afhu-news-2015

AFHUnews 

Volume 17 | Number 17 | Fall 2015 

The Hebrew University and Cleveland Clinic: Leading the Way in Nanomedicine

2015 

AFHU NATIONAL 

LEADERSHIP 

Board of directors officers 

daniel i. schlessinger 

President 

Michael s. Kurtz 

chairman of the Board 

Mark r. Gordon 

frances r. Katz 

richard s. Ziman 

Vice chairmen of the Board 

daniel i. schlessinger 

executive committee chair 

ernest Bogen 

rita Bogen 

charles H. Goodman 

Kenneth L. stein 

ronald M. Zimmerman 

Vice Presidents 

Marc o. Mayer 

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 

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 

Lawrence e. Glick 

Honorary Vice chairman 

of the Board 

Contents 

THE YEAR OF VISIONARY SCIENCE . . . . . . . . . 3 

LEADING THE WAY IN NANOMEDICINE: 

THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY AND 

CLEVELAND CLINIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

THE SACHS FAMILY FACULTY DEVELOPMENT 

CHAIR IN BRAIN SCIENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

SUPPORTING NEW FACULTY RECRUITMENT . . . 10 

THE LAUTENBERG CENTER: 

BUILDING FOR TOMORROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS . 14 

ACCOLADES AND NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 

THE 78TH HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

INTERNATIONAL BOARD OF GOVERNORS . . . . . 21 

THE JACK, JOSEPH AND MORTON 

MANDEL SCHOOL FOR ADVANCED 

STUDIES IN THE HUMANITIES . . . . . . . . . . . 23 

PALM BEACH MISSION: CELEBRATING 

PHILANTHROPIC LEADERSHIP. . . . . . . . . . . . 32 

AFHU EVENTS: HONORING OUR OWN . . . . . . 34 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY ALUMNI NEWS . . . . . . 42 

AFHU PLANNED GIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 

IN REMEMBRANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 

UPCOMING EVENT HIGHLIGHTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 

2 | afhu news 

www.afhu.org

THE YEAR OF VISIONARY SCIENCE 

dear friends: 

the year 2015–2016 might be characterized as the year of Visionary science at the Hebrew University 

of Jerusalem. transformative projects are being launched in aspects of nanomedicine, cancer research and 

bioengineering. the robust $50 million afHU campaign to help establish the edmond and Lily safra center 

for Brain sciences (eLsc) is coming to fruition in the months ahead. these initiatives reflect afHU’s 

comprehensive support of a top university in the forefront of medical research and technology innovation. 

on october 12, 2015, the Hebrew University and cleveland clinic jointly announced an unparalleled 

new partnership to create a center for transformative Nanomedicine. you will read more about this 

groundbreaking work in this issue of afHU News. the pioneering partnership will leverage the strengths 

of two major institutions and revolutionize global health care through the development of effective, benign 

and cost-effective nanomedicines and drug delivery systems. Primary areas of concentration will be 

cardiovascular disease, neurological illnesses and cancer. to have leading scientists from powerhouse 

facilities in israel and the U.s. spearhead these activities is a remarkable achievement, and afHU is proud 

to propel the multimillion-dollar fundraising campaign to advance human health. 

the match between cleveland clinic and Hebrew University was conceived of by one of our National 

Board members, Victor cohn of cleveland. a dedicated supporter of both institutions, Victor journeyed with 

cleveland clinic leaders to Jerusalem. discussions with the university ensued, resulting in an important 

scientific relationship. 

on the cancer-fighting frontier, afHU is promoting a fundraising campaign, led by afHU chairman 

Michael Kurtz, to create new laboratories for our award-winning scientists at HU’s Lautenberg center for 

immunology and cancer research. Much as nanomedicine holds the promise of improved health, so 

does immunotherapy. these forward-looking approaches to fighting disease through customized therapies 

are offering hope to millions of people worldwide. 

our newsletter also highlights Hebrew University’s very first faculty development chair in interdisciplinary 

brain sciences, which enables the recruitment of promising new researchers. once a deserving new faculty 

member is integrated into the Hebrew University community, the chair will fund another talented newcomer, 

continually serving to assist the university in attracting outstanding young scientists. the sachs family 

faculty development chair, generously funded by longstanding leaders, Keith and Herb sachs, will foster 

the career of a rising academic star who is investigating the mysteries of brain function. 

Bioengineering is yet another 21st century pursuit at the Hebrew University. our scientists are striving to 

develop innovative medical and dental medical devices, making quality health care and improved diagnostic 

tools available to people even in remote regions of the world. 

the Hebrew University excels in many crucial fields, including the Humanities, Law, agriculture and social 

sciences: its full spectrum of achievements deserve our attention and praise. Nevertheless, 2015-2016 

is shaping up to be the year of Visionary science, and the world will benefit from Hebrew University’s efforts. 

DANIEL I. SCHLESSINGER 

afHU National President 

BETH ASNIEN MCCOY 

afHU National executive director 

www.afhu.org afhu news | 3



LEADING THE WAY IN NANOMEDICINE 

A groundbreaking collaboration between 

Cleveland Clinic and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem 

is creating The Center for Transformative Medicine. 

This historic partnership officially launched 

on october 12, 2015, kicking off a major 

U.s. and israeli effort to revolutionize the 

future of medicine through the development 

of nano-products designed to safeguard 

human health. two international leaders in medicine 

and science, cleveland clinic and the Hebrew 

University, are joining forces on an unprecedented 

initiative, harnessing nanoscience and nanotechnology 

to improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of 

global health care. Greatest research concentration 

will be placed on cardiovascular disease, cancer and 

neurological diseases. 

the Hebrew University’s school of Pharmacy is 

one of the top ten drug science research institutes in 

the world. its faculty of approximately 25 researchers 

is less than 3% of the university’s senior academic staff; nevertheless, this brain trust has 

generated more than 25% of all patents held by the university. a pioneer in developing 

drug delivery systems, the school of Pharmacy is acclaimed for its use of innovative 

nano-techniques for probing individual cells within the human body. Using tiny particles to 

penetrate diseased cells, researchers are exploring the 

processes underlying conditions as diverse as cancer, 

atherosclerosis, arthritis and epilepsy. these findings 

“If you don’t understand every detail of a 

are leading toward new methods for the diagnosis and 

nano-system you can’t scale it up.” 

treatment of diseases. 

