afhu-news-2014

AFHUnews
Volume 16 | Number 16 | Fall 2014
MILESTONES
A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY EDITION

2014
AFHU NATIONAL
LEADERSHIP
BoARd oF dIREcToRS oFFIcERS
daniel I. Schlessinger
President
Michael S. Kurtz
chairman of the Board
Lawrence E. Glick
Mark R. Gordon
Frances R. Katz
Richard S. Ziman
Vice chairmen of the Board
Michael J. Freed
Executive committee chair
Ernest Bogen
Rita Bogen
charles H. Goodman
Kenneth L. Stein
Ronald M. Zimmerman
Vice Presidents
Pamela N. Emmerich
National campaign chair
Joshua M. olshin
Treasurer
Frances R. Katz
Assistant Treasurer
Pamela N. Emmerich
Secretary
Richard d. Weinberg
Assistant Secretary
BoARd oF dIREcToRS
HoNoRARy PRESIdENTS & cHAIRS
Stanley M. Bogen
Martin E. Karlinsky
Harvey M. Krueger
Barbara A. Mandel
Keith L. Sachs
George A. Schieren
Ira Lee Sorkin
Honorary Presidents
Stanley M. Bogen
Harvey M. Krueger
Keith L. Sachs
George A. Schieren
Ira Lee Sorkin
Honorary chairmen of the Board
PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
Daniel i. SchleSSinger
The current issue of AFHU News is themed
“Milestones” and heralds three anniversaries in
2015: the 90th anniversary of The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, the 50th anniversary
of the Harry S. Truman Research Institute for
the Advancement of Peace and the 100th anniversary
of Albert Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. Each of these
anniversaries deserves a celebration in its own right, and the confluence of all
three makes 2015 a wonderful moment in history for The Hebrew University
and its proud American Friends.
The Hebrew University’s growth—from 140 students in 1925 to a current
student body of 23,000—is a remarkable achievement. And when we consider
other benchmarks such as seven Nobel Prizes for alumni and faculty in just
one decade, or registering 8,300 patents for more than 2,300 HU inventions,
we become even more impressed by the productivity and imagination
of our university’s faculty and students.
In addition to the university’s outstanding reputation in the fields of
humanities and Jewish Studies, a status enhanced by the creation of the Mandel
School for Advanced Studies in the Humanities, HU is Israel’s top-ranked
university in large part due to its prowess in basic and applied sciences.
AFHU News offers just a sampling of these myriad innovations.
The 50th anniversary of the Truman Research Institute reflects another
vital dimension of Hebrew University and highlights its commitment to
multiculturalism and pluralism. In “Expanding Horizons of Hope,” Professor
Menahem Blondheim, director of the Truman Institute, reminds us that
pursuing peaceful coexistence in the Middle East and other parts of the world
is integral to the university’s sense of mission.
Albert Einstein, a founder of The Hebrew University, advocated vigorously
and raised funds in support of the university’s establishment. A Zionist, Einstein
wanted to provide an academic haven for scientists and scholars fleeing
anti-Semitism in Europe. In these pages, we learn about Einstein’s legacy from
Professor Hanoch Gutfreund, whose podcast about the 100th anniversary of
the Theory of Relativity is available on AFHU’s website (www.afhu.org).
In multiple ways, Einstein embodies the spirit of the university and its pursuit
of miracles, whether in the realm of physics, cancer research or peaceful
coexistence among peoples and nations.
Please enjoy AFHU News, and I hope you will consider joining me and my wife
Marcy for AFHU’s President’s Mission to Greece, Bulgaria and Israel this coming
spring. We have major anniversaries to celebrate in Jerusalem. I promise you
won’t want to miss our “miraculous year” when Hebrew University’s achievements
and AFHU’s contributions to this world-class institution will be on full display.
AFHU National President
2 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COLUMN
Beth aSnien Mccoy
This is my first column in AFHU News as national
executive director of our organization. I would
like to take this opportunity to express my
deep appreciation to our entire AFHU–Hebrew
University family from coast to coast. your
commitment continues to inspire my desire to make
AFHU the best organization it can be in the service
of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
I have been with AFHU for 12 years, during which time I have developed
a broad perspective on the needs of the university and the goals AFHU must
achieve in order to fulfill crucial fundraising priorities and foster new
generations of leaders and philanthropists.
This past summer tested our organization’s need to be resilient and
resourceful in light of the conflict in Gaza and the enormous challenges facing
Israel. Partnering with our friends in Jerusalem, AFHU organized HU operation
Protective Edge in support of the students, especially the 1,000 young
women and men called to active duty in the Israel defense Forces. We are
continuing to raise scholarship funds to propel their educations.
When the sirens sounded due to Hamas-fired missiles, we raised funds
for protective shelters for our Rehovot campus, home to the Robert H.
Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Simultaneously,
our dedicated staff and lay leaders pursued our goal of obtaining funding
to assist Hebrew University’s recruitment of outstanding young faculty. We
received vital forms of support for exciting medical research projects.
We developed an alumni program that will enable us to reach out to
thousands of Hebrew University and Rothberg International School graduates
throughout the United States.
Having spoken with our board members and supporters, I know that we all
want AFHU to contribute to Jewish continuity and Israel’s strength. Together,
we represent the values and ideals so many of us associate with our Jewish
heritage and upbringing. We are determined to help Hebrew University
expand its record of cutting-edge research, work that will turn the world’s eyes
to Israel with admiration.
AFHU News offers a glimpse of the regional events, educational programs
and missions that we organized this year to keep American Friends informed,
entertained and connected to The Hebrew University. We constitute a vibrant
community of leaders and supporters.
Please accept my thanks for your participation in AFHU’s mission and for the
philanthropic engagement that makes American Friends so very special.
Contents
EXECUTIVE COLUMNS. . . . . . . . 2
THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY
77TH BOARD OF GOVERNORS . . . 4
PLANNED GIVING . . . . . . . . . 10
CELEBRATING 90 YEARS
IN 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
EXPANDING THE HORIZONS OF
HOPE: THE HARRY S. TRUMAN
RESEARCH INSTITUTE. . . . . . . 16
AN EINSTEIN CENTENNIAL. . . . 19
HEBREW UNIVERSITY:
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS . . . . . 20
ACCOLADES AND HONORS . . . . 22
AFHU EVENTS:
HONORING OUR OWN . . . . 24-30
EDUCATIONAL FORUMS . . . . . 31
ALUMNI NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . 32
IN REMEMBRANCE. . . . . . . . . 33
AFHU PRESIDENT’S MISSION . 34
UPCOMING EVENTS . . . . . . . . 35
AFHU National Executive director
www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 3

The 77 th Annual
HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM
International Board of Governors Meeting
honorary Doctorate anD Benefactor
Patricia l. glaSer
Patricia L. Glaser, a national Scopus Award recipient,
has been a champion of The Hebrew University of
Jerusalem for more than three decades. She is a
governor of the university’s International Board
of Governors and received an Honorary Fellowship
from Hebrew University in 2008. dedicated to AFHU’s
mission, Patricia Glaser provides exemplary leadership,
currently serving on AFHU’s national board and as
vice chairman of the Western Region board.
chair of the litigation department of Glaser Weil Fink
Howard Avchen & Shapiro LLP, Patricia Glaser is among
the short list of preeminent business trial attorneys in
the United States. She also provides general legal counsel
to publicly and privately held companies in a variety
of areas, including real estate, contracts, antitrust,
entertainment, banking and securities.
Born in charleston, West Virginia, she earned her
Bachelor of Arts degree from The American University
Patricia l. glaSer accepts her honorary Doctorate from hU PreSiDent, ProfeSSor MenaheM Ben-SaSSon and rector, ProfeSSor aSher cohen
4 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

and her Juris doctorate from Rutgers University.
Esteemed within the legal community, Patricia Glaser has
earned numerous accolades. chambers and Partners
describes her as a “trial icon” and gives her top
california rankings in both General commercial Litigation
and Media & Entertainment Litigation.
Widely honored by the Jewish community, she is
the recipient of AFHU’s Harvey L. Silbert Torch of
Learning Award and the Bruce I. Hochman Maimonides
Torch of Justice Award from The Jewish Federation of
Greater Los Angeles’ Legal division.
devoted to many causes, Patricia Glaser serves on
the UcLA Israel Studies Program Advisory Board, the
Board of Trustees for The National Judicial college and
the Board of directors of the Jewish Federation of
Greater Los Angeles’ Legal division. She produces local
plays in the california community where she resides
with her husband Sam Mudie, an entrepreneur,
and serves on the Board of directors of the Los Angeles
Music center Theatre Group and the Geffen Theater.
Patricia l. glaSer and SaM MUDie at the Benefactors Wall
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 5

