On January 16th, Tamar Arieli, visiting MGSDII Israeli Professor, accompanied students from University of San Diego’s Masters in Social Innovation on a full day visit to Tijuana. Tamar shared about the similarities and differences between Israel’s borders and those of the U.S. and Mexico.  Led by Dr. Everard Meade, Director of the Trans-Border Institute at USD’s Kroc School, it was an opportunity to learn about some key initiatives fostering social innovation and urban renewal in Tijuana as well. The group met with many organizations fostering true social and economic change along the border. This included Estacion Federal reflecting urban renewal in mixed use buildings, Escuela Libre de Architectura creating the next generation of architects and Pasaje Rodriguez, showcasing art and cultural transformation. They also met with several regional leaders in cross-border collaboration.

Karen Henken, Professor of Practice in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at USD, welcomed Tamar on the visit. Tamar shared many insights from her own work in cross-border collaboration and opportunities at Tel Hai College.