–PROFESSOR SIMON BENITA 

translating laboratory research into commercial products 

is one of the school’s strengths. “if you don’t understand 

every detail of a nano-system you can’t scale it up,” explained Professor simon Benita, 

former director of the school of Pharmacy. “We also have a great deal of experience in 

developing products from the research stage through manufacturing.” this expertise 

melds with the strengths of the world-famous cleveland clinic, where scientists excel at 

biomedical engineering and clinical investigation. 

LEFT: The Harvey M. Krueger 

adding to the success of the new partnership are the capabilities of the Hebrew 

Family Center 

University’s Harvey M. Krueger family center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. the 

ABOVE: The laboratory of 

HUcNN has a state-of-the-art infrastructure conducive to interdisciplinary research, 

PROFESSSOR SIMON BENITA 

collaborations within academia and industry and the efficient commercialization of products. 

Units for Nanocharacterization and Nanofabrication provide nanotechnological services 

and facilities to researchers throughout the Hebrew University and israel; the cutting-edge 

continues on next page 

www.afhu.org 

afhu news | 5

LEADING THE WAY IN NANOMEDICINE 

units will similarly advance the work of the center for transformative Nanomedicine. 

an initial $15 million dollar first-stage fundraising campaign is being propelled by 

afHU, the Hebrew University and cleveland clinic. “for the Hebrew University the 

commitment is the largest ever made in a joint fund raising project,” stated Professor 

isaiah (shy) arkin, Vice President for research and development, adding that the idea 

was the brainchild of Victor cohn, co-chair of the 

nanomedicine campaign. taking the lead on this exciting 

endeavor, Victor cohn and his family have generously 

pledged $2 million to help make the center a reality and 

enable this innovative research. 

“several years ago i visited the Harvey Krueger center for 

Nanoscience,“ Victor cohn remarked. “i was so impressed by 

Hebrew University’s development of nanotechnology that i 

wanted to connect the university with a cleveland hospital 

and research center working on developing drug delivery through nanotechnology. My 

wife ellen and i have been involved with cleveland clinic, one of the best hospitals in 

the world, and its Lerner research center. i realized that great things would happen if 

i helped to make this incomparable alliance.” 

Hebrew University’s faculty of Medicine, which includes the school of Pharmacy, has 

a record of commercial successes, including the world’s first nano-drug, doxil, created 

by Professor chezi Barenholz and Professor alberto Gabizon. doxil is widely used in 

cancer chemotherapy. 

the latest innovation, ikervis, was developed by Professor Benita and is a unique 

nano-delivery system for anti-inflammatory eye drops. Professor Benita is currently 

developing a nano-sized drug delivery system that can target individual cancer 

cells, overcoming the problems associated with chemotherapeutic agents. the 

nano-product locks onto a chemical found only on the surface of cancerous cells 

especially those in lung cancer, and delivers a nano-dose of a toxic drug into the 

cell itself. Having demonstrated its efficacy in a pre-clinical model, this nano-product is 

being readied for the next stage of development. 

“The cross-fertilization of ideas, combined with 

Israel’s unique entrepreneurial spirit, helps to make 

The Hebrew University a superlative partner 

for Cleveland Clinic.” 

– PROFESSOR SHY ARKIN 

BELOW LEFT: Campaign 

co-chair VICTOR COHN with 

wife ELLEN at the October 

12th ceremony 

BELOW: Lead scientists for 

the groundbreaking 

partnership: HU PROFESSORS’ 

SIMON BENITA and SHY ARKIN 

with GEOFFREY VINCE, Ph.D. 

and STEPHEN GROBMYER, M.D. 

of the Cleveland Clinic 



Utilizing a different approach, Professor abraham rubinstein is 

adapting a nano-delivery system to carry fluorescent biomarkers into 

the abdominal regions for the identification of cancer cells. Based on 

successful preliminary studies, the system is being developed for testing 

during surgery. cancer cells will be visualized with different color 

flashing fluorescent markers, enabling the surgeon to either remove or 

target them with a cytotoxic drug aimed at cancer cell destruction. 

added nano-products are in the pipeline at the school of Pharmacy. 

“this is what makes collaboration with the cleveland clinic so exciting,” 

explains dr. Galia Blum, who specializes in nano-products that can 

be used in improving understanding of the inflammatory processes 

associated with cancer, atherosclerosis and arthritis. dr. Blum 

Visit www.afhu.org/nanomedicine 

has focused on using nano-scale probes to investigate atherosclerosis, to view a video about this outstanding 

where plaques in the wall of blood vessels can cause narrowing of 

new partnership 

the arteries and are life-threatening if they rupture. Using specially 

designed probes that can be visualized through the use of optical 

scanners, scientists have been able to distinguish between stable plaques and those 

susceptible to rupture. dr. Blum is working to create nano-scale probes with the aim 

of developing a clinical diagnostic tool that can target vulnerable plaques. 

inroads are likewise occurring in the area of neurology: dr. sara eyal uses specially 

designed nano-particles to target the sites of inflammation associated with epilepsy, 

enabling detailed studies of the processes involved. these particles can be 

fluorescent and visualized optically via the use of a special microscope during 

neurosurgery. they can be instilled with magnetic properties, allowing for non-invasive 

viewing through use of an Mri. this vital diagnostic tool has the potential to 

incorporate targeted drug therapies. 

often, school of Pharmacy experts are members of the Krueger center. “the 

cross-fertilization of ideas, combined with israel’s unique entrepreneurial spirit,” states 

Professor shy arkin, “helps to make the Hebrew University a superlative partner 

for cleveland clinic.” 



