Steinhardt Museum Theatre Dedicated by Longtime Friends Norman and Joan Ciment

American supporters of TAU Norman and Joan Ciment came to campus this week to celebrate their naming of the theatre at the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History. The dedication honors the memory of both Ciments’ parents, Jack and Regina Ciment and Adolph and Anne Kratish. The two toured several floors of the museum, met with director Alon Sapan, and watched the video, “Sea and Me,” currently playing in their theatre. 

Norman and Joan have demonstrated a deep commitment to education in Israel, including funding education projects for Haredi students at Israeli institutions through their foundation, the Norman and Joan Ciment Foundation. Many of the students supported by them ended up in important roles in Israeli Intelligence, the Air Force, and software analysis. And, “we make sure each of our children had a year of education in Israel. Some of them have businesses here in Tel Aviv now,” says Norman. 

The Ciments have also given to the ANU museum of the Jewish People, formerly the Diaspora Museum, on TAU’s campus.  

“It was important to the Ciments to make this gift to our stunning museum to illuminate the path of philanthropy for their children, grandchildren and future generations, as we are all stewards of the natural history that preceded us,” says Jennifer Young, Vice President of the American Friends of TAU (AFTAU).    

              Norman and Joan Ciment watch "Sea and Me" in the theatre newly named in memory of their parents

Norman is considered the first Orthodox Jewish mayor of Miami Beach, Florida, and became involved with TAU during his time in office. He formed a friendship with the mayor of Tel Aviv, who encouraged him to contribute to the University.  

He and Joan have since become Legacy Society members of AFTAU, establishing a charitable gift annuity (CGA) in addition to their gifts to TAU’s museums. CGAs are an option for older donors to receive a fixed income in return for a contribution with the gift’s remainder used to support the University.