The opening event of the 2010 NIF Board meeting was held at the Rabin Center in Tel Aviv. It was combined with a ceremony for the first annual New Israel Fund Social Leadership Award that was bestowed upon prominent business leader Dov Lautman in recognition of his inspiring leadership and extraordinary contribution to Israeli society, promoting social justice and equality in Israel.

The event was attended by some 180 guests, including NIF board and IC members from the US, Israel and Europe, prominent Israeli philanthropists and business people, friends of Mr. Lautman, foundation representatives, NIF donors and supporters and representatives of key Israeli NGOs.

The guests enjoyed an emotional event which was emceed by actress Gila Almagor, and heard personal blessings to Dov Lautman by Biega Shohat, former Israel Minister of Finance, Benny Levin, Vice Chairman of IVN and co-founder of NICE Systems, and several people who have personally experienced Mr. Lautman's social impact through participation in programs he established or supported.