The Sachs Family Faculty Development Chair 

in Brain Sciences 

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem recently 

established its first faculty development chair 

thanks to the commitment of Herb and Keith 

sachs, afHU leaders and Hebrew University 

Benefactors whose generosity will propel 

the work of an outstanding new faculty member at the 

edmond and Lily safra center for Brain sciences (eLsc). 

“it seemed logical to make a 

gift that would support both 

“It seemed logical to make a gift that would 

cutting-edge brain sciences 

and the recruitment of a support both cutting-edge brain sciences and the 

brilliant new faculty member,” recruitment of a brilliant new faculty member” 

said Keith. “interdisciplinary 

–KEITH SACHS 

neuroscience is an area of 

expertise for the university, 

and there is an acute need to recruit young faculty to 

replace retiring senior professors,” remarked Herb. 

Between 2014 and 2020, approximately 220 Hebrew 

University professors are retiring across seven faculties, 

with the greatest attrition occurring in the humanities, 

natural sciences and medicine. responsive to the need to 

replenish israel’s brain trust, Herb and Keith sachs have 

established a named chair for $1.25 million, providing 

immediate funds for a state-of-the-art laboratory and an 

endowment generating long-term funding for added 

resources. once the incumbent of the sachs family chair 

in faculty development rises to a senior-level position, 

another top new recruit will be awarded the prestigious 

chair. this gift perpetuates research excellence and gives 

Hebrew University a competitive edge in a global 

academic “market” where israeli intellectual 

talent is coveted, creating the problem of 

brain drain. 

data indicates that israeli academics working 

in the U.s. during 2003-2004 represented 

24.9% of the entire senior staff in israel’s 

academic institutions; by contrast, the Netherlands only 

lost 4.3% of its scholars to american universities during 

this period. enabling scientists to build their careers 

in israel is crucial, and american friends have the 

opportunity to establish a faculty development chair in 

the field of their choosing. Herb and Keith sachs chose 

brain sciences based on the reputation of eLsc and the 

$50 million safra family challenge grant to launch eLsc. 

the sachs brothers readily admit that other disciplines 

are equally compelling. 

stated afHU National executive director, Beth Mccoy: 

“two remarkable leaders, Keith and Herb, have always been 

on the cutting-edge of investment philanthropy. their 

support for cancer research, computer science and brain 

science innovation is benefiting our world and attests to 

their long-range vision.” 

Herb and Keith have an 

enviably close relationship, 

and this deep friendship 

infuses many aspects 

of their lives. Born in 

chicago to Bernard and 

Mary sachs, the boys lost 

their mom to Hodgkin’s disease when Herb was just 

10 years old and Keith was 13. Bernard, an immigrant, 

inspired them in many ways. starting out in the glass bottle 

business, he moved the household to Philadelphia, 

and the family firm, National Bottle, expanded its 

manufacturing of glass containers. eventually Bernard 

owned four factories. 

an alumnus of U. Penn’s Wharton school, Keith was 

in his second year at Harvard Law when his dad passed 

away at the age of 62. Keith left Harvard immediately 

to run National Bottle. When Herb graduated from 

Wharton, he joined Keith. Keith served as chairman and 

ceo, handling finance, administration 

and business development, and 

Herb became president, leading sales 

and marketing. 

in 1981, the thriving company was sold. 

the brothers formed saxco international, 

a worldwide distributor of bottles and 

packaging for the alcoholic beverage 

industry. recently, saxco international was 

acquired by the sterling Group. 

throughout their careers, Herb and Keith lived in close 

proximity. Both wedded their sweethearts from U. Penn, 

alice (Herb) and Kathy (Keith), and raised their families 

in rydal, Pennsylvania. civic engagement and Jewish 

affiliation were integral to the family dynamic. 

“our concern for israel starts with the fact that our 

dad lost all of his immediate family in the Holocaust,” 



states Keith. “Never again.” He and Herb agree that 

brainpower is fundamental to israel’s ability to prevail 

and make substantial contributions to the world. 

Keith’s involvement with Hebrew University dates back 

to the 1970s, when he 

became President of the 

Philadelphia chapter 

of afHU. He subsequently 

served as chairman, 

President, and as a Governor 

of the Hebrew University’s 

Board of Governors. He has 

been honored with the National scopus award (1990), 

and received an Honorary doctorate (2003). the Keith 

sachs Wing in the building housing 

HU’s computer science program was 

named by afHU’s Philadelphia 

chapter in tribute to his leadership. 

on a visit to the university, Keith 

and Herb met Professor amnon 

shashua, the inventor of the 

revolutionary Mobileye 

car navigation technology. 

recognizing that “amnon 

was doing incredibly 

significant things,” in 

2006 they established 

the sachs family chair 

in computer science 

and engineering, with 

Professor shashua as 

incumbent. When 

Mobileye went public, 

its $890 million iPo was 

the largest in the history 

of israeli startup 

companies. today, 

Professor shashua is 

refining his technology for 

driverless cars. 

Herb and Keith made their 

first major gift to the university 

“Einstein expressed the idea that he didn’t know 

what would happen to Palestine as a precursor 

to Israel, were it not for Hebrew University.” 

in memory of their beloved parents: the Bernard L. and 

Mary t. sachs chair in cancer studies, established in 

1997, is held by Professor shulamit Katzav-shapira. 

“We love the research she is pursuing—enabling the 

body’s immune system 

to fight cancer,” says Keith, 

who is proud that 

Professor Katzav-shapira 

was in the forefront 

of immunology, studying 

–HERB SACHS 

the involvement of the 

Vav oncogene in human 

malignancies such as lymphoma, breast cancer and 

prostate cancer. 

