Israeli Educators Donate Kidneys to Embody Values of Leadership and Solidarity

Following the October 7 conflict, six Israeli educators from diverse backgrounds have each chosen to donate a kidney to strangers, demonstrating their commitment to values of responsibility, mutual support, and love for others. Among them is Merav Rubin Ben Menachem, principal of the Naamat Technological High School in Hadera, who was inspired to act after all four of her children were drafted and she witnessed the deepening societal divisions and grief in Israel. She views kidney donation as a personal expression of the educational values she imparts daily, emphasizing that leadership extends beyond the classroom.

Dubi Arbel, principal of Mityarim Branco Weiss School in Ra'anana, made his decision after teaching a class on organ donation and reflecting on the death of a close neighbor, Golani soldier Staff Sergeant Ofir Yeruchin, who fell on October 9, 2023. Arbel stressed that educators must embody the values they teach, especially in moments of crisis. Similarly, Yoni Pasder, principal of Branco Weiss Keshet School in Mazkeret Batya, was motivated by his military reserve commander’s kidney donation journey and a family legacy of organ donor card commitment.

Einat Rubin, principal of Amit HaOfek School in Or Akiva, was moved to donate following the death of alumnus Staff Sergeant Matan Abergil, who sacrificed himself by shielding comrades from a grenade on October 7. She has since established a monthly community volunteering day at her school to promote giving and social responsibility. Amir Sandler, head of the Bnei Akiva Orot Yehuda Yeshiva, and Uriel Fisher, principal of Dvir School in Etzion, also connected their donations to their educational roles, viewing these acts as extensions of their lifelong commitment to teaching kindness and community.

Rachel Haber, chair of the "Gift of Life" association and a veteran educator, highlighted that about a quarter of living kidney donors in Israel come from the education sector, underscoring that education is a way of life. She praised these educators for continuing to teach through courageous personal example, especially during challenging times for Israeli society.

This wave of kidney donations by educators reflects a broader message that leadership and education are measured by actions that save lives and strengthen communal bonds. Their stories illustrate how deeply held values can translate into life-changing deeds beyond the classroom walls.