NEW YORK, N.Y. — The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Smithsonian Institution have jointly launched the Albert Einstein Foundation, an initiative encompassing several projects that celebrate Albert Einstein’s legacy, promote peace and advocate for greater education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (collectively known as “STEM”). The collaboration was launched with the signing of a May 16 memorandum of understanding between the two institutions at the Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall.

Signing the agreement were Secretary David Skorton of the Smithsonian and Hebrew University President Professor Menahem Ben-Sasson. Speakers and guests included Israeli Ambassador to the United States Ron Dermer and leaders of Canadian Friends of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and American Friends of The Hebrew University.

“The Smithsonian has extensive resources in talent, platforms and knowledge base, making it the perfect partner for The Hebrew University and the Albert Einstein Foundation,” said Ben-Sasson. “We are confident this collaboration will motivate a new generation to be our future leaders in STEM.”

“Together, the Smithsonian and the Hebrew University have more than 250 years of experience in research, exploration, education and discovery,” said Skorton. “I see a bright future for this partnership. Many scientists, scholars, students, teachers and parents will benefit.”

As co-founder of The Hebrew University, Albert Einstein left his entire estate and intellectual legacy to the institution, including more than 80,000 documents and archives related to his work. The Albert Einstein Foundation will use the archives, exclusive to The Hebrew University, along with the Smithsonian Institution’s resources to further honor his vision.

The Foundation will administer and promote a number of projects tied to the centennial of Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity and the search for new leaders in STEM, including a gala dinner event, a 3D book, and a STEM Summit.

The Smithsonian Institution will host the Dinner of the Century, a gathering of inspirational leaders from the sciences and humanities, on Sept. 9, 2017. The dinner will serve as the publication launch of a unique 3D printed book in the image of Einstein, entitled Genius: 100 Visions of the Future, designed by Israeli artist Ron Arad, which showcase the wisdom and vision of 100 of the greatest icons, leaders and influencers of our time.

The global STEM Summit on Sept. 10, 2017, will showcase innovation and scientific work from The Hebrew University and the Smithsonian Institution and allow participants access to leading minds and innovators in their respective fields.

For more information, visit einsteinlegacyproject.com.