What’s in a Name?

Tel Aviv University International to Become the Lowy International School   

Each year, Tel Aviv University International (TAU International) welcomes about 2,000 students from 100 countries to study topics ranging from ancient Israel studies to security and diplomacy, and from neuroscience to entrepreneurship and innovation. The international school is a beacon not just for high-quality and immersive study, but for welcoming students to Israel from all over the world. 

Supported by Financial Gift from Sir Frank Lowy

Now, an $18-million naming gift from Israeli-Australian businessperson and philanthropist Sir Frank Lowy will allow TAU International to make an even greater positive impact as it transitions into the Lowy International School in Memory of Shirley Lowy.

The Lowy International School will be Tel Aviv University’s premier hub for all things international on campus and is dedicated to Sir Lowy’s wife – a philanthropist and education enthusiast who helped many throughout her life. The school will not only provide the same great programming and services that TAU International currently does, but it will be a hub for visiting scholars,  international research collaborations, supporting TAU members abroad, and creating work with global impact. 

Sir Frank Lowy pictured above.

Internationalism a Strategic Priority for TAU

“One of Tel Aviv University’s top priorities is to become a more global university, and this generous gift from Sir Frank Lowy will be integral to achieving this goal,” says Prof. Milette Shamir, Vice-President International at Tel Aviv University. “TAU International is already a special part of Tel Aviv University –  as The Lowy International School it is primed to evolve to its next and exciting phase.”

Part of the funding from Sir Lowy will go towards a new physical space for the Lowy International School, which is anticipated to open in 2025. The space, to be certified as a green building and located at the heart of campus, will feature an interactive welcome center, outdoor amphitheater, student lounge, conference room and offices.  

Additionally, among other things, the gift from Sir Lowy will support a new Lowy Scholarship Fund for outstanding international students and a Lowy Distinguished Guest Professors Fund for visiting scholars. 

“Our international students and scholars already bring so much to Tel Aviv University,” says Maureen Adiri Meyer, the director of TAU International. “We’re privileged to now be able to pause and ask – how can we make Tel Aviv University the best place for not only a global education, but for academic work that’s global in nature? How can we create a truly great home for bringing the world to Tel Aviv and Tel Aviv to the world?” 

Transition to Occur Seamlessly

TAU International officially becomes the Lowy International School on December 20, 2022. While the name of the school will be different, the many services and programs we currently offer through TAU International will continue without interruption. 

Read the press release about the Lowy International School.