The 77th Annual Hebrew University International Board of Governors
Morton l. ManDel
The 2014 Samuel Rothberg Prize for Jewish Education
Leading businessman and philanthropist
Morton L. Mandel received the 2014 Samuel Rothberg
Prize for Jewish Education during The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem’s 77th International Board
of Governors. The Samuel Rothberg Prize was awarded
in recognition of Morton Mandel’s unparalleled
contributions to education as exemplified by the
recent establishment of the Jack, Joseph and
Morton Mandel School for Advanced Studies in
the Humanities at The Hebrew University.
The Mandel School will spearhead a revival
of the humanities across Israel and at The Hebrew
University in particular, where it will anchor the Faculty
of Humanities’ efforts to strengthen its five new
disciplinary schools of History, Philosophy
and Religion, Literature, Arts and Language Sciences.
The Mandel School will be located on the northern
edge of the Mount Scopus campus, proximate
to the yitzhak Rabin Building, which houses the
Mandel Institute of Jewish Studies.
A transformative gift from the Mandel Foundation
made the Mandel School possible, and is among the
largest gifts in support of the humanities worldwide.
afhU honorary PreSiDent, BarBara
ManDel, became an honorary chairMan
of the hebrew University Board of
governors at its 77th annual Meeting.
6 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

honorary felloWShiPS
lUcille aMSter
arthUr gUtterMan
lUcille J. aMSter and PreSiDent, ProfeSSor MenaheM Ben-SaSSon
arthUr gUtterMan and PreSiDent, ProfeSSor MenaheM Ben-SaSSon
Lucille Amster of Fort Lee, New Jersey, has been a
lifelong champion of Israel and Jewish concerns
worldwide. An active member of AFHU’s national Board
of Regents, she serves as an associate governor of
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Lucille, along with her beloved husband of 56 years,
daniel (z”l), a successful attorney and real estate
developer, participated in AFHU missions to Israel. The
philanthropic couple fostered medical research and
quality healthcare at Hebrew University and have
provided unwavering support for university students.
HU Benefactors, the Amsters have generously provided
support for animal welfare at the Koret School of
Veterinary Medicine at the Robert H. Smith Faculty
of Agriculture, Food and Environment. This year, Lucille
graciously chaired the AFHU New Jersey Region’s
scholarship luncheon to benefit students at the Koret
School of Veterinary Medicine.
A graduate of the New york University School of
Education, Lucille Amster is an enthusiastic community
leader and supports many causes in New Jersey and
Florida.
Arthur Gutterman was awarded an Honorary
Fellowship at the 77th Annual Board of Governors.
To read more, visit page 10.
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 7

The 77th Annual Hebrew University International Board of Governors
honorary felloWShiPS
Mark S. ViDergaUz
Wall of life
Bari anD SteVen gooD
Mark S. ViDergaUz and PreSiDent, ProfeSSor MenaheM Ben-SaSSon
Mark S. Vidergauz, a prominent investment banker
and private equity investor, is an avid supporter of
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and an engaged
AFHU leader whose efforts have advanced AFHU’s
mission on the West coast. Mark has provided
distinguished leadership to AFHU, previously serving as
president of the Western Region and currently
serving as a member of the national Board of directors
and the campaign committee.
A governor of The Hebrew University International
Board of Governors, Mark is a university Guardian
and national AFHU Scopus Award recipient along with his
wife, dr. Sharon Hirschowitz, a professor of pathology at
the david Geffen School of Medicine at UcLA. Mark and
Sharon have long shared a commitment to philanthropy,
the State of Israel and to Jewish communities worldwide.
The founder and chief Executive officer of The Sage
Group, a Los Angeles-based investment bank, Mark
Vidergauz advises private and public companies
on merger and acquisition and corporate finance
transactions in branded consumer industries. A member
of the State Bar of california and the American Bar
Association, he received B.A. and L.L.B. degrees, as well
as degrees in tax and business administration, from the
University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South
Africa, and an L.L.M. degree from the London School of
Economics.
SteVe and Bari gooD at the Wall of life
Bari and Steve Good are dear friends of The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem and driving forces in AFHU’s
Western Region. In tribute to their philanthropic
leadership and support for Hebrew University scholarship
students, Steve and Bari received AFHU’s Humanitarian
Torch of Learning Award during the Western Region’s
Bel Air Affaire.
Steve Good is a member of AFHU’s national Board of
directors and helped develop the Western Region’s
planned giving campaign. A certified public accountant
and financial professional, he is a consultant to, and
retired senior partner of, cohn-Reznick LLc.
Steve Good is the founding president of the Santa
Monica Synagogue. He is a director and past president
of The Guardians of the Los Angeles Jewish Home for
the Aging, the founding director of the ALS Association
and a member of the chancellor's circle of UcLA, where
he received his Bachelor of Science degree and attended
graduate school.
Bari Good is the former president of the National
council of Jewish Women (NcJW), Los Angeles section,
and previously served as an NcJW volunteer, counseling
women and working with children to overcome learning
disabilities. Bari’s dedication to the Jewish community
was instilled in her by her parents, Minnie and Julian
crystal (z”l). Bari Good has shared her passion for painting
with elementary school children, volunteering as an art
teacher at schools without an art program.
8 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

Wall of life
foUnDer
rUth reSnikoff
Dr. allen h. Bezner
in MeMory of hiS granDfather
rUBin greenSPan (z”l)
rUth reSnikoff at the Wall of life
Ruth Resnikoff of Princeton, New Jersey, has lived
in England, South Africa and in the United States during
the past five decades, throughout which time her
commitment to the Jewish community and to Israel has
been steadfast. An enthusiastic Hebrew University
supporter, Ruth received the Guardian Award from
AFHU in November 2013.
Ruth was born in London to a South African mother
and British father. In 1941, during the German Blitz on
London, Ruth and her mother sailed for South Africa
and Ruth completed her schooling in Johannesburg and
cape Town. Upon returning to London, Ruth studied
at the Royal Academy of dramatic Art (RAdA) and
became a professional actor and drama teacher.
Upon returning to South Africa as a RAdA graduate,
Ruth met and married Edward Feit. Edward’s father,
Leo Feit (z”l), was a major philanthropist who helped
to shape Ruth’s perspectives on Jewish communal
leadership and social responsibility. Ruth subsequently
married Sam Resnikoff (z”l), with whom she lived
in coconut creek and Boca Raton, Florida for 30 years,
until Sam’s passing.
Ruth has visited Israel on many occasions and feels a
deep connection to the Jewish community worldwide.
Dr. allen h. Bezner at the founders Wall
dr. Allen H. Bezner, a prominent Palm Beach, Florida
neurologist, is a member of AFHU’s Southeast Region
Board and has supported numerous Palm Beach Scopus
Award galas. dedicated to Israel, he participated in
AFHU’s 2012 national President’s Mission and attended
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem 75th International
Board of Governors.
dr. Bezner dedicated his Founders recognition in loving
memory of his grandfather, Rubin Greenspan (z”l), who
greatly influenced his grandson’s life. In further tribute to
Rubin Greenspan, dr. Bezner has provided generous
scholarship support for Hebrew University students.
dr. Bezner has maintained his private practice in Palm
Beach since 1984. He earned his medical degree at the
University of Miami School of Medicine and completed
his residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital. He received
his undergraduate degree from New york University.
In addition to being active within the medical community,
dr. Bezner is involved in Boca Raton’s Jewish communal
sphere as a member of chabad.
www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 9

