Auburn Tigers men’s basketball Head Coach Bruce Pearl has never been shy about his support for the country of Israel. Pearl, who is Jewish, frequently leverages his public platform to draw attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

Not only is Pearl a passionate believer in Israel’s right to defend itself, but he has also proven over the years to be more informed on the subject than most.

This week, Pearl was named Chairman of the Board of Directors for the U.S. Israel Education Association, a non-profit organization “dedicated to educating and serving government leaders who are directly involved in advancing important dialogue between the United States and Israel.”

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Pearl released a statement upon the news of his appointment and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue elevating the platform.

“I am deeply honored to be named Chairman of the U.S. Israel Education Association, and hope I can even begin to fill the shoes of outgoing Chair Dr. Phil Roe, former member of Congress and Chair of the House Veterans Affairs Committee,” said Pearl. “My experience in Israel was transformative. I felt it was my responsibility to become more involved in the mission of USIEA and educating senior government leaders in America on the importance of supporting Israel.”

“I also shared this important journey with my team. In August 2022, Auburn University became the first Division I basketball team to play a professional Israeli team, marking a historic moment in both college athletics and U.S.- Israel relations.”

“I’m proud to continue advocating for greater understanding and collaboration between our two nations.”