Herb cites HU’s pivotal role in shaping a modern Jewish 

state. “einstein expressed the idea that he didn’t 

know what would happen to Palestine as a 

precursor to israel, were it not for Hebrew 

University.” Herb recalls that his dad was 

friends with sam rothberg (z”l), chairman of 

Hebrew University’s Board of Governors and 

afHU President during the late 

1960s and early 70s. a prime 

architect of the american Jewish 

community’s abiding relationship 

with israel, sam mobilized 

support to enhance the 

university’s growth. 

Mindful of past leaders 

and their impact, Herb and 

Keith are propelling advances 

in medicine, brain sciences 

and technology. they also 

provide philanthropic leadership 

to important U.s. institutions. 

Keith and Kathy are major 

contributors to the Philadelphia 

Museum of art and U. Penn. 

Herb and alice established the 

Mary t. sachs Breast center at 

Pennsylvania’s abington Memorial 

Hospital. 

HERB and KEITH SACHS 



Faculty Development 

Chair: Supporting New 

Faculty Recruitment 

DR. AMIT ZORAN 

DR. EFRAT SHEFFER 

DR. INBAL GOSHEN 

t 

here 

are many ways to keep israel in the forefront 

of global scientific achievement. the Hebrew University 

is working to attract dozens of talented new faculty each 

year. these rising academic stars are replacing retiring 

senior faculty and pursuing cutting-edge research projects. 

american friends can help to provide vital resources for them. 

Among the outstanding new faculty: 

at the Benin school of computer science and engineering, 

Dr. Amit Zoran is working on Human-computer interaction 

aimed at formulating a connection between design, 

innovation and human skills. Previously, dr. Zoran was a 

postdoctoral fellow at Mit. “through my work, i want my 

fellow engineers to understand our responsibility to society: 

to maintain the values of our cultural heritage as we merge 

them with modern technology,” said dr. Zoran. 

a leading young biologist, Dr. Efrat Sheffer, joined the 

robert H. smith institute of Plant sciences at the smith 

faculty of agriculture, food and environment. dr. sheffer 

conducted her postdoctoral research at Princeton University’s 

department of ecology and evolutionary Biology. she 

investigates how plants acquire nutrients based on the 

conditions prevalent in their ecosystems; this work is 

particularly important when water supplies are limited. 

Dr. Inbal Goshen completed her postdoctoral fellowship 

at stanford and is leading a new laboratory at the 

edmond and Lily safra center for Brain sciences. Using 

the latest methods in optogenetics, she studies the effect 

of Glia cells on neuronal circuits that underlie cognitive 

and emotional behavior, with the goal of advancing 

human health. 

Dr. Yonatan Tzur recently joined the silberman institute 

of Life sciences after working as a postdoctoral fellow 

in the Genetics department of Harvard Medical school. dr. 

tzur is researching the genetic, cellular and environmental 

causes of early female infertility. dr. tzur explained: 

“the top facilities at Hebrew University put me in a place 

where i can be at the frontline of this scientific field.” 

To learn more about how you can support Israel’s 

brain trust, please contact an afhu development 

professional in your region. Visit us online at 

www.afhu.org. 

DR. YONATAN TZUR 



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www.afhu.org AFHU NEWS | 11

The Lautenberg Center: Building for Tomorrow 

The Lautenberg Center for Immunology and 

Cancer Research at the Hebrew University of 

Jerusalem is poised for a vitally needed expansion. 

an historic renovation campaign will create a 

complex with nine upgraded laboratories at the 

faculty of Medicine. the new quarters will expand basic 

and translational research, foster faculty recruitment, and 

provide research opportunities for graduate students and 

post-docs. scientists will pursue 

their investigations into lifethreatening 

diseases: among 

these are breast, liver, colon, 

blood and bone cancers, HiV-1, 

polyoma virus and human 

cytomegalovirus infections, 

rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes 

and Multiple sclerosis. 

the concern foundation of 

Los angeles has been raising 

and distributing funds for 

immunology research worldwide. 

since its inception in 1968, 

concern (an acronym for 

conquer cancer Now), has 

provided essential support for 

Lautenberg center researchers. 

concern’s president, derek 

alpert, states: “We’re determined 

to help find effective means to 

manage cancer as a chronic 

illness. We really admire the Rendering of a new Lautenberg Center laboratory 

collaborative spirit of Lautenberg 

center researchers and their out-of-the-box thinking.” 

to accelerate progress and increase the Lautenberg 

center’s capabilities, the concern foundation has made a 

magnanimous lead gift of $1.5 million to name the new 

laboratory complex. “the 

first funds that concern ever 

raised in the U.s. went toward 

“We really admire the collaborative spirit 

Lautenberg center research 

when the center was headed of Lautenberg Center researchers and 

by dr. david Weiss, who was 

their out-of-the-box thinking.” 

recruited from Uc Berkeley,” 

– DEREK ALPERT, Concern Foundation 

said derek. “the science 

that david pursued is still 

important today, and Professor eitan yefenof and the 

entire research team share david’s vision.” 

eager for this physical upgrade, derek commented: 

“World-class scientists must have a home equipped 

with cutting-edge tools, and concern foundation is 

committed to making this happen while providing funding 

for cancer researchers now and in the future.” 

in the 1960s, the Hebrew University had academic units 

for the study of microbiology and bacteriology, but lacked 

a unit focused on immunology—broadly defined as the 

study of how the body fights bacterial and viral infections. 

dr. Weiss spearheaded a multidisciplinary immunology 

department which achieved “center” status in 1973. 

dr. Weiss expanded the study of immunology to include 

cancer. the center was named in honor of frank 

Lautenberg (z"l) who was to become the U.s. senator 

from New Jersey. senator Lautenberg and New Jersey 

business leader Paul M. densen (z”l) launched successful 

fundraising outreach on behalf of his work. 

Beth Mccoy, National executive 

director of afHU, lauds these 

efforts: “it takes a lot of truly 

dedicated people to fight a 

disease as pernicious as cancer. 

the concern foundation, 

Michael Kurtz, the densen family 

and other american friends have 

contributed to groundbreaking achievements.” 

