Brig. Gen. Nehemia Dagan (ret.) is a distinguished leader with a notable legacy in both the military and cultural fields. Serving as a helicopter pilot in all Israeli wars from 1959 to 1996, Nehemia Dagan earned the IDF Distinguished Medal for exceptional operations in enemy territory. As an IDF brigadier general, Dagan founded and commanded crucial military units, including the CH-53 Squadron, the first Helicopter Air Force Base, and the IDF Joint Operations Headquarters (JOHQ), and also served as the IDF’s Chief Education Officer.

Dagan also initiated the IDF “Sunday Morning Culture” program to connect soldiers with cultural experiences, as well as the “IDF Outstanding Musicians and Dancers” program, which fostered the development of gifted musicians and dancers through innovative programs. As chairman of the Susan Dellal Israeli Dance Center, he played a key role in enhancing Israel’s cultural landscape.

Committed to strengthening ties between Israel and the Diaspora, Nehemia Dagan has held various leadership roles, including participation in advisory boards and the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, contributing to democratic initiatives in Latin America and Africa. Dagan holds a B.A. in General Studies from Tel Aviv University, focusing on Jewish History and Political Science.