PLANNED Charitable GIVING Giving
Arthur Gutterman
Making a Difference
Some philanthropists
develop longstanding
relationships with a
particular organization
or institution over a span
of decades. others fall in love with
a charitable cause virtually “at first
sight,” and become supporters
and leaders almost immediately.
Such is the case with Arthur
Gutterman, who received an Honorary
Fellowship during June 2014 and is a
Benefactor of The Hebrew University
of Jerusalem and an associate governor
of the International Board of
Governors.
Arthur, a chicagoan who recently
relocated to Florida, was introduced
to AFHU through a mailing in 2003. After meeting
professional staff and lay leaders, he became involved
in AFHU’s mission. Arthur joined the national board
and traveled on AFHU missions to Israel. Firsthand
exposure to the university’s brain trust led Arthur
to fund pioneering medical research and scholarships
for medical students.
“Leadership is rewarding. It feels good to be involved
and go beyond just writing a check,” said Arthur,
who is the chairman of Jelmar, LLc, a household cleaning
supplies company that was founded by his father
Manny and is headed by his daughter Alison. In 2012,
AFHU’s Midwest Region celebrated Alison as a Leader
of distinction. Arthur’s other daughter, Jamie Gutterman
dann, established a meaningful career in the field of
social work.
Arthur credits his desire to “give back and do more for
others” to Emalie Gutterman (z”l), his beloved late wife
and mother of Jamie and Alison. Guided by Emalie’s
wisdom, Arthur created scholarships at his alma mater,
Roosevelt University. In 2010, Arthur established the
Emalie Gutterman Memorial Endowed Fund for Medical
Research in chronic Pulmonary disease at Hebrew
University. Several generations of the Gutterman
arthUr gUtterMan and Jeannie kohen at the Benefactors Wall in 2013
family, along with Arthur’s dear friend Jeannie Kohen,
attended the Wall of Life ceremony commemorating
this benevolent gift. Arthur has provided support
for HU Professor Eran Meshorer’s laboratory. Professor
Meshorer is an outstanding young member of the
Edmond and Lily Safra center for Brain Sciences and is
conducting pioneering kidney research.
Beth Asnien Mccoy, AFHU National Executive director,
stated: “Arthur brings business acumen to his role
on our board. At the same time, he cares so much about
our cause. He believes in investment philanthropy that
is directed toward achieving a positive outcome.”
AFHU has a robust planned giving program, including
AFHU Hebrew University Gift Annuities, which offer
multiple benefits. The donor or a designee receives
high fixed-rate income for the duration of his or her life.
The residual of the gift annuity fosters AFHU’s mission
and benefits The Hebrew University in future years.
Arthur Gutterman recently established an AFHU Hebrew
University Gift Annuity, and as he explains, “A gift annuity
is a nice way of taking care of someone, and you can
accomplish several goals with one gift: you can provide
support for the university eventually while obtaining
income for life and a tax deduction.”
10 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

What sets the AFHU Hebrew University
What sets the AFHU Hebrew University
Gift Annuity apart from all others?
Gift Annuity apart from all others?
Photo: Patricia Alvarado Núñez
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www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 11

LOOKING AHEAD: THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM
Celebrating 90 Years in 2015
The past informs our future
The Mount of olives is the ancient name for the ridge of three towering
peaks flanking the eastern edge of Jerusalem; the highest, renamed
Mount Scopus in modern times, became the site of The Hebrew University
of Jerusalem. This area has long claimed an important place in Jewish
consciousness. It was from here that the universal symbol of peace, a dove
holding an olive branch, spread its wings and returned to Noah’s ark, announcing
the receding flood. Jewish scripture also associates these hills with the advent
of a Messianic era. However, the choice of this location for the “University of the
Jewish people,” explains President, Professor Menahem Ben-Sasson, was inspired
by “a concept of a secular messianism that envisioned this university as a temple
to education – grounded in Jewish precepts and Jewish teaching methods,
and acting as a beacon of learning and achievement for the benefit of mankind.”
It has been 90 years since Hebrew University opened. on April l, 1925, the
occasion was marked by a ceremony on Mount Scopus, where some ten thousand
visitors sat perched on the rocky outcrops of a natural amphitheater looking out
across the Judean desert. dignitaries from all over the world attended, as did the
local Jewish, Arab and christian leadership.
BeloW: entrance to the
hebrew University rehovot
campus, home to the
robert h. Smith faculty of
agriculture, food and
environment
12 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

aBoVe: the hebrew
University – hadassah
School of Dental Medicine
founded by the alpha
omega fraternity; etz
Shalom, the tree of Peace
sculpture
right: the cornerstsone
laying of hebrew University
on Mount Scopus in 1918
The nascent university had three fledgling institutes: microbiology, chemistry, and
Jewish Studies. By the end of its first decade, Hebrew University established two
faculties in the humanities and science. However, the world was beset by economic
crises throughout the 1930s and the university struggled to survive financially.
As World War lI drew to a close, Hebrew University made plans for large-scale
expansion that would begin to address the devastation created by the Holocaust, and
rebuild the legacy of the Jewish people. Those plans were curtailed when in 1948,
the newly declared State of Israel found itself in an existential war with its Arab
neighbors. The Mount Scopus campus, including Hadassah Hospital, was highly
vulnerable to attack. on April 15, 1948, a convoy bringing supplies, doctors, nurses
and patients to the hospital was ambushed. In the aftermath of the deadly assault,
the campus was virtually abandoned, with only a small garrison remaining.
Undaunted, the university, now with more than 7,000 students, relocated to
buildings throughout Jerusalem. classes were held in teachers’ homes; monasteries
continues on next page
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 13

LOOKING AHEAD: THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM
Celebrating 90 Years in 2015
continued from previous page
were rented for teaching and administrative purposes; scientific research continued
in huts that lined the Mamilla Road. The university’s medical school and Hadassah
Hospital were re-established in a forested area known as Ein Kerem. In 1954,
a 70-acre site in the undeveloped neighborhood of Givat Ram was allocated to
the university. It immediately became a hive of construction activity, with the first
campus buildings opening in 1965.
Sadly, peace was short-lived. on June 5, 1967, war again erupted with neighboring
Arab states. This time, triumph was swift and within four days the road to Mount
Scopus was reopened. The campus was restored to the reunited city of Jerusalem
and an extensive program of rebuilding was initiated. In 1981 the Faculties of Social
Sciences and Humanities returned to Mount Scopus after an absence of more
than 30 years. The expansion of the university has continued with dedication and
determination, making it one of the great universities of the world.
Hebrew University’s scholarly and scientific contributions have made a positive
impact on every field of human endeavor. The university’s global reputation is
resulting in a “brain gain,” explains Professor Ronnie Friedman, Vice President of
Advancement and External Relations and former dean of the Robert H. Smith
Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment. outstanding Israeli academics who
were working in prestigious institutes abroad are returning home to take up newly
established positions at Hebrew University. This reversal of the “brain drain,” and
its accompanying research achievements, depends on the university maintaining
world-class research facilities, states Professor Friedman.
BeloW: research at the
faculty of Medicine
toP right: early agricultural
research
BottoM right: Students
between classes on the
rehovot campus
14 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

