BOG 2025: 22nd Constantiner Prize Awarded

The 2025 Dr. Jaime Constantiner Prize in Jewish Education was awarded to the Amal “Amirim” School in a warm ceremony during TAU’s Board of Governors Meeting. The choice of awardee was particularly meaningful, as Amirim is in Ofakim, a Gaza-border city which was deeply affected by the Oct. 7 attacks and the ensuing war. 

The Constantiner Prize recognizes a person or an organization bringing Jewish traditions and texts into the 21st century, especially through educational channels. Its namesake, the late Dr. Jaime Constantiner, a physician and educator himself, was a beloved leader of the Mexican Jewish community. His longtime support of Israel and Tel Aviv University inspired his family to create the Prize in his name. The award ceremony was attended by his son, Dr. Arturo Constantiner and Arturo’s wife Caren; professors from the Constantiner School of Education; educators from Amirim School; and most importantly, Amirim’s  talented student vocal group and its “Living Bridge” Project class.  

Bridging Jewish Cultures 

Amirim School is a multicultural organization which prioritizes social engagement and belonging to the State of Israel in all its diversity. One of its breakout programs is the “Living Bridge” class for seventh graders. Over the course of the class, students are in continuous contact with peers at an egalitarian congregation in New Jersey. In this way, they learn about Jewish life outside of Israel and help educate diaspora students about life in the Jewish state. 

Amirim further encourages community involvement through volunteering and integration of students from many backgrounds. It also prepares students for the future with programming related to science and technology, entrepreneurship, and creativity. 

Honoring Educators for Over Two Decades 

Dr. Jaime Constantiner was an important member of the global Jewish community and supported many Jewish educational projects and organizations throughout his life, especially in the diaspora. The Constantiner Prize honoring him celebrated its 22nd awards ceremony this year. To recognize this long-standing partnership, TAU gifted Dr. Arturo Constantiner a photo album documenting past winners. 

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Dr. Constantiner remembered his father and recognized the hard work and difficult position of educators in Israel. “Whenever you thank us for coming to Israel from abroad, I say, we are the ones who should be thanking you. You are the ones putting your lives, your kids, everything on the line for all the Jewish people.”