The Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) expresses deep and heartfelt sorrow at the news of the passing of Ron Nachman, the visionary founder of Ariel in Judea, Israel.

ZOA National President Morton A. Klein said, “I knew and greatly respected Ron Nachman. I am proud to say that Ron Nachman was a friend of mine. He was an extraordinary pioneer whose energy, dynamism and talent created Ariel, a beautiful and thriving Jewish city of over 20,000 people and the fourth largest city in Judea and Samaria today. He truly showed that, as Herzl said, ‘If you will it, it is no dream.’ Ron Nachman, who was the Mayor of Ariel from its founding in 1985, supervised each and every stage in the establishment of Ariel, which now also boasts an excellent university. Ariel University now has over 15,000 students. It is the end of an era for Ariel as well as the start of a new one made possible by his vision and dedication. I will miss him greatly.”