Dear Friends and Supporters,
It is with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility that I write to you as the newly appointed President and CEO of the Jerusalem Peace Institute (JPI). I’m honored to step into this role at a time of immense possibility and positive change for our organization. JPI has long been a beacon of hope – fostering constructive dialogue, understanding, and peace in a region where such values are profoundly needed. Our mission remains unchanged, but our strategy for achieving it is evolving as we embark on an exciting new chapter.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to one of our co-founders, Dr. Saliba Sarsar, who has graciously stepped down from his respective role as President of JPI to bring fresh leadership to the organization. We are fortunate that Dr. Sarsar will remain on the board, continuing to serve our mission with the same passion and commitment that has guided us from the beginning.
I would also like to welcome Dr. Carole Monica C. Burnett as our new Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Outreach. Dr. Burnett has been dedicated and tireless in her efforts since the establishment of JPI, and we are excited to have her as part of our leadership team.
This new change in leadership is designed to strengthen the foundation of our organization, allowing us to expand our reach and deepen our influence in local, national, and global communities. With this shift, we aim to sharpen our focus on key initiatives, ensuring that we continue to lead efforts to bridge divides and build a future grounded in peace, justice, and mutual respect.
One of the immediate priorities in this period of transformation is the enhancement of our digital presence and programming. We’re working diligently to revamp and expand our website, ensuring that it becomes a more accessible and robust platform for information, engagement, and action. Moreover, we are working on expanding our programming, allowing us to share more stories and knowledge of Jerusalem, connect with a broader audience, and provide valuable resources to those who share our vision of peace in Jerusalem and beyond.
In addition to strengthening our leadership team, digital platform, and programming, we are expanding our Board of Directors and International Advisory Board. By bringing together a more diverse group of leaders, advocates, and experts, we are positioning JPI to reach new heights. Our expanded boards will enable us to draw on a wider range of expertise and perspectives, as well as ensure that we remain innovative, inclusive, and effective in all that we do.
Our vision remains the same: Jerusalem is a special city, significant to Palestinians and Israelis – Muslims, Jews, Christians, and others. We’ll continue to highlight Jerusalem as humanity’s shared gift and as central for a just peace. I’m grateful for your commitment to our cause and continued support. Together, we will navigate this exciting new phase, inspired by the belief that peace is possible and that each of us has a role to play in making it a reality. I look forward to the journey ahead and to working alongside each of you as we advance the mission of JPI.
With appreciation and peace,
Mohamed K. Ghumrawi, Ph.D.
President/CEO, Jerusalem Peace Institute