Welcoming Outstanding
Young Faculty
He identifies three essential elements that make Hebrew University an
exceptional academic community: highly motivated students exposed
to a teaching system rooted in the Jewish tradition of asking questions; a
commitment to maintaining advanced research facilities; and an atmosphere
of community which supports and nurtures academics and students. Today,
the university welcomes as part of its extended family hundreds of students
from places such as Africa and china.
“through education we invest in a future committed
to excellence, for the benefit of humanity.”
–ProfeSSor MenaheM Ben-SaSSon
For President Professor Ben-Sasson the concept of family also encompasses
generations of diaspora Jews who have shared and supported the university’s
commitment to serving mankind. “As Jews, we look to our past to inform
our future,” says Professor Ben-Sasson. “Through education we invest in a
future committed to excellence for the benefit of humanity.”
“It’s such a lively, open intellectual
community,” says Dr. Inbal Arnon
when asked about why she
joined The Hebrew University’s
Department of Psychology. A
senior lecturer in the department
and an affiliate member of the
Language, Logic and Cognition
Group in the Faculty of
Humanities, Dr. Arnon is pursuing
interdisciplinary studies on
language acquisition. She is
addressing the question of why
children are better language
learners than adults, a topic that
was the subject of her doctoral
thesis at Stanford University.
Dr. Arnon explains, “My research
is undermining traditional
assumptions as to why children
are better learners, and suggests
practical ways to enhance
language learning in adults.”
Part of this work is being done in
the new Living Lab: a collaborative,
community-oriented initiative
with the Bloomfield Children’s
Science Museum in Jerusalem.
Born and educated in Israel,
Dr. Arnon yearned to build her
career in Jerusalem. “I was
fueled by a desire to be part of
a community to which I feel a
responsibility. This holds true
for both Israel’s academic
community and Israeli society
as a whole.”
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 15

EXPANDING HORIZONS OF HOPE
50th Anniversary of
The Harry S. Truman
Research Institute for the
Advancement of Peace
From the perspective of today’s headlines, conflict is
growing, and militarism is on the rise. However,
from the panoramic rooftop of The Harry S. Truman
Research Institute for the Advancement of Peace on
Mount Scopus, a new perspective – one that begins in
Jerusalem and extends far beyond the horizon – is providing hope
for a better future. combining top-level scholarship with real-world
initiatives, the Truman Institute is a unique environment where coalitions
of academics, policy makers and community leaders come together to alter
the strategic calculus and to promote the trust that is necessary for peace.
celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2015, the Truman Institute was
the first peace research institute in Israel and remains its largest,
with more than a hundred research fellows. It sponsors an equal
number of events, most open to the public, each year. According
to Academic director, Professor Menahem Blondheim, the scope
of institute activities has created a rich intellectual environment
in which new ideas can take root.
“the truman institute offers a powerful model
for promoting dialogue and for working
toward the resolution of regional conflicts.”
– ProfeSSor MenaheM BlonDheiM
“Truman scholars come from universities and colleges in
Israel and from leading institutes around the world to pursue
research related to the Middle East, as well as Asia, Africa,
Latin America and Europe,” says Professor Blondheim, an
expert in history, communication and media who studied at
Hebrew University and Harvard. “We train young diplomats,
and through our Abba Eban centre for Israeli diplomacy
we host ambassadors, foreign ministers and policy makers
for briefings. The Truman Peace Prize has been awarded
to leaders who have made significant contributions to the
pursuit of peace in troubled areas. Balancing academic
research with a wide range of practical projects that require
‘brainstorming’ among experts who would not otherwise
16 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

meet, the Truman Institute offers a powerful model for promoting dialogue and
working toward the resolution of regional conflicts.”
at left, aBoVe: PreSiDent
harry S. trUMan
at left, BeloW: hU PreSiDent
eliahU elath at a ceremony
inaugurating the truman
institute
aBoVe: Media coverage
of war and terrorist
activity was the focus of
a conference held to
mark the publication
of Transforming Media
Coverage of Violent
Conflicts: The New Face
of War. the book was
authored by truman
scholars Dr. zohar kampf
and Professor tamar
liebes.
Promoting local dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians has long been a focus
while some of the institute’s initiatives cast a wider net. “This past September we
sponsored an international conference in crete in which Israelis and their colleagues
from abroad discussed how the Mediterranean Basin’s natural gas reserves could
be leveraged as a basis for economic partnership and regional stability,” says Naama
Shpeter, Truman Institute’s administrative director. “Even in a time when tensions
were high due to the Gaza war, this working group included experts from Lebanon,
Jordan, Algeria and, for the first time, even Saudi Arabia. This shows the value of the
bridge we create.”
According to dr. Micha’el Tanchum, a Truman researcher who is an expert on Islam
and politics in Turkey, Iran and central Asia, and who was a delegate to the energy
conference, the idea of “peace economics” can promote stability. “The proposed Israeli
sale of natural gas to Egypt has added to Egypt’s support for Israel,” he says, “and
economic cooperation may eventually encourage countries like Turkey to restore full
and friendly relations. This practical engagement incentivizes regional cooperation.”
Ambassador William A. Brown, longtime chair and current Acting chair of the Board
of Trustees, is proud to note that despite massive changes that have taken place in
the geo-political realm, the respect given to the Truman Institute has remained
constant. “Truman is highly influential because it is the only research institute for the
advancement of peace in the entire Middle East,” he says. Ambassador Brown adds
that while other organizations do important work, they tend to be based on advocacy
rather than analysis. “By supporting the work of outstanding Ph.d.s and post-doctoral
researchers and by bringing in important speakers, we make a unique contribution.”
continues on next page
www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 17

EXPANDING HORIZONS OF HOPE
50th Anniversary of the
Harry S. Truman
Research Institute for the
Advancement of Peace
continued from previous page
Hebrew University Rector, Professor Asher cohen, points out that another
factor in the institute’s success is its independence. “Rather than operating
under the rubric of one of our academic faculties, Truman is administered
jointly by the university and an independent board of trustees,” he says.
“The Hebrew University is proud of its dual role as a leading research
institution and as an active player in the promotion of the public good.”
celebrating this double legacy will be at the heart of the upcoming
50th anniversary festivities. While preparations for the Jubilee celebrations
are under way, the Truman Institute community will continue with what
Academic director Blondheim describes as “a humbling exercise in failure
and fortitude.”
“Every day, before I start work, I climb up to the roof of the institute,
look out over Jerusalem, and say to myself: we have to bring all our energy
and goodwill to bear, to find a peaceful solution for this amazing
environment,” he says. “Just because we haven’t succeeded yet, doesn’t
mean it’s not possible.”
aBoVe: henry kiSSinger speaks with
ProfeSSor ShloMo aVineri
BeloW: the truman researchers of 2014
are exploring vital topics, among these:
speech acts of threats and condemnation
in different conflicts; the role of popular
narratives of homeland and identity in
the resolution of international territorial
conflict; the arab christian population
of Jaffa, whose language is shifting
from arabic to hebrew; the role of
private peace entrepreneurs in conflict
resolution; and ways in which women
cross “borders” outside their personal
and cultural territory.
18 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
The 100th Anniversary of Einstein’s Discovery
of General Relativity
In 2015, the world will celebrate
the anniversary of Albert
Einstein’s greatest intellectual
achievement: the 100th
anniversary of Einstein’s
discovery of general relativity.
Professor Hanoch Gutfreund,
director of the Einstein
Archives and an eminent
theoretical physicist, spoke
with AFHU about Einstein. Visit
AFHU’s discoveries podcast
series and listen to Professor
Gutfreund’s interview at
afhu.org/discoveries/.
Einstein’s theories
apply to everyday
life. For example,
technologies such as
the Global Positioning
System (GPS) are
only possible with
the knowledge of
relativity. The GPS
satellites orbiting
the Earth must be
precisely synced
with GPS receivers
on the ground in
order to function
properly; their
synchronization is
achieved through
a constant stream
of radio signals
hebrew University founders alBert
transmitted back
einStein and chaiM WeizMann
and forth through
space. With these
transmissions, however, the earth’s gravitational field will
distort the perception of time on a satellite compared
with a GPS receiver on earth, causing GPS locators to
significantly miscalculate positions. If scientists could not
alBert einStein, who raised funds on behalf of the hebrew
University, visited new york
correct for gravity’s effect on time, the GPS would not
be possible.
Einstein’s contributions to humanity extend beyond
revolutionary theorems of physics. Einstein was active
in founding The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
and authored Hebrew University’s mission statement,
expressing his vision for the university as an
international center of learning, “a place where the
universality of the human spirit manifests itself.”
(The Mission of our University, 1925)
Albert Einstein remained committed to The Hebrew
University throughout his life, bequeathing his intellectual
legacy to the institution. Thousands of scientific papers,
letters and personal journals have been compiled
into the Albert Einstein Archives and can be accessed at
alberteinstein.info/.
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 19