Lautenberg center director, Professor eitan yefenof, holds 

the Bertha and Max densen chair in cancer immunology 

and serves as President of the israeli society for cancer 

research. Professor yefenof describes how thinking 

has evolved on the subject of cancer. “instead of asking 



PROFESSOR OFER MANDELBOIM 

and his laboratory team 

ourselves why do one out of every three people develop 

cancer, we started asking why do two-thirds of the 

population remain cancer-free? We all possess cancer 

genes, but most people have robust immunity protecting 

them. We are working to learn how the body recognizes 

malignant cells and mounts a powerful defense. there 

are multiple ways to fight cancer cell growth; it doesn’t 

have to be all about chemotherapy and radiation.” 

among Lautenberg center achievements are 

discoveries that led to Gleevec, a blockbuster medication 

commercialized by Novartis. Gleevec is used to treat 

chronic myelocytic leukemia (cML) and stems from the 

early studies of Professor yinon Ben-Neriah, who identified 

the sequence of the cML cancer 

gene (Bcr-abl), needed to 

formulate Gleevec. 

critical knowledge needed for 

targeted therapy has been gained 

in recent years. ofer Mandelboim, 

the dr. edward crown Professor of 

General and tumor immunology, 

has received more than $5 million in european research 

council (erc) grants for his insights into the function 

of Natural Killer (NK) cells. NK cells can detect a variety of 

dangerous pathogens and cells. a Kaye Prize winner 

(June 2015), Professor Mandelboim has been investigating 

Bl-9020, a novel monoclonal antibody with the 

potential to treat type 1 diabetes. His work led to the 

establishment of BioLinerX, a biopharmaceutical 

company. 

Professor eli Pikarsky specializes in liver cancer and 

has discovered molecules involved in stimulating 

inflammatory responses; he has developed an antidote 

to reduce this virulent cancer-trigger. dr. Michael Berger 

studies t-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a cancer 

that takes its toll on children. dr. Berger is working to 

create gene therapy that may help regulate aberrant 

t-cell behavior. 

equally concerned about cancers that afflict children, 

Professor rami aqeilan is studying pediatric osteosarcoma, 

a bone cancer. Professor aqeilan also researches breast 

cancer and studies the WWoX molecule thought to be a 

“We are working to learn how the body 

recognizes malignant cells and 

mounts a powerful defense.” 

tumor suppressor. Professor Michal Baniyash, who 

holds the Harold B. abramson Memorial fund chair in 

immunology, is tackling autoimmune diseases and cancer. 

she has found that certain natural biomarkers reveal 

important information about a patient’s immune system 

and may help in designing personalized treatments. 

Michael Kurtz, chairman of afHU’s board, chairman of 

the Lautenberg center endowment, and a Governor of 

Hebrew University’s Board of Governors, has championed 

this work for decades. states Michael: “our researchers 

in israel are driven by a passion to treat and prevent 

cancer. they could work in the finest institutions in 

america, but they return after their post doctoral studies 

so they can achieve their 

breakthroughs at the center.” 

Being adjacent to the Hebrew 

University-Hadassah Hospital 

optimizes bench-to-bedside 

medicine, and two members of 

the center head departments 

at the hospital: Professor eli 

Pikarsky directs the Pathology department and Professor 

dana Woolf leads the department of clinical Virology. 

the findings of these talented scientists are published 

in international journals. awards and competitive grants 

flow from the israeli science foundation, the european 

research council, NiH, the Wolfson foundation and 

other leading organizations. excellence in research is 

compounded by cost-effectiveness. “donors get 

tremendous value because research costs approximately 

one-third less if conducted in israel,” says Michael. 

derek alpert cites other advantages. “in countries such 

as israel, sweden and Germany, researchers have the 

scientific freedom to pursue stem cell research and other 

innovative approaches. there is a faster route to clinical 

application for new therapies than in the U.s. this counts 

when patients are racing against time.” 

there are many ways to participate in the quest for 

improved human health, including by providing support 

for individual research laboratories, which are available 

for naming. Please contact afhu to learn about 

life-saving research at the Lautenberg Center. 

–PROFESSOR EITAN YEFENOF 


HU RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS 

Hebrew University and Hadassah Medical Center 

To Establish Middle East’s Leading Autism Center 

Hebrew University and Hadassah Medical center will establish the first Middle 

east interdisciplinary university-based autism center. the autism center 

is a collaborative effort bridging several faculties within the Hebrew University 

and Hadassah Medical center, anchored in HU’s faculty of Medicine. 

the autism center will incorporate cutting-edge research, clinical services, 

state-of-the-art training and education for professionals and parents in the 

community. 

Scientists Develop a New Method to Suppress Malaria Genes 

At Hebrew University’s faculty of Medicine, Professor ron dzikowski 

and his Ph.d. student, inbar amit-avraham, exposed the genetic 

trickery of the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, which causes a devastating 

form of human malaria that is especially known to compromise the 

health of children and pregnant women. 

Professor dzikowski stated, “Understanding the mechanisms by which 

the parasite evades immunity takes us closer to finding ways to either 

block this ability, or force the parasite to expose its entire antigenic 

repertoire and thus allow the human immune system to overcome the 

disease.” these important new findings may help pave the way toward 

new therapies and effective malaria vaccines. 

Researchers Discover How Octopuses Get Their ‘Move’ On 

The body of an octopus is unique, with a sophisticated brain in a soft, bilaterally symmetrical body, 

encircled by eight symmetrical and very flexible arms. as reported in the New york times 

(april 20, 2015), HU researchers conducted the first detailed motion analysis, demonstrating that the animals 

have a unique motor control strategy to match their “odd” form. 

after analyzing videos of octopuses moving, frame by frame, the researchers made 

several surprising discoveries. despite its bilaterally symmetrical body, the octopus can 

crawl in any direction relative to its body orientation. the orientation of its body and 

crawling direction are independently controlled, and its crawling lacks obvious 

rhythmical patterns in limb coordination. 

