World ORT Recognizes Historic Leadership Transition at First Gathering of Unified Organization

World ORT has held its annual meeting in Vilnius, Lithuania, convening senior professionals and key lay leaders from across its global network.

The gathering , between May 3 and 7, marked the organization’s first major convening as a unified global entity following the March 2026 merger of World ORT and ORT America and formally recognized a leadership transition. Michael Perlmuter, Chair of ORT America, and Robert Grey, Chair of World ORT, concluded their tenures, and Jon Levine was recognized as Board Chair of a unified World ORT.

The transition reflects years of deliberate planning and a shared commitment to positioning the organization for its next chapter.

Two Leaders, One Legacy

Michael Perlmuter and Robert Grey (pictured above with Dr. Louanne Smolin, Executive Committee Board member, World ORT; Simon Alberga, Vice-President and Secretary, World ORT; and Dov Ben-Shimon, Chief Executive Officer, World ORT) played defining roles in shaping ORT’s modern evolution, guiding the organization through periods of growth and complexity and, ultimately, toward unification.

Their leadership laid the groundwork for a more aligned global organization and ensured continuity during a critical period of change.

“Michael and Bob provided steady, principled leadership at a pivotal time for our organization,” said Dov Ben-Shimon, CEO of World ORT.

“Their governance helped make the merger of World ORT and ORT America both possible and successful. Because of their work, we are well positioned for what comes next.”

Jon Levine speaks at the World ORT COR meeting in Lithuania
Board Chair Jon Levine addresses attendees of the 2026 Council of Representatives Meeting in Vilnius

Jon Levine Assumes the Role of Board Chair

As Board Chair, Jon Levine will focus on governance, strategic alignment, and long-‑term stewardship as World ORT begins its first chapter as a unified global organization.

He will work in close partnership with Ben-‑Shimon as the organization advances its mission worldwide.

“World ORT enters this next chapter with a strong foundation, thanks to the leadership of Michael and Bob,” said Jon Levine, Board Chair of World ORT.

“I’m honored to take on this role and look forward to strengthening impact across the global network.”

The Work Continues

The merger that united World ORT and ORT America was driven by the communities the network serves. Each year, World ORT impacts the lives of 80,000 students and 200,000 beneficiaries across five continents, advancing access to high‑quality education rooted in shared Jewish and human values.

From classrooms to communities facing poverty, displacement, or limited educational access, World ORT connects the Jewish world and strengthens the future through educational excellence, leadership development, and innovative programming in robotics, STEM, vocational training, and entrepreneurship.

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About World ORT 

Founded in 1880, World ORT is one of the world’s most far reaching Jewish educational networks, serving 80,000 students and 200,000 beneficiaries annually across more than 30 countries on five continents, with headquarters in New York and offices in London and Israel. Learn more online at www.ort.org 

MEDIA CONTACT 
Alex Galbinski, World ORT 
[email protected] 
+44 (0) 20 7446 8502

Summer Camp Provides Healing and Hope for War-Impacted Youth

A group of 20 Israeli teenagers affected by war have experienced a life-changing summer camp at World ORT’s Kfar Silver Youth Village, the Ronson Campus.

Designed specifically to help the students – aged 13 to 15 – deal with the trauma of the ongoing situation, the 10-day program provided a safe space for emotional healing, resilience building, and positive memory creation.

The camp – organized by World ORT Kadima Mada – took place thanks to the generous support of ORT Zurich donors, with 15 girls and five boys from across Israel having the opportunity to step away from their daily routines to engage in therapeutic activities, educational programs, and outdoor adventures. The students were selected due to their personal circumstances and the levels of trauma they have faced.

Albert Herz, President of ORT Zurich, attended the graduation ceremony with the children and their parents.

Liraz, one of the participants, described the transformation she experienced at Kfar Silver: “When I arrived at the camp I was the girl at the table alone at breakfast, sitting on the sidelines… without knowing anyone, just with hopes to meet someone, to make a friend.  

“During these nine days in the camp I met two friends, but more importantly I got to know myself.  I discovered traits that I had never seen in me and faced challenges that I had never previously been able to deal with.

“I realized I am capable and can handle anything that I set my mind to, and even if I don’t fit in with everyone, I fit with myself and that’s what’s important and what matters.  

“I stayed true to my principles and values the whole way. I focused on me and what makes me feel good. I left with life skills – it is one of the best things that I have ever done for myself.”

The program combined educational, cultural, physical, and social activities, all intentionally crafted to nurture resilience and foster a strong sense of identity.

Participants engaged in team-building exercises, self-defense training, cooperative games, and problem-solving activities that enhanced adaptability and persistence.

Physical wellness played a crucial role, with regular swimming sessions and exercise providing outlets for stress while supporting both mental and physical health. Cultural excursions deepened the experience, including visits to the Jewish Sports Museum in Ramat Gan and an immersive learning trip to Jerusalem.

A communal Shabbat dinner served as a pivotal moment, embodying community, tradition, and mutual support. This shared experience reinforced the students’ connection to something larger than themselves – a vital message for young people facing instability.

The camp concluded with a ceremony celebrating each child’s personal growth.

Dr. Moshe Leiba, Chief Pedagogy and R&D Officer at World ORT Kadima Mada in Israel, said: “This camp was more than a break from the challenges of the year, it was a safe space for our youth to heal, to rediscover joy, and to strengthen the bonds that will support them long after the summer ends. Watching their resilience grow through shared experiences has been deeply inspiring.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors whose support made this meaningful experience possible. Your commitment and care have given these young people not only moments of joy, but also the tools and confidence to move forward with hope. Thank you.”