, and the exploration of Jewish identity, values, and heritage
Who We Are
The Herzog Center is an educational center dedicated to strengthening connections across Israeli society through shared Jewish learning, meaningful dialogue, and the exploration of Jewish identity, values, and heritage.
At the heart of our work is a unique methodology that brings people together around Jewish and Israeli texts. Over decades of experience, we have seen that shared learning creates community. Through the study of texts, open dialogue, and meaningful encounters, participants explore questions of identity, belonging, and purpose while engaging with diverse perspectives and life experiences.
More than a learning experience, this process fosters lasting relationships and vibrant communities rooted in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and a deep connection to Jewish heritage and contemporary Israeli life.
As a Zionist organization, we are deeply rooted in Jewish tradition while embracing a diversity of perspectives. We see Jewish heritage as a shared legacy that belongs to all Jews and as a foundation for connection, meaning, and collective belonging.
Our Vision
We envision Jewish identity as a source of meaning, belonging, and connection at the personal, family, community, and national levels.
We strive for an Israeli society that is both diverse and deeply connected - one in which a shared engagement with Jewish identity, heritage, and values strengthens mutual understanding, social cohesion, and collective resilience.
Our Activities
In-Depth Learning Programs
Multi-session study programs led by leading scholars, educators, and professionals.
Beit Midrash Learning Communities
Pluralistic learning groups centered around Jewish and Israeli texts and contemporary questions of identity.
Leadership & Social Impact Programs
Programs that develop community leaders and support social entrepreneurship initiatives.
Workshops & Educational Journeys
Facilitated experiences that encourage personal growth, reflection, and group engagement.
Seminars & Cultural Events
Community gatherings and cultural programs inspired by the Jewish calendar and Jewish life.
Our Leadership
Sarah Evron
Chair of the Board
Sarah Evron serves as Secretary General of the Religious Kibbutz Movement. Prior to assuming this role, she was Executive Director of the Yaacov Herzog Center. Earlier in her career, she served as Executive Director of Education for the Jerusalem Municipality, where she led the development and implementation of a five-year strategic plan for the city’s schools.
Sarah has also served as Principal of the Religious Kibbutz High School in Yavne and as Community Manager of Kibbutz Saad. A passionate advocate for women's leadership and religious engagement, she was among the founders of women's prayer groups that enable women to read from the Torah, celebrate Bat Mitzvah ceremonies, and deepen their connection to Jewish tradition through meaningful religious experiences.
She holds an MBA from the College of Management Academic Studies and an MA in Bible Studies from Bar-Ilan University. Sarah lives in Kibbutz Saad.
Yael Belenky
CEO
When Yael made Aliyah from Ukraine in 2011, Kibbutz Ein Tzurim became her first home in Israel. Returning to the place where her Israeli journey began, she joined the Herzog Center team after eight years at ITIM, where she served as Director of Giyur K’Halacha, an independent Orthodox conversion court network.
Yael holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the Odessa State Academy of Law and a second master’s degree in Political Communication from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
She is married to Yitzhak, a mother of two, and lives in Efrat.
