Cleveland State University President Ronald M. Berkman and Professor David Faraggi, rector at the University of Haifa in Israel, signed a memorandum of understanding on August 27. The agreement calls for each university to designate programs that will connect students and faculty across the two institutions.

The relationship between CSU and the University of Haifa was established during a May 2014 trip to Israel by President Berkman. He accompanied CSU Executive MBA students on their International Study Tour, led by Dr. Elad Granot, assistant dean for MBA programs. Following the trip, which included meetings with Israeli universities, CSU identified the University of Haifa as its first potential Israeli partner.

The University of Haifa is the largest comprehensive research university in Israel’s northern region and academic home to a community of students that mirrors Israeli society.

“CSU and the University of Haifa share many similarities as urban universities with diverse students and a commitment to providing a global experience,” President Berkman said. “Cleveland also includes a large and engaged Jewish community. Our students and faculty will gain access to a university deeply rooted in Israel’s innovation-driven economy and we offer access to exceptional resources in business, urban affairs, natural sciences, health care and biotechnology,”

The signing ceremony at CSU was part of a two-day visit by Professor Faraggi, which also included meetings with college deans and community leaders.