Karny Barak is the new director of the Mandel Graduate Unit. Her professional background spans a range of high-impact roles in the social sector. Prior to her work for the Mandel Foundation–Israel, she directed the Nitzotz pre-military academies for at-risk youth, led Bat-Ami's “My Way” youth programs, founded the Rashi Foundation's National Civic Service Forum, and headed research and development at the Ma’ase Association and Rashi Foundation.

Karny holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations, sociology, and anthropology, and a master’s degree in business administration with a specialization in strategy and entrepreneurship, both from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Karny describes her vision for the Mandel graduate community as follows:

"After four years as a senior team member in the unit, I am honored to serve as Director of the Mandel Graduate Unit. We have now moved beyond the establishment phase of the unit, during which we developed a strong familiarity with the graduate community and gained key insights, and are now entering a new phase focusing on refining the unit’s activities.

At a time when Israeli society faces significant challenges, many of which have intensified over the past two years of ongoing war, the Mandel Foundation's graduates are our greatest asset. The unit will focus its support and activities on graduates who have the greatest capacity to address these challenges, with the goal of translating ideas into meaningful action and real-world impact."

Karny succeeds Maya Bozo-Schwartz, who played a key role in shaping and leading the revised Mandel Graduate Unit.