Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has announced it will increase its investment in Israeli government-backed bonds by $5 million, bringing its total holdings to $8.2 million. This move makes FAU the university with the largest Israel Bonds portfolio worldwide, surpassing its previous holdings of $3.2 million through the FAU Foundation.
The announcement was made by FAU President Adam Hasner at the Israel Bonds Unity for Israel Reception, an event attended by representatives from 14 local synagogues and members of Israel Bonds Palm Beach. Hasner described the decision as both a financial strategy and a gesture of support.
“This is a sound financial decision — but equally important, it is a statement of solidarity that reflects our vision for the future,” said Hasner. “As a leading university and a member of the South Florida community, we cannot ignore what is happening to Jewish students across the country, and we are proud of the steps we are taking to become the safest and most welcoming university for Jewish life in America.”
Mark Ruben, Palm Beach executive director of Israel Bonds, commented on the partnership between FAU and Israel Bonds: “For over 35 years, I’ve had the privilege of representing Israel Bonds in working with Florida Atlantic University. Together with our local Jewish community, we’ve raised millions in Israel Bonds, purchased and donated to the university in support of the establishment of Holocaust and Judaic Studies Chairs. Under President Adam Hasner’s leadership, we’ve deepened this partnership even further, making FAU the largest holder of Israel Bonds of any university in the world.”
The practice is authorized under Florida law and follows similar actions taken recently by other state entities such as Palm Beach County.
David Kian, interim chief executive officer at Florida Atlantic University Foundation Inc., emphasized how these investments have benefited FAU: “The FAU Foundation’s longstanding investment in Israel Bonds has generated secure and reliable revenue to support the university for many years. The bonds have proven to be an important and durable component of our diversified portfolio.”
