Denverite Boaz Meir Steps Into New Role as VP of Principal Gifts at American Friends of Bar-Ilan University

American Friends of Bar-Ilan University (AFBIU) is thrilled to welcome Boaz Meir as our new VP of Principal Gifts. Boaz brings a wealth of heart, experience, and dedication to this newly created role. Based in Denver, he joins the AFBIU senior team during an incredibly exciting chapter for Bar-Ilan University.

Bar-Ilan has officially grown into Israel’s second-largest research university and its fastest-growing major research institution. According to the Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics, student enrollment has surged by 30% over the last eight years. Nearly half of that growth is in advanced graduate and doctoral programs. Even as it grows as a powerhouse for science and innovation, Bar-Ilan remains deeply rooted in its heritage. It is the only university in Israel that requires Jewish studies for all students, ensuring that leadership and cutting-edge research go hand-in-hand with Jewish values and identity.

“I could not be more excited to join the team supporting Israel’s second-largest university,” Boaz said. “Bar-Ilan is a truly unique place. It doesn’t just drive academic excellence and power the ‘Start-Up Nation’ through groundbreaking research—it also serves as a moral and cultural anchor. By blending deep Jewish heritage with cutting-edge science, Bar-Ilan ensures Israel remains a ‘light unto the nations.’ I look forward to partnering with visionary philanthropists to fuel this critical mission and support the future of Israel.”

Boaz brings years of community building and leadership to AFBIU. He previously served as Chief Development Officer at Brothers for Life and held major leadership roles at Jewish National Fund-USA, including National Campaign Director of Muss High School and Executive Director of the Mountain States and Pacific Northwest Regions. His deep roots in the community also include impactful work with JEWISHcolorado and The Jewish Agency for Israel.

“Boaz brings a rare combination of strategic vision, deep relationship-building skills, and a proven track record of engaging philanthropists around meaningful causes,” said Jessica Feldan, CEO of AFBIU. “As Bar-Ilan University continues its remarkable growth and leadership in research, innovation, and Jewish values, Boaz’s experience and passion will be invaluable for AFBIU in expanding our philanthropic reach and advancing the university’s mission.”

For more information about AFBIU and to learn how to get involved, please feel free to contact Boaz at boaz.meir@afbiu.org.