The Yitzchak Shavit Center for
Resource Development, Jerusalem

February 20, 2011

Einar Shavit, son of Yitzchak Shavit, speaking at a ceremony honoring his father
at the Jewish Agency for Israel. On right: Natan Sharansky, Chair of the Executive
of the Jewish Agency and Jerry Silverman, CEO Jewish Federations of North America.

A moving dedication ceremony in Jerusalem by the Jewish Agency for Israel honored the lifetime of leadership and achievement of Yitzhak (Itzik) Shavit, Executive Vice Chairman, United Israel Appeal, Senior Vice President, The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), The Israel Education Fund.

Family members, esteemed Board members, dignitaries, community leaders, educators and friends gathered in the lobby of the newly named Shavit Center for Resource Development, as news of Shavit's passing (Feb 20, 2011) became known from his home in New York. Throughout his many years of service Shavit raised hundreds of millions of dollars for the State of Israel and the Jewish people, for the building and renovation of public buildings, as well as educational and social causes throughout the country. The ceremony was a show of gratitude for Shavit's contribution to the State of Israel and Israeli society, and was attended by family members and dignitaries from Israel and abroad.

Shavit's son, Einar Shavit, was present at the ceremony, along with his wife and children, and uncle, Yitzchak Shavit's brother. "Father, you were the salt of the earth", said Einar through tears, as he unveiled the building's sign.

In response to being told, before his death, that a building will be named in his honor, Shavit modestly exclaimed: "I am not worthy of such an honor".

Friends and admirers are invited to view part of the dedication ceremony and leave comments for the family here.


Photo Credit: Sasson Tiram

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