Professor Binyamin Hochner, Professor Guy Levy and their colleagues illustrated that this 

uncommon maneuverability of octopuses results from the radial symmetry of their arms and the 

simple mechanism by which the arms create the crawling thrust: pushing-by-elongation. 

The octopus - master 

of smooth moves 

DR. YUVAL TABACH 


Mystery DNA Deciphered by Israeli Professor’s Software 

As featured in Haaretz (august 18, 2015), dr. yuval tabach, a researcher 

at Hebrew University’s faculty of Medicine, created an internet tool that 

helps scientists understand what dNa does and how it functions. the software is 

based on evolutionary profiling: how a gene changes through evolution. the 

revolutionary software can interpret mysterious genetic sequences by seeing what 

they do in other life forms. 


3D Digital Scanning Takes a Bite Out of Denture-Fitting Time 

Biodesign: Medical innovation program, a joint initiative of the Hebrew University and the 

Hadassah Medical center, developed a new technology, Holodent, which is revolutionizing 

the denture fitting process. co-founder and ceo of the award-winning start-up company, 

Biodesign fellow amit Zilberstein, describes Holodent as the first holography scanning device for 

intraoral 3d modeling. the innovation reduces the denture process from 30 days to 30 minutes, while making the 

treatment more comfortable for patients. Holodent also aims to improve the accessibility of accurate denture fitting 

for people in developing countries, since Holodent is a cost-effective digital alternative to having a dentist on-site. 

HU Professor Says Open Sesame Seed Production 

Sesame seeds are more than just a hamburger bun 

garnish, according to HU agricultural researcher 

and Kaye Prize winner, dr. Zvi Peleg. dr. Peleg discovered 

a way to increase the yield and nutritional quality of 

this crop. By screening more than 100,000 sesame seed 

variants, he created an elite sesame cultivar with 

enhanced yield and seed quality. dr. Peleg’s innovation 

also allows farmers to use sesame as part of their 

The many colorful varieties of sesame seeds 

crop rotation, an approach that contributes to 

sustainability and helps prevent the development of 

herbicide-resistant weeds. 

there is also an increase in global demand for sesame 

as a health food. a sesame seed contains about 20 

percent protein and is rich in essential nutrients such 

as iron, zinc and calcium. 

Researchers Learn to Measure the Aging Process in Young Adults 

DR. SALOMON ISRAEL 

Aresearch partnership between the U.s., United Kingdom, israel and New Zealand has found a 

way to measure the aging process in young adults—a much younger population than is usually 

tested. Working with study participants aged 26-38, the international scientists identified factors 

that can determine whether people are aging faster or more slowly than their peers and calculate 

both their biological age and speed of aging. 

study co-author and researcher in HU’s department of Psychology, dr. salomon israel, said 

that accelerated aging in young adults predicts symptoms of advanced aging seen in older adults. 

the ability to measure how quickly a young person is aging may enable scientists to develop 

interventions that slow aging and target age-related diseases. 

Qlight Displays Bright Future 

The German group Merck, which operates in 

pharmaceuticals, biotech and materials, acquired Qlight 

Nanotech. Qlight is a nanotechnology company that 

developed a nanocrystal which converts light frequencies 

to other frequencies with a minimum energy loss, thereby 

improving liquid crystal display (Lcd) screens and Led 

lighting. Qlight was founded in 2009, based on technology 

developed in Professor Uri Banin’s laboratory at Hebrew 

University and commercialized by yissum. 

PROFESSOR URI BANIN, center, accepts the award for Qlight at the 

NanoIsrael 2014 conference 


HU RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS 

Engineers Without Borders 

Farmer training team 

The robert H. smith faculty of agriculture, food and environment’s engineers 

Without Borders chapter, composed of students, researchers and alumni, 

works on sustainable agricultural development. its project in Mekelle, ethiopia, 

is improving local farmers’ agricultural knowledge. the project also focuses on 

enhancing agricultural yields through improved irrigation methods, hybrid seeds, 

fertilizers, pest control and better agro-technical methods. at the demonstration 

site, these farmers grow tomatoes, onions and lettuce, yielding ten-fold that 

of adjacent farms. 

HU Scientists Create Liver Cells from Stem Cells 

Watching his newborn daughter feed for the first time greatly affected 

Professor yaakov Nahmias, the director of the alexander Grass center for 

Bioengineering. realizing the moment that his daughter’s liver started working, 

Professor Nahmias attempted to mimic this part of human development. 

He and his team successfully produced large amounts of functional liver cells 

from human embryonic and genetically engineered stem cells. 

Liver cells 

Breakthrough Could Lead to Artificial Retinas for Visually Impaired 

Scientists developed a new light-sensitive film that may help develop a prosthetic 

retina. Professor Uri Banin, the alfred & erica Larisch Memorial chair in solar energy, 

and his graduate student Nir Waiskopf, at the institute of chemistry and the Harvey M. 

Krueger family center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, collaborated with israeli 

and British colleagues to develop a novel approach for retina stimulation. their device 

absorbs light and stimulates neurons without using wires or external power sources. 

LEFT: Carbon nanotube-semiconductor nanocrystals film for light stimulation 

of the retina. Absorption of light by semiconductor nanorods attached to 

carbon nanotube film (upper right) results in retina stimulation (upper left). 

NYC Taxis Will Install Mobileye 

To Improve Safety 

New york city created its Vision Zero program to decrease 

car accidents. as a part Vision Zero, the city started 

using Mobileye technology. Mobileye monitors driving and 

alerts drivers when they are tailgating, veering out of lanes 

and turning without signaling. the technology can also alert 

drivers when they get too close to a pedestrian or cyclist, or 

detect debris, curbs, constructions zones, lights and specific 

signs. if a driver doesn’t seem like he will brake in time, 

Mobileye will. When this occurs, an alarm will bring the 

violation to the driver’s attention, instilling caution. 