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Mobileye is the Biggest-Ever Israeli IPO in the U.S.
Mobileye technology, with its patented EyeQ ® chip, prevents automobile
collisions before they happen. The Israeli startup founded by Amnon
Shashua, the Sachs Family Professor of computer Sciences at The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, raised a record-breaking $890 million in its initial
public offering on NASdAQ on August 1, 2014. Mobileye software is
being installed in cars and trucks from BMW, Mercedes, Ford and other
manufacturers, keeping drivers safe by alerting them to unintended
lane departures or collisions. By 2016, Mobileye expects to produce a
hands-free highway driving system.
Crowdfunding Levels the Financial
Playing Field for Women Entrepreneurs
Crowdfunding is a recent form of fundraising that involves funding projects or
ventures by raising small amounts of money from many people, usually via the
Internet. Researchers from The Jerusalem School of Business Administration at The
Hebrew University, dr. dan Marom and Professor orly Sade, along with colleagues
from Uc Berkeley, studied a major Internet crowdfunding platform, Kickstarter,
and compared the ability of men and women, respectively, to get their projects
funded. Researchers found that although on average, men on Kickstarter asked for and received more business seed
money than women, women enjoyed a 69.5% success rate in getting their projects funded versus 61.4% for men. The
study results are encouraging for women entrepreneurs who have traditionally struggled to obtain business investment
compared with their male colleagues. The project was cited in The New york Times (August 18, 2014).
Novel System Prevents Microbial Contamination of Food Packaging
Water alone may not be enough to wash away the
harmful germs clinging to the surfaces of the fruits
and vegetables that we eat every day. Even after we
wash produce, resilient germs called bacterial biofilm
can survive and multiply on the surface of produce
as well as on the packages growers use to ship their
products. Kaye Prize Winner, Michael Brandwein, a
graduate student mentored by Professor doron
Steinberg at The Hebrew University’s Biofilm Research
Laboratory at the dental faculty, discovered a new
molecule that prevents bacteria biofilm from reproducing.
Mr. Brandwein’s synthesized polymer called TZd
l–r: Michael BranDWein and ProfeSSor Doron SteinBerg
interferes with bacterial and fungal reproduction. yissum,
Hebrew University’s technology transfer company, patented the design for the TZd anti-biofilm polymer and has
partnered with B.G. Tech of Kibbutz Beit Guvrin for further development.
20 | AFHU NEWS
www.afhu.org

Technology to Help the Visually Impaired “Hear” Colors and Shapes
New technology developed by Professor Amir Amedi
from the Edmond and Lily Safra center for Brain
Sciences allows the visually impaired to “see” the visual
world with their ears. Using Sensory Substitution devices
(SSds)—a special camera mounted to a headset—and a
new app for the IPhone called EyeMusic, the visual world
is scanned and translated into auditory representations.
The EyeMusic app takes colors and shapes captured by
the SSd camera and converts them into “Soundscapes,”
with different instruments corresponding to colors
and pitch corresponding to the height of the objects.
Atox Bio Treats a Rare Disease with New Success
Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI)—commonly known as “flesh-eating” bacteria—is a frightening condition
with few effective treatment options. doctors typically treat NSTI with powerful antibiotics and emergency surgery,
but such methods are not always effective.
Studies conducted by Hebrew University’s Raymond Kaempfer, the dr. Philip M. Marcus Professor of Molecular
Biology and cancer Research, and dr. Gila Arad, have produced a promising new treatment to combat NSTI. Their
new therapy, AB103, is an immunomodulator that does not directly attack the bacterial infection, as an antibiotic
would, but which helps bolster the patient’s own immune system to fight the NSTI. AB103’s initial success in clinical
trials has led to the establishment of a new startup, Atox Bio. Investors recently raised $23 million for further
development of AB103.
Yissum and Lockheed Martin to Fly High
in Joint Research Agreement
Lockheed Martin, a global security and aerospace company, strengthened its relationship with Israel when it agreed
to a long-term research deal with yissum, the technology transfer company of Hebrew University. While being known
for its defense and weapons work, Lockheed Martin also has a large IT division and is the largest IT solutions provider
to the U.S. federal government.
Questioning the Jewish Identity of the Khazars
It turns out that the ninth-century Khazars, whose kingdom spanned the caucus Mountains
between the caspian and Black Seas, were not Jewish after all. Shaul Stampfer, the Rabbi
Edward Sandrow Professor of Soviet and East European Jewry at The Hebrew University,
argues in the Jewish Social Studies Journal: Volume 19, Number 3, that the Khazars never
converted to Judaism despite popular myths suggesting otherwise. Professor Stampfer’s
paper critiques various popular and academic literature supporting the Jewish Khazar
conversion theory.
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 21

ACCOLADES
A HIGH RANKING FOR HEBREW UNIVERSITY
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is ranked first in Israel, third in Asia, and 70th worldwide in the 2014 academic
ranking of top universities. The Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), is conducted annually by the center for
World-class Universities at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and is considered the most objective and important ranking
system in the academic sphere.
THE 2014 RAPPAPORT PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH
dr. yaakov Nahmias, director of Hebrew University's Alexander Grass center for
Bioengineering, received the 2014 Rappaport Prize for Excellence in Biomedical
Research. dr. Nahmias was recognized for his innovations and scientific leadership,
including his discovery that naringenin, a grapefruit flavonoid, is capable of blocking
virus production. dr. Nahmias also established Biodesign-Israel, a joint effort of the
Hadassah Medical center, the HU School of Business Administration and the
Alexander Grass center for Bioengineering, to spearhead innovative medical devices.
QLIGHT NANOTECH WINS BEST NANOTECHNOLOGY COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD
THE ISRAEL PRIZE, 2014
Qlight Nanotech, developer of products based on semiconductor nanocrystals for use
in flat panel displays and efficient LEd lighting, won the Best Nanotechnology company
of the year Award at the NanoIsrael 2014 conference. Qlight Nanotech was founded
by Professor Uri Banin, the incumbent of the Alfred & Erica Larisch Memorial chair
at the Institute of chemistry. Professor Banin was the founding director of the Harvey
M. Krueger Family center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.
PROFESSOR JAACOV KATAN, AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH
Professor Jaacov Katan, the Buck Family Professor Emeritus of Plant Pathology and a Hebrew
University alumnus, was awarded the Israel Prize for his work in developing an environmentally safe,
solar energy-based method to manage soil-borne pests.
PROFESSOR HAIM LEVY, POLITICAL AND MANAGERIAL SCIENCE
The Israel Prize for Political and Managerial Science was conferred upon
Professor Haim Levy, the Myles S. Robinson Professor Emeritus,
Jerusalem School of Business Administration.
PROFESSOR MARTA WEINSTOCK-ROSIN, MEDICINE
Professor Marta Weinstock-Rosin, the Leon and Minna deutsch chair of
Psycho-pharmacology and Professor Emeritus of the School of Pharmacy –
Institute for drug Research, received the Israel Prize for developing the blockbuster
drug Exelon and other pharmaceutical treatments for diseases such as
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
THE EMET PRIZE, 2014
Professor Itzchak Zamir, an alumnus of The Hebrew University Faculty of Law, former faculty
member and the faculty’s 12th dean, is the co-recipient of the 2014 EMET Prize in Law.
The EMET prize is awarded by the AMN Foundation, under the sponsorship of Israel’s Prime Minister,
to individuals whose academic and professional achievements have contributed to society.
22 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

