The 45th Anniversary Sister City Series: Tiberias
Located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee and 680 feet below sea level, Tiberias is one of the four Holy Cities of Judaism and a historic crossroads of Jewish and Christian tradition. From ancient pilgrimage sites to mineral hot springs, the city offers both deep spiritual resonance and relaxing lakeside charm. And with a warm, laid-back energy not unlike Tulsa’s, it’s no wonder the two cities have been connected for over 30 years.
The Partnership
Tulsa and Tiberias became Sister Cities in 1989 under Mayor Rodger Randle, with the support of local Jewish community leaders Sara Sanditen and Yolanda Charney. Since then, this partnership has blossomed into a model of meaningful, multigenerational exchange.
A highlight? The student connection between Carver Middle School and Amal Nofarim Junior High. From pen pal letters and cultural performances to two-way travel and shared learning on the Holocaust, this youth exchange has brought Israeli and American students together in unforgettable ways.
A Gift of Friendship—And Steel
In 2022, Tulsa gifted a life-sized steel bison sculpture to Tiberias to celebrate the 2,000th anniversary of Tiberias and the 30th anniversary of the Sister City relationship. Designed by a Tulsa artist, the sculpture was dedicated in a ceremony attended by the Mayor of Tiberias, Israeli officials, and a group of Carver Middle School students who were in Tiberias on an exchange trip.
This gift symbolizes the enduring bond between the two cities—blending local creativity with international friendship.
Meet the Chair: Chloe Chappell
Chloe Chappell, who works in Holocaust education and community outreach, brings both personal passion and professional expertise to the Tiberias partnership. A lifelong traveler who’s lived in three countries and visited 19, Chloe says, “Israel feels so far away sometimes, so I really enjoy doing what I can to bring awareness and learning closer to home.”
What makes the partnership special to her? “Tiberias isn’t as well-known as Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, but it has a similar vibe to Tulsa—relaxed, warm, and full of beauty.”
You might’ve seen Chloe at Gathering Place recently leading a Global Gatherings Story Time—just one of the many ways she loves engaging across generations.
Why It Matters
The Tulsa–Tiberias partnership shows how international relationships can thrive through creativity, education, and shared values. Whether it’s students exploring history together, a sculpture traveling across the globe, or volunteers like Chloe helping connect cultures, this Sister City tie continues to build bridges that matter.
Support the Friendships That Connect Us
For 45 years, Tulsa Global Alliance has supported Sister City relationships that bring the world a little closer to home. These connections grow through exchange, hospitality, and shared experiences. If you believe in the power of people-to-people diplomacy, consider making a donation to help sustain and expand programs like these.
