Carol and Kaylen Silverberg address the audience at the opening reception for the Carol & Kaylen Silverberg Family Interactive Wall Celebrating Israeli Innovation and Global Impact on Jan. 18 at the Dell JCC. Credit: Wendy Goodman

By Wendy Goodman

On January 18, Shalom Austin unveiled an extraordinary new interactive display at the Dell Jewish Community Center. The Carol & Kaylen Silverberg Family Interactive Wall Celebrating Israeli Innovation and Global Impact serves as a dynamic platform where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Israel’s culture and innovation.

This groundbreaking project, donated and designed by community leaders Carol and Kaylen Silverberg, represents a fusion of technology, culture and storytelling to showcase the essence and achievements of this small, but impactful country.

After frequent visits to Israel, Carol and Kaylen were inspired by a deep sense of pride and commitment to share the stories they encountered of the Israeli people. 

Motivated by the desire to promote the stories and achievements of ordinary Israelis in an engaging and accessible way, they dedicated their resources and expertise to bring the interactive wall to life.

“We are thrilled to present this innovative showcase of technology and innovation from Israel, a country with more startups per capita than any other place in the world,” said Carol and Kaylen. “By bringing together the best and brightest ideas of the Israeli people, we hope to inspire curiosity, foster learning and encourage connection for the community.”

The interactive wall also caught the attention of Julie Platt, Jewish Federations of North America chair, when she visited Austin in February.

“During my recent visit to Austin, I had the opportunity to experience the new interactive exhibit on permanent display at the Dell JCC. I was deeply moved by the poignant narratives of innovation, resilience and triumph. This one-of-a-kind immersive experience vividly underscores the rich tapestry of stories that define the spirit and heritage of the Israeli people.

Through cutting-edge multimedia presentations, visitors can interact with six dynamic menu options:

• Planet – Agriculture and Climate Innovations
• Health – Human Biomedical, Pharmaceutical, Medical innovations
• Safe & Space – Security and Space innovations
• Tech – High tech Hardware and Software innovations
• Life – Arts and Culture Innovations
• Hub – The Innovation Ecosystem (CEOs, Games, Global Impact Map)

‌Shalom Austin and other community professionals took part in bringing the Silverberg Israel Interactive Wall to the Dell JCC including community leader Keith Zimmerman, Shalom Austin CEO Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus, Shalom Austin Chief Strategy and Impact Officer Rachel Stern and Shalom Austin Chief Operating Officer Janet Elam.

Carol and Kaylen aim to continue to collaborate with community members, elicit feedback, add content and make ongoing upgrades to the wall.

Community members are invited to visit the Silverberg Israel Interactive Wall at the Dell JCC. For more information or to schedule a demo, email
[email protected].