WE CONGRATULATE
Professor Amnon Shashua
CONGRATULATE
FROM A REVOLUTIONARY CHIP TO A RECORD-BREAKING IPO
ssor Amnon Shashua
Mobileye, invented by Amnon Shashua, The Sachs Family Professor of Computer Science and
Engineering at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, raised $890 million in its U.S. IPO—the largest
in Israel’s history.
VOLUTIONARY CHIP TO A RECORD-BREAKING IPO
ed by Amnon Shashua, By The the Sachs end Family of this Professor year, 160 of Computer car models Science from and eighteen manufacturers will be equipped with this
e Hebrew University of revolutionary Jerusalem, raised life-saving $890 million collision-avoidance in its U.S. IPO—the largest system. EyeQ ® , Mobileye’s System-on-Chip, provides
y.
real-time visual recognition and scene interpretation for cars and trucks, preventing accidents and
s year, 160 car models saving from eighteen countless manufacturers lives every will day. be equipped with this
-saving collision-avoidance system. EyeQ ® , Mobileye’s System-on-Chip, provides
recognition and scene American
interpretation Friends
for cars of
and The
trucks, Hebrew
preventing University
accidents salutes
and
Professor Shashua and and all The all The Hebrew Hebrew University
lives every day. innovators University innovators who are making who are our making world a our better, world safer a better, place. safer For more place. information For more about information The Hebrew
University about the Hebrew innovation, University please innovation, call AFHU National please contact Executive AFHU’s Director, national Beth Asnien office in McCoy your region. at
of The Hebrew University salutes Professor Shashua and all The Hebrew University
re making our world a (212) better, 607-8555 safer place. or For email: more information bmccoy@afhu.org
about The Hebrew
ation, please call AFHU National Executive Director, Beth Asnien McCoy at
or email: bmccoy@afhu.org
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
RESEARCH ENGINE FOR THE WORLD. ENGINE OF GROWTH FOR A NATION.
CH ENGINE FOR THE WORLD. ENGINE OF GROWTH FOR A NATION.
One Battery Park Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10004
800-567-AFHU (2348)
afhu.org
One Battery Park Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10004
800-567-AFHU (2348)
afhu.org
www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 23

AFHU EVENTS: HONORING OUR OWN
Scopus Awards
SOUTHEAST REGION
Ambassador Stuart Bernstein and Wilma
Bernstein received the national Scopus Award on
January 18, 2014, at a gala held at the Breakers
Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. The Bernsteins,
prior Scopus honorees, were lauded for their
dedication to Israel, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem,
and AFHU’s mission.
For more than five decades, Ambassador Stuart
Bernstein has been a leader in real estate development
in the Mid-Atlantic Region. He has served as ambassador
to the Kingdom of denmark and as a commissioner of
the International cultural and Trade center. Ambassador
Bernstein is also a member of the National Finance
committee for the George W. Bush Presidential center.
Wilma Bernstein has maintained a lifelong commitment
to cultural, philanthropic and political pursuits. A trustee
of the Kennedy center for the Performing Arts, she serves
on the Board of Foundation for Art and Preservation
in Embassies. She has chaired and co-chaired events for
the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington, the Ambassador’s Ball
for Israel Bonds, the 50th Anniversary of the State of Israel and the
125th Anniversary of Adas Israel congregation.
co-chairs of the gala were Roberta and Stanley Bogen, Suellen and
Melvyn (z”l) Estrin, Barbara and Richard Rothschild, Judy and Robert
Snyder, and Robbi and Bruce Toll. The elegant event supported Hebrew
University’s Edmond and Lily Safra center for Brain Sciences.
aBoVe: WilMa and aMBaSSaDor WilliaM
BernStein
BeloW l-r: Dinner chairs: SUellen eStrin,
richarD and BarBara rothSchilD, roBBi
and BrUce toll, roBerta and Stanley
Bogen and JUDy and roBert SnyDer
24 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

GREATER NEW YORK REGION
l-r: honoree Sir Martin Sorrell, charlie roSe and ronalD o. PerelMan, Scopus gala chairman
Sir Martin Sorrell, founder and cEo of WPP, the discovery communications, Irwin Gotlieb of GroupM,
world’s leading communications services group, christopher Graves of oglivy Public Relations, James R.
received AFHU’s national Scopus Award on Heekin of Grey Group, donna Imperato of cohn & Wolfe,
November 6, 2014 in New york. The successful Lois Jacobs of Landor Associates, Bob Jeffrey of JWT,
gala was chaired by Ronald o. Perelman. Among Robert K. Kraft, Jack Martin of Hill+Knowlton Strategies,
the evening’s highlights was a spirited conversation Avner Mendelson of Bank Leumi USA, daniel Morel
between charlie Rose, the renowned journalist and of Wunderman, curt Myers of davis & Gilbert LLP, News
broadcast anchor, and Sir Martin. Guests included many corporation, david Sable of y&R, Eric Salama of Kantar,
leaders in the global media and communications industries. Jon Steinberg of daily Mail, Miles young of oglivy &
Sir Martin Sorrell, who was recognized as “one of
Mather, Time Inc. and condé Nast.
the world’s most influential figures in
business,” by TIME Magazine, is a dedicated
philanthropist and humanitarian. “I am
honored and extremely flattered to receive
the Scopus Award,” said Sir Martin. “Through
its Nobel Prize-winning research and history
of academic success, The Hebrew University
is one of the finest institutions of higher
learning in the world.”
The congenial event raised more than
$1 million in support of The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem.
Vice chairmen of the Scopus gala were:
donald A. Baer of Burson-Marsteller, Bank l-r: hebrew University Vice PreSiDent, ProfeSSor ronnie frieDMan, aMBaSSaDor ron
of America, Phillippe dauman of Viacom, ProSor, roBert kraft and Sir Martin Sorrell
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 25

AFHU EVENTS: HONORING OUR OWN
Humanitarian Torch of Learning Awards
WESTERN REGION
The Bel Air Affaire
l–r: honorees Barry and rhonDa liPPMan and Bari and SteVen gooD
On September 13, 2014, Bari and Steven Good
and Ronda and Barry Lippman received the
Humanitarian Torch of Learning Award at
the glamourous Bel Air Affaire fundraising
evening held in Los Angeles. The Goods
and the Lippmans were recognized for their dynamic
leadership and Jewish communal service. Both couples
have strong connections to the LA Jewish community
and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Earlier this year, Bari and Steve Good were recognized
as Guardians during The Hebrew University’s Board of
Governors meeting. Steve Good is a consultant, a certified
public accountant and a retired senior partner of
cohnReznick LLc. Active in numerous local charities, he
serves on AFHU’s national board of directors. devoted
to many types of community service, Bari Good is
the former president of the National council of Jewish
Women (NcJW), Los Angeles section. She has worked
with NcJW to counsel women and help children to
overcome learning disabilities.
Fellow Humanitarian Torch of Learning recipients,
Ronda and Barry Lippman, have helped propel AFHU’s
mission and fostered diverse philanthropic causes. Barry
Lippman, president and founder of West coast Roofing,
co., is a governor of Hebrew University’s Board of
Governors and serves on AFHU’s national board. He is a
past president of the Western regional board. Ronda
Lippman, a professional travel agent with Plaza
Travel/calig, serves as a board member of the Los
Angeles chapter on the crohn’s and colitis Foundation of
26 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

l–r: event chairs Dr. DaViD anSon and renae JacoBS-anSon, Bel air affaire founder and sponsor BrinDell gottlieB, event chairs helen
JacoBS-lePor and Dr. norMan lePor
America and is a Lion of Judah with the Jewish Federation
of Greater Los Angeles.
This year’s Bel Air Affaire, the seventh such event, was
themed “Architecture in Motion.” The evening raised a
record-breaking $900,000 for student
scholarships and was generously supported by
Brindell Gottlieb. A national board member, Hebrew
University Benefactor and recipient of an
Honorary Fellowship, Brindell Gottlieb
hosted the Bel Air Affaire for six years
at her own lovely home, The Milton,
named in memory of her beloved
husband.
The 2014 Bel Air Affaire provided a
unique architectural experience for
260 guests, who were welcomed to the
beautiful and scenic hilltop home of
Anthony and Jeanne Pritzker.
Hebrew University special guest
speakers were Professor Shy Arkin,
Vice President for Research and
development, and dr. daniel-Robert chebat, a
post-doctoral fellow at the Edmond and Lily Safra center
for Brain Sciences.
co-chairs of the unique event were Renae Jacobs-Anson
and dr. david Anson and Helen Jacobs-Lepor and
dr. Norman Lepor. Honorary chairs were Western Region
chair, Patricia L. Glaser and Sam Mudie, and May and
Richard Ziman, former chair of the Western Region.
RIGHT: Diavolo, a celebrated
dance troupe, performed
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 27

