Mission & History

Science for the Future of Humanity

Making a Difference – With Your Help

Founded in 1944, the American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science has been a driving force throughout the history of the Weizmann Institute – fostering the partnership between science and philanthropy while supporting the Institute’s needs, leading the way in providing resources for continuous development and pioneering projects, and promoting awareness of the vision and accomplishments of its scientists.

The American Committee is not only a national organization, but also a community of dedicated people who share a common mission: advancing the Institute’s goals by becoming partners in the search for answers to the most difficult challenges facing humanity.

The American philanthropic presence is felt wherever you look on the Institute’s campus. Buildings, laboratories, instruments, and educational and research projects owe their existence to the efforts of the American Committee and its loyal supporters. These same donors provide the endowed professorial chairs, scholarships, and other financial assistance that support the scientists, teachers, and students who bring life and meaning to the physical facilities.

All of us—and each of us—must do all that we are able to ensure that the trajectory and pace of modern science never falters. The best of human existence is ahead of us—and science will transport us there. If you would like to receive updates about research breakthroughs at the Weizmann Institute of Science and other news, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or sign up to receive e-mails.

The American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Eight Decades of Science and Philanthropy

It was November 1944. World War II was raging, with the Allies still struggling to defeat Nazi Germany. In New York City, a handful of determined men – visionaries, even, inspired by the dreams of Dr. Chaim Weizmann, the eminent chemist and Zionist leader – decided to form the fledgling Board of Directors of what was then called the American Committee for the Chaim Weizmann Scientific Institute, Inc.

Dr. Chaim Weizmann later became the first President of the State of Israel and of the Institute that bears his name, making an indelible mark both on history and on scientific research. And over the years and decades to follow, outstanding business, intellectual, and opinion leaders joined the American Committee to participate in this unique philanthropic endeavor and support Dr. Weizmann’s Institute.

As it grew from modest beginnings in New York City and Boston, the American Committee became a prominent national organization with offices coast to coast. It has enabled Americans to play a dramatic partnership role in keeping the Weizmann Institute at the forefront of modern science. Research funds, centers and institutes, major buildings, professorial chairs, laboratories, endowed scholarships, advanced instrumentation, and many other gifts testify to vigorous American commitment to the Institute, its graduate school, and to the mission of science for the future of humanity.