The goal of this class is to inspire participants to learn more about Israel. Participants will better understand the connection between Israel and the lives of all Jews, and will be exposed to the complexities of Israeli reality. Participants will also be exposed to the rich diversity of Israeli culture generally, and Jewish culture specifically. Finally, participants will better understand the differences between the US and Israel and the different viewpoints of Israelis and Americans.

To apply for the class, click here.

Itai Divinsky

Itai Divinsky comes from Ramat HaNegev, Colorado’s sister community in Israel. He previously served as General Community Director for Sheizaf , a new community in the Negev where religious and secular Israelis live together. As one of the central founders of Sheizaf, he focused on finding diverse and creative ways to further develop the
community in new directions. Itai previously also served the Ashalim community in a similar position, gaining much experience in the field of development in the Negev area.

Itai has also served as an instructor and teacher working with different age groups and sectors of Israeli society. He was a tour guide with The Israel Experience, leading North and South American youth in their first visit to Israel. Alongside community life, he spends time with his wife Mor and their three daughters, searching for new hidden trails in the beautiful Negev desert and now in Colorado and beyond.

Itai earned his M.A. in Geography and Environmental Development from Ben Gurion University of the Negev and has published papers in academic journals. Prior to his University studies, Itai served three years in the IDF as a tank commander in the Armored Corps. He still proudly serves in a reserve unit as a Company Sergeant Major
and Tank Commander.

In 2016, Itai joined a young leadership delegation from Ramat HaNegev, where he learned about American Jewish life. In 2019, Itai and his family moved to Denver where he currently serves the Jewish community as Shaliach (Senior Emissary) for JEWISHcolorado and The Jewish Agency for Israel.