AFHU EVENTS: HONORING OUR OWN
Torch of Learning Awards
GREATER NEW YORK REGION
On May 20, 2014, Susan E.
Brune and Edward G.
Turan accepted the 44th
George A. Katz Torch of
Learning Award before an
audience filled with friends, colleagues
and family. The prominent attorneys
were recognized for their career
achievements and civic involvement.
Proceeds from the luncheon provided
funding for the clinical Legal Education
center at Hebrew University’s
Faculty of Law.
Susan E. Brune, a partner at Brune
& Richard LLP, has been recognized
for excellence in the practice of law by
chambers USA and is the recipient of
the Thurgood Marshall Award for
outstanding Practitioner. In addition
to representing clients in criminal
and regulatory proceedings, and in
commercial litigation, Susan Brune
provides counsel for entities in
the financial services and energy
industries. She has served as an
honorees SUSan e. BrUne and eDWarD g. tUran
Assistant United States Attorney for
the Southern district of New york.
Susan is a member of the Board of Trustees of the criminal Justice
Foundation and is active in the Mccarton Foundation, which seeks
to empower autistic individuals through educational means.
Edward G. Turan is among the most respected in-house attorneys
on Wall Street, serving as Special counsel and a Managing director
of citigroup. He previously served as Head of Litigation for
citi’s Investment Bank. A member of the Securities Industry and
Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), Edward Turan serves on
the clearinghouse Litigation committee and on the Board of
directors of the Urban Justice center, from which he received the
community Justice Award.
Guest speakers for the George A. Katz Torch of Learning Award
luncheon were Bret Stephens, deputy Editorial Page Editor of
The Wall Street Journal and Professor yuval Shany, dean of HU’s
Faculty of Law. Event co-chairs were Barry H. Berke, Brad S. Karp,
Andrew J. Levander, George A. Schieren, Jane c. Sherburne,
Rohan S. Weerasinghe and Richard d. Weinberg.
keynote speaker Bret StePhenS
28 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

SOUTHEAST REGION
Prominent
attorney Alan
B. cohn was
presented with
the Torch of
Learning Award on
September 18, 2014,
at the Marriott Harbor
Beach Resort & Spa in
Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The notable event
benefited The Hebrew
University’s pediatric
cancer research efforts.
Mr. cohn is a
shareholder at
Greenspoon Marder
Law in Fort Lauderdale
and has extensive
experience in tax, estate
and probate law. He
l-r: afhU SoUtheaSt region PreSiDent, Mitchell l. ShaDoWitz, torch of learning honoree alan B.
has been named on cohn, esq. and afhU SoUtheaSt region PaSt PreSiDent, ShelDon hechtMan
annual lists of Super
Lawyers and selected as a “Top Rated
Lawyer” by ALM and Martindale-Hubbell
in Taxation since 2012.
Highly regarded as a civic and Jewish
communal leader, Alan cohn serves on
the boards of the Broward Performing
Arts Foundation, Nova Southeastern
University, Rotary club of Fort
Lauderdale/cypress creek, I care I cure
childhood cancer Foundation, Jewish
Federation of Broward county,
Jewish community Foundation of
Broward, Israel Bonds, Jewish Family
Service, Inc. of Broward county, the
Rose and Jack orloff central Agency
for Jewish Education, Israel Elwyn,
University of Florida Hillel and Temple
Kol Ami Emanu-El.
The award dinner was chaired by
Gerald Greenspoon, Alan P. Fiske, and
Sheri Fiske Schultz.
l–r:Dinner chairs Sheri fiSke SchUltz, alan P. fiSke and aDrienne fiSke
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 29

AFHU EVENTS: HONORING OUR OWN
Torch of Learning Awards
MID-ATLANTIC REGION
American Friends of
The Hebrew University
honored William J. Kilberg
with the Torch of
Learning Award on
September 17, 2014. The event
supported the Aharon Barak
center for Interdisciplinary Legal
Research at HU’s Faculty of Law.
Keynote remarks were provided by
U.S. congressman Paul Ryan
of Wisconsin’s First district.
Mr. Kilberg is the most senior
partner in the Labor and
Employment Law Practice Group at
Gibson, dunn & crutcher LLP,
arguing significant matters before
eight United States courts of
Appeals and the United States Supreme court. In 1973, President Richard
Nixon appointed him as the Solicitor for the U.S. department of Labor.
He served as Associate Solicitor of Labor, General counsel of the Federal
Mediation and conciliation Service and as a White House Fellow and
Special Assistant to Secretary of Labor George P. Shultz. In 1982, President
Ronald Reagan appointed Mr. Kilberg to the commission on White House
Fellowships.
Recently, Mr. Kilberg served as a co-chair of the National Finance
committees for the John Mccain and Mitt Romney presidential campaigns
and as chair of the Policy committee on Labor for the Romney campaign.
A dedicated American Friend, William Kilberg serves on the AFHU
Mid-Atlantic Region Board. He is on
the board of The Potomac School,
the Virginia Israel Advisory Board
and serves on the United States
Holocaust Memorial Museum
Lawyers committee.
The lively dinner was chaired by
Fred and Marlene Malek. Serving as
honorary chairs were The Honorable
dick cheney and The Honorable
Lynne cheney, the Honorable
George P. Shultz, Senator John
Mccain, Senator Tim Kaine,
The Honorable Mitt Romney, The
Honorable Eric cantor, and
The Honorable Joseph Lieberman.
aBoVe: WilliaM J. kilBerg (c) accepts
the torch of learning award
presented by teD olSon (l) and
freD Malek (r)
BeloW l–r: congreSSMan PaUl ryan,
BoBBie kilBerg, the honoraBle rUth
BaDer ginSBUrg and WilliaM kilBerg
30 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

AFHU EVENTS
l–r: Dr. gillian Dank, raMBo aMSter and lUcille
Supporting Our Students
ANew Jersey scholarship luncheon drew guests
to Le Jardin Restaurant in Edgewater, New Jersey
on June 18, 2014. Hosted and chaired by
Lucille Amster, Hebrew University Benefactor
and AFHU Board of Regents member, the event
provided scholarships for students at The Hebrew
University’s Koret School of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Gillian Dank, a Koret School alumna and
Israel’s foremost veterinary oncologist, spoke about
animal welfare. The luncheon was co-chaired by
Yvette Tekel and Martha Zilbert.
Annual Leadership Education Forum
SOUTHEAST REGION
On January 19, 2014, more than 250 American
Friends participated in AFHU's Annual
Leadership Education Forum (ALEF) in Palm
Beach, FL. Entitled “Advancing Israel’s Future,”
the event featured Hebrew University faculty
and speakers from other leading institutions. Topics
ranged from Middle East affairs to interdisciplinary brain
sciences.
Hebrew University presenters included: Professor Shy
Arkin, Vice President for Research and development;
Professor Elie Podeh, former chair of the department of
Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies; Professor Hermona
Soreq, the charlotte Slesinger Professor of Molecular
Neuroscience; and dr. Zvi Granot, an outstanding young
specialist in cancer research and biology. congressman
Ted deutch of Florida’s 21st district offered opening
l–r: Middle east affairs panel featuring Dr. Michael Doran, the
roger hertog fellow at the Brookings institute’s Saban center,
ProfeSSor elie PoDeh, aMBaSSaDor WilliaM BernStein (moderator),
Stanley Bogen, afhU honorary PreSiDent and honorary
chairMan, and aMBaSSaDor carMi gillon (at podium)
remarks and William Kristol, founder and editor of The
Weekly Standard, was the keynote speaker.
A Weekend of Learning
MIDWEST REGION
ProfeSSor reUVen hazan
www.afhu.org
Nearly 500 guests attended a “Weekend of Learning” in and around cleveland
from June 27-29, 2014. Incisive discussions on Israeli politics and democracy
were led by Professor Reuven Hazan, chair of the Faculty of Political Science
at The Hebrew University. Event co-chairs Ellen cohn and Victor cohn, an
AFHU Board of Regents member, hosted a cordial reception in their home.
co-chairs for the Weekend of Learning were: carol and Scott Burg, Rina and Samuel
Frankel, Elaine and Beno Michel, and Barbara and Norman Wain.
AFHU NEWS | 31

ALUMNI NEWS
SEPTEMBER ALUMNI EVENT IN NYC
Dr. Daniel-roBert cheBat shares how the “voice” technology
aids the visually impaired.
Dr. cheBat and alumni of hebrew University from the new york area
This year AFHU launched a dynamic alumni
outreach initiative. created to reconnect
classmates, the alumni initiative helps keep
alumni engaged and provides news and
updates from our favorite alma mater, Hebrew
University. To sign up and receive information about
news and programs, visit alumni.afhu.org or email
Alana cooper at acooper@afhu.org.
INAUGURAL BAY AREA ALUMNI EVENING
cliVe kaBatznik, chair, afhU alUMni relationS speaks with fellow
alumni at the october event.
ProfeSSor Shy arkin meets alumni before his presentation,
“from research to application.”
New york Governor Andrew cuomo
visited Israel as part of a solidarity
delegation that included several
New york state legislative leaders.
on Wednesday, August 13, 2014, the
governor met with overseas students
from New york studying at The
Rothberg International School of
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
32 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

In Remembrance
We mourn the passing of
Sylvia Amada
Morton Amsterdam
Yigal Arnon
Harold Berry
Sanfurd Bluestein
Patte Bogen Roberts
Leah Eisemann Conn
Jennie “Jay” Coral
Gisela Kohn Dollinger
Daniel Drench
Melvyn Estrin
Leah Bornstein Franklin
Herman Gelman
Ralph I. Goldman
Abner Golieb
Sylvia K. Hassenfeld
Anne Heyman
Jacqueline Jubas
Sara Hirsch Kaplan
Richard M. Karp
Eleanor Meyerhoff Katz
Dr. Herbert J. Kayden
Marjorie Kohrman
David Btech Levy
Ambassador Samuel W. Lewis
Margit Lowenstein
Robert L. Marcalus
Irene Newman
Jean Richek
Helen C. Rowen
Sara Sandler
Dr. Wilbur Schwartz
Esther Seiden
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon
Letty Stein
Harriet Turan
Gerhard J.Weir
Helen Ziman
www.afhu.org
AFHU NEWS | 33

AFHU PRESIDENT’S MISSION TO
GREECE, BULGARIA AND ISRAEL
MAY 23– JUNE 3, 2015
4 N I G H T S I N T H E S S A L O N I K I + 2 N I G H T S I N S O F I A + 5 N I G H T S I N J E R U S A L E M
In Thessaloniki, Greece
l Receive private tours of ancient and Jewish Thessaloniki;
visit the central Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, the
Holocaust Memorial
l Journey through history at the Museum of Byzantine culture,
the historic Rotunda and the ornate Arch of Galerius
In Sofia, Bulgaria
l discover the unique architecture of the Rila Monastery and
explore Sofia’s magnificent Great Synagogue
l Enjoy a VIP reception with the Israeli ambassador to Bulgaria
at the National Archaeological Museum
Jerusalem, Israel
l Experience the festivities surrounding the 90th anniversary
of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the 50th
anniversary of the Harry S. Truman Research Institute for
the Advancement of Peace
l Learn from Israeli political dignitaries and international leaders
during the 78th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors
of The Hebrew University
For more information, contact Judith Shenkman at
(312) 329-0332 or jshenkman@afhu.org
34 | AFHU NEWS www.afhu.org

SELECTED UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2015
REGION DATE EVENT
Southeast Region JANUARY 18 Palm Beach Annual Leadership Education forum (ALEF)
Making a Global Impact
The Four Seasons Palm Beach – Palm Beach, Florida
Southeast Region JANUARY 18 Palm Beach Gala 10th Anniversary celebration, A Night in the Garden of Eden
Honoring: diane Belfer, Wilma Bernstein, Roberta Bogen,
Barbara Eichner, Sherry Endelson, Ellen Levy, Barbara Rothschild,
Louise Stein (z”l), Joy Weinberger, Lois Zelman
Mar-a-Lago – Palm Beach, Florida
National JANUARY 19 National Board of directors Meeting
The Four Seasons Palm Beach - Palm Beach, Florida
Greater New York MARCH 12 45th George A. Katz Torch of Learning Award Luncheon
Region
Honoring Meredith E. Kotler, Partner, cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, LLP
cipriani, New york
Western Region APRIL 20 Harvey L. Silbert Torch of Learning Award 2015 Law Society dinner
Honoring Jonathan Anschell, Exec VP and General counsel, cBS Television,
& dick Volpert, Sr. Partner, Glaser Weil LLP
co-chairs: Patricia Glaser, chuck Hershson, Leslie Moonves,
Lynne Silbert, Peter Weil
The Beverly Hilton - Beverly Hills, california
National MAY 3 AFHU Annual Board of directors Meeting
New york
Midwest Region MAY 23–JUNE 3 President’s Mission 2015
Thessaloniki, Greece, Sofia, Bulgaria and Israel
National MAY 29–JUNE 3 78th Hebrew University International Board of Governors Meeting
Jerusalem
Learn more about these and other events at www.afhu.org/events
AFHUnews
Published by American Friends of The Hebrew University
One Battery Park Plaza, 25th Fl., New York, NY 10004-1405
Tel: (212) 607-8500 1-800-567-AFHU (2348) Fax: (212) 809-4430
E-mail: info@afhu.org website: www.afhu.org
Daniel I. Schlessinger
President
Michael S. Kurtz
Chairman of the Board
Beth Asnien McCoy
National Executive Director
Linda Zisk
National Director of Development
James L. Rothkopf
Chief Financial Officer
Daniel Rutberg
Chief Information Officer
Joyce Grossman
National Executive Director,
Marketing Communications
NATIONAL
(212) 607-8500
GREATER NEW YORK REGION
(212) 607-8510
MID-ATLANTIC REGION
(202) 363-4600
SOUTHEAST REGION
(561) 750-8585
MIDWEST REGION
(312) 329-0332
WESTERN REGION
(310) 843-3100
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
REGION
(415) 231-6720
www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 35

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY
One Battery Park Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10004-1405
Non-Profit org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
New york, Ny
Permit No. 811
ALE LEF
2015
ALEF
2015
ANNUAL AL LEADERSHIP
EDUCATION FORUM
THE HEB
OF JERU
MAK
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SUNDAY, JANUARY ARY 18,
2
9:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.
FOUR SEASONS RESORT
PALM BEACH
Formal invitation tion to follow
For more information, contact Laura Abrams at (561) 750-8585 or labrams@afhu.org