Deepening ties and welcoming new friends across Europe
Marking its 65th anniversary this past year, the European Committee of the Weizmann Institute of Science (ECWIS)—chaired by Bob Drake—is celebrating a period of revitalization and growth, as its societies expand Weizmann’s presence and plant new seeds of connection across Europe.
In March 2025, the Swiss Society of Friends of the Weizmann Institute, chaired by Eric Stupp, hosted an exclusive gathering marking this milestone anniversary. Guests learned about the impact of Weizmann research and the foundation of the Institute’s work: collaboration among scientists, friends, and supporters who share a commitment to driving innovative science, advancing knowledge, and shaping a better future.
The Weizmann Young European Network, chaired by Dr. Alexandra Vallon-Eberhard, launched a series called Impulse Events to engage next-generation ECWIS supporters and encourage their curiosity, passion, and sense of purpose through advancing science.
In May 2025, the Danish and Swedish Societies of Friends each heralded an exciting new chapter by celebrating their recent restructuring with special lectures from Prof. Yohai Kaspi of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. The Danish Society is now under the leadership of Dan Moalem, and the Swedish Society is headed by its new chair, Robin Dangoor. Most recently, Marc Melviez was elected as Chair of the Belgian Society of Friends.
ECWIS welcomes our new lay leaders and applauds the societies’ renewed energy, evolving structures, and continued growth. We thank the former chairs—Prof. Ole Farver (Denmark), Lennart Schuss (Sweden), and Christian Hendboeg (Belgium)—for their many years of dedication, leadership, and support.
In September, the Embassy of Israel in Germany hosted an event aimed at strengthening the collaboration between leading German foundations and the Weizmann Institute. H.E. Ron Prosor, Israel’s Ambassador to Germany, opened the evening with heartfelt remarks emphasizing the critical role of the Institute and the importance of supporting its mission, particularly in these challenging times.
The event featured a compelling address by Weizmann President Prof. Alon Chen, who discussed the Iranian missile attack on the Weizmann campus in June, the ongoing recovery efforts, and the Institute’s vision for the future. His presentation sparked thoughtful dialogue and resonated strongly with the audience, which included Mrs. Dorothee Bär, Germany’s Federal Minister of Research, Technology and Space.
This gathering underscored the significance of diplomatic engagement and the potential of international collaboration to advance pioneering research for the future of humanity.