PROFESSOR AMNON SHASHUA, creator of Mobileye 



Unique Entry Corridor Discovered 

at Herodian Hilltop Palace 

Hebrew University institute of archaeology 

specialists discovered a monumental 

entryway to the Herodian Hilltop Palace at the 

Herodium National Park. the complex was 

uncovered during excavations by the Herodium 

expedition in Memory of Professor ehud Netzer. 

the archaeologists suggest the corridor was 

part of Herod’s plan to turn Herodium into 

a massive volcano-shaped hill, a monument 

designed to commemorate the king. 

Entry corridor to the Herodian Hilltop Palace 

TEDxJerusalem 

In april 2015, 1,000 people at the Hebrew University of 

Jerusalem participated in an educational, inspirational 

and entertaining day: tedxJerusalem. tedxJerusalem is 

a four-day, independently organized conference where 

experts in varied fields give presentations lasting a 

maximum of 18 minutes. 

Hebrew University Professor oded shoseyov of the 

robert H. smith faculty of agriculture, food and 

environment discussed his research on plant molecular 

biology, protein engineering and nano-biotechnology. dr. 

ayelet Landau spoke about brain rhythm and attention. 

PROFESSOR ODED SHOSEYOV 

A ‘GPS’ to Navigate the Brain’s 

Neuronal Networks 

Scientists from dr. alex Binshtok’s lab at Hebrew University’s faculty 

of Medicine and dr. Jeff Lichtman’s laboratory at Harvard 

University identified a “Neuronal Positioning system” (NPs) that maps 

brain circuitry, in much the same way a Global Positioning system 

(GPs) receiver triangulates a person’s location. 

Brain circuits perform functions such as processing information and 

triggering reflexes. they are comprised of nervous system cells called 

neurons that work together to carry out a function. Neurons send the 

messages to other neurons, or target tissues such as skin and muscle, 

stimulating them via specialized wire-like processes called axons. the 

NPs now makes it possible to learn about organizational principles of 

neuronal networks in the brain. 


Using a GPS to navigate the brain’s circuitry 


ACCOLADES 

Hebrew University Top Ranked 

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is ranked #1in israel and #3 in asia, 

and rose three places to #67 among the 500 top universities in the world, in the 

2015 academic ranking of World Universities (arWU). the annual survey, conducted 

by the center for World-class Universities of shanghai Jiao tong University, is 

considered to be the most objective and respected of all global academic rankings. 

The 2015 Rappaport Prize for Excellence in Medical Research 

Professor Hermona soreq, the charlotte slesinger Professor of Molecular Neuroscience 

at Hebrew University’s edmond and Lily safra center for Brain sciences, received 

the 2015 rappaport Prize for excellence in Medical research. Professor soreq was 

recognized for her work on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine’s role in both health 

and disease in the brain and other organs, and for her interdisciplinary research related 

to neurobiology. Professor soreq is Vice dean for research & development at the faculty 

of science and a director of yissum, HU’s technology transfer company. 

DR. AMI CITRI 

The 2015 Adelis Brain Research Award 

Dr. ami citri of the edmond and Lily safra center for Brain sciences received the 

adelis Brain research award for his progress in the field of experience-dependent 

plasticity and its impact on diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. the 

citri Laboratory was recognized for developing unique, multi-disciplinary approaches 

to studying the encoding of experiences in the brain and the development of a special 

system to study the basis of selective attention. the adelis award supports research 

that will significantly advance knowledge of the brain. 

Braun School of Public Health Awarded International Accreditation 

The Hebrew University-Hadassah Braun school of Public Health and community Medicine was awarded full 

accreditation by the agency for Public Health education accreditation (aPHea). since its inception in 1961, the 

Braun school has cultivated an integrated multidisciplinary environment that facilitates excellence in teaching, 

research, and creative academic activity, preparing public health professionals for careers in israel and in 

communities around the globe. the Braun school also earned aPHea curriculum Validation for its two Masters 

of Public Health degree programs. aPHea accreditation requires a rigorous peer-review process which assesses 

the quality of public health schools and programs. 

NASA Includes Israeli Scientist’s Challenge 

in International Competition 

PROFESSOR HERMONA SOREQ 

Professor alon Peled of HU’s department of Political science is the first israeli to have 

his entry selected by Nasa for its international space apps challenge. during april 2015, 

45 software developers from the U.s. and seven additional countries labored to solve 

Professor Peled’s challenge — how to make Nasa’s vast information assets more readily 

accessible online to individuals and groups working in non-space domains. Professor Peled’s 

challenge is based on his book, traversing digital Babel – information, e-Government, 

and exchange, and on his Public sector information exchange research project, a leading 

Hebrew University initiative in the field of “Big data.” 

18 | afhu news www.afhu.org

The Israel Prize: 2015 

Six of the fifteen israel Prizes awarded in 2015 were conferred upon Hebrew University faculty and alumni. 

the highest honor awarded by the state of israel, the prize is presented annually to israeli citizens or 

organizations in recognition of excellence in their respective fields, or vital contributions to israeli culture. this 

year’s israel Prize laureates are: 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY FACULTY 

Professor Emeritus Zvi Schiffrin – Studies of the Far East 

Professor emeritus Zvi schiffrin, a leading historian of modern chinese history, was recognized for his research 

on the revolution in china and its leaders. Professor schiffrin is considered the father of east asian studies in israel, 

having established that department at Hebrew University in 1968 and served as its director. 

Professor David Weisburd – Social Work and Criminological Research 

Professor david Weisburd, the Walter e. Meyer Professor of Law and criminal Justice, was recognized for his 

groundbreaking research on place-based law enforcement, which has demonstrated the importance of focusing 

police crime resources on hot spots, such as street blocks. Professor Weisburd is one of the world’s most 

prominent researchers in the field of criminology. 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY ALUMNI 

Professor Emeritus Shmuel Ahituv – Biblical Research 

a leading Bible scholar and HU graduate, Professor shmuel ahituv of Ben Gurion University, was acknowledged for 

his significant contributions to the study of the history of the people of israel in biblical times and to the interpretation 

of biblical literature. 

Professor Shimon Ullman – Mathematics and Computer Science Research 

HU graduate, Professor shimon Ullman of the Weizmann institute of science, was commended for his “far-reaching 

contributions to artificial intelligence and general cognition, particularly in the field of computer vision, and his 

significant contribution to the development of the high-tech industry in israel.” 

Professor Zelig Eshar – Life Sciences Research 

HU graduate, Professor Zelig eshar of the Weizmann institute, received the israel Prize for his discovery and 

development of a breakthrough approach to the treatment of diseases, including cancer. this work has led to 

the development of new generations of biological drugs for other malignant diseases. 

Erez Biton – Poetry and Hebrew Literature 

erez Biton is the first poet of Mizrahi descent to win the israel Prize in Literature. His works of poetry were cited 

by the award committee as the “epitome of courageous dealings, sensitive and deep with a wide range of 

personal and collective experiences centered around the pain of migration, planting roots in the country and 

the reestablishment of the Mizrahi identity as an integral part of the overall israeli portrait.” 


AFHU Welcomes Ambassador Yossi Gal 

ambassador yossi Gal, a graduate of the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem, is assuming the 

role of Hebrew University Vice President for 

advancement and external relations. 

a career diplomat, he most recently served 

israel as the nation’s ambassador to france and 

Monaco (2010-2015) and previously was posted 

to Washington, d.c. twice, as director of the 

ambassador’s office (1976-1981) and as 

spokesman of the embassy (1985-1989). He 

served as israel’s ambassador to the Netherlands 

from 1995-2001. He has lectured throughout 

the world and published articles in the french 

and U.s. media. 

ambassador Gal launched his foreign service 

career in 1975. He fulfilled varied responsibilities 

at the Ministry of foreign affairs, including as 

director of the information department and 

deputy director-General for communications, 

participating in peace negotiations with israel’s 

neighbors and chairing the israeli delegation to the 

multilateral peace talks on the environment. 

He then headed the Press and communications 

department at the Prime Minister's office, 

served as deputy 

director-General 

for economic 

affairs, and 

was ultimately 

promoted to 

director General 

of israel’s Ministry 

of foreign 

affairs. 

extensively 

involved in 

international 

relations, 

ambassador Gal 

participated in 

the Madrid Peace AMBASSADOR YOSSI GAL 

conference, was 

a member of the peace negotiating team with 

Jordan and the Palestinians, headed the process 

of israel’s adherence to the organization for 

economic co-operation and development (oecd) 

and led the negotiations on upgrading relations 

with the european Union. 

A PRIVATE RECEPTION WITH PRESIDENT RIVLIN 

on June 1, 2015, 

american friends 

had a special 

opportunity to 

meet with reuven 

rivlin, israel’s 

10th president, 

during a private 

reception and 

tour at his official 

residence in 

Jerusalem. 


The 78th Annual 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 

International Board of Governors Meeting 

Honorary Doctorate 

JOYCE BRANDMAN 

Joyce Brandman of Los angeles, california, is known in 

the United states and israel for her steadfast leadership 

in support of the Hebrew University and her inspiring 

impact on others. Joyce and her beloved late husband 

saul (z”l), through the work of the saul and Joyce 

Brandman foundation, has helped hundreds of charities 

and nonprofit organizations to improve the lives of 

people in many parts of the world. 

Joyce is a Governor of the university’s international 

Board of Governors, an afHU National Board Member 

and immediate past President of the Western region. 

in 2010 she received an Honorary fellowship from the 

university in recognition of her humanitarianism and 

support for cutting-edge scientific research. 

a driving force in the development of afHU’s Western 

region, Joyce is a member of the National campaign 

committee and helps to develop the resources for 

priorities such as Hebrew University faculty recruitment 

and student scholarships. the Brandman foundation 

chair in cardiac and Pulmonary diseases is facilitating 

life-saving work, and the Brandman Laboratory Building 

on the edmond J. safra campus is a state-of-the-art 

teaching and research facility. 

a hands-on philanthropic leader, Joyce epitomizes the 

ideal of volunteerism in the service of others. as President 

of the saul and Joyce Brandman foundation, which 

provides funding to diverse medical, educational and Jewish 

communal causes, Joyce travels annually to Guatemala 

to volunteer with HeLPs international, and volunteers with 

the Los angeles-based non-profit cedars-sinai Hospital. 

she counsels women with breast cancer, and works 

side-by-side with health care professionals. 

JOYCE BRANDMAN accepts her Honorary Doctorate from HU PRESIDENT, PROFESSOR MENAHEM BEN-SASSON and RECTOR, PROFESSOR ASHER COHEN 


The 78th Annual Hebrew University International Board of Governors Meeting 

Honorary Fellowships 

SHELDON HECHTMAN 

shelly Hechtman is a financial advisor and first Vice 

President of Morgan stanley Wealth Management and 

previously had a career in broadcast media and direct 

response marketing. the immediate past President of 

afHU’s southeast region Board, shelly is devoted to 

israel’s well-being and to the Hebrew University. He 

serves on afHU’s National Board, is a Governor of Hebrew 

University’s international Board of Governors and is a 

member of the Board of trustees of the Harry s. truman 

research institute for the advancement of Peace. 

a delray Beach, florida, resident, shelly is proactive 

about building relationships that advance the university’s 

work and raise its profile. Under his leadership, afHU’s 

southeast region annual Leadership education forum 

(aLef) attendance grew, making aLef a widely popular 

educational event that showcases Hebrew University 

achievements. 

SHELDON HECHTMAN and PROFESSOR MENAHEM