NEW YORK, January 28, 2026 — Thirty student leaders beyond the Jewish faith recently returned from Jewish National Fund-USA’s Caravan for Democracy Student Leadership Mission to Israel, the most effective program fostering understanding and allyship with Jewish and pro-Israel students on U.S. college campuses.
The fully subsidized experience inspires lifelong Zionist identity in non-Jewish student leaders and equips attendees with the confidence to return to their universities to advocate for informed, constructive dialogue about Israel and the Middle East. Students meet with Israelis of all backgrounds, visit historical Christian and Jewish sites, and engage in honest conversations about Israel’s complexities, challenges, and triumphs, leaving them with a deeper appreciation of the country’s history, nuances, and positive role in the world.
The action-packed itinerary took students from the Sea of Galilee to Tel Aviv, Haifa to Jerusalem, and down to the Negev Desert. Along the way, they encountered Jewish, Arab, Christian, Druze, and Ethiopian Israelis, gaining insights into the vibrant and multifaceted fabric of Israeli society.
“One of the most surprising parts was how joyful and kind everyone was,” said Polly Johnston, who attends the University of Kansas. “I think in the United States, we are given this perception that everyone is the same in Israel, and that’s not the case at all. Everyone has their own opinions and comes from different backgrounds, and they’re not afraid to tell you, which is absolutely wonderful.”
Christian Caravan for Democracy Students Getting Baptized in the Jordan River
For many, the experience also offered a deeply personal connection to faith and heritage. Several Christian participants chose to be baptized in the Jordan River, and the group visited significant Christian sites, from the Via Dolorosa to the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, one of the holiest Christian sites outside the Vatican.
Beyond cultural encounters, students engaged with Israel’s present-day realities. A jeep tour along the Lebanese border offered a sobering look at the country’s security challenges. At the Peres Center for Peace & Innovation, they witnessed Israel’s drive to build a better future. A lecture from Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesman, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jonathan Conricus explored Israel’s global image and the difficult balance between morality, security, and diplomacy.
“As a devout Christian, I wanted to both see where my faith comes from and better understand the Jewish side of the Israel-Hamas war,” said Andrew Norton, a student at the University of New Mexico. “I’ve seen new perspectives that will help guide the conversations I have back home towards a reality that offers peace, safety, and respect for Jewish students, the Jewish People, and the country of Israel.”
Some moments were deeply emotional. At Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, students heard from the grandson of two hostages, one of whom was killed in captivity. At the Nova Music Festival Memorial Site, they met a mother whose daughter was murdered on October 7. And at Yad Vashem, the world’s preeminent Holocaust remembrance center, they reflected on the significance of Israel as a refuge and homeland.
Caravan students outside the Peres Center for Peace & Innovation
Now back on campuses, the Caravan for Democracy alumni have already made an impact, educating their peers and facilitating constructive dialogue about Israel and the Middle East, and were surprised to discover that many classmates weren’t even aware of the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks.
“While it shocked me people had absolutely no clue what I was discussing regarding October 7, it showed me how necessary programs like this are in educating and motivating students to engage in meaningful discourse, sharing their firsthand experiences in Israel, and advocating for the Jewish voices around them,” said Texas Tech student Mikayla Koppy. “I am so thankful to have experienced this program and Israel firsthand. My life will forever be changed.”
In addition to Caravan for Democracy, Jewish National Fund-USA is the largest provider of Israel engagement programs in the U.S., linking learning, travel, and leadership so youth, families, and adults stay connected to the land and people of Israel for life.
The next Caravan for Democracy mission is taking place December 26, 2026 - January 5, 2027. To learn more, visit jnf.org/caravan.
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About Jewish National Fund-USA
Jewish National Fund-USA is building a strong and vibrant future for the land and people of Israel. Through its One Million Voices for Israel campaign, the organization unites supporters nationwide around its holistic approach to supporting individuals, families, communities, and regions in Israel's North and South, known as circles of impact. Leveraging its 125 years of impact, Jewish National Fund-USA is developing the most livable towns and cities in frontier communities to attract 800,000 new residents; creating a lifelong continuum of Zionist education through travel, learning, and leadership; and establishing the World Zionist Village in Be'er Sheva, a global hub for connection and peoplehood. With donor recognition and legacy giving at its core, supporters ensure their values and impact endure—yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Learn more at jnf.org.
