Gerry Sue Arnold and her late husband Norman have left an indisputable mark on the College’s Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program. From their early belief in the program’s vision to the philanthropy that followed, the Arnolds have made the creation of the Arnold Center for Israel Studies possible through their Norman J. Arnold and Gerry Sue Arnold Foundation.
Their generosity began with a major gift to build the new center at the corner of Wentworth and Glebe streets. Formally established in 2018, the Arnold Center for Israel Studies is an opportunity to converge academic instruction, research, community outreach and experiential learning toward a better understanding of Israel, specifically the robust business practices affiliated with the region.
“The Center for Israel Studies will position the College of Charleston as a national leader for learning about and forming connections with Israeli business, high-tech and entrepreneurial ventures,” says Yaron Ayalon, director of the Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program. “It will be the nucleus of a network of teachers, scholars and professionals providing our students with opportunities they could find nowhere else.”
The Arnold Center for Israel Studies, directed by Joshua Shanes, will host speakers, support travel abroad and foster further collaborations between the College and the region with Israel. — Jenny Peck