"The Shapiro Family Fellowship opened my eyes to the diversity of culture and responsibility that we share as modern Jews in the diaspora. I have never been so tired, learned so much or ate so well. I am incredibly thankful and honored by having been awarded the Fellowship. I will treasure my memories of the trip as well as the relationships that came out of it."--Paul Lucas

"The SFF trip opened my eyes to the subtleties and complexities of Israeli society. Before the SFF trip, I understood Israel on a very cerebral, superficial level, and my connection to it had more to do with its historical significance to the Jewish people than with anything else. But now Israel has become a living, breathing place for me, a place that, as an embodiment of humanity, is beautiful and flawed at the same time. Israel is real to me in a way it never was. Before, Israel was just a place that mattered. But now, it has become a place that I love."—Ruvym Gilman 

"Traveling in Israel with SFF was intense, challenging, thought-provoking and immensely rewarding.  We were exposed to multiple sectors of Israeli society, giving us insights into Israel that few trips can offer.  It was a great group with thoughtful, smart educators, and I returned with renewed energy and interest in all things Israel and Jewish.  I absolutely loved it." --Sara Hahn

"The Shapiro Fellowship was a non-stop journey through the various facets that make up Israeli & Jewish society and culture. Everyday we were dusting off layer after layer, becoming cultural anthropologists and sociologists making new discoveries. It was very exciting to couple that educational experience with professional development getting to meet with specialists in our respective fields. Thank you for such an amazing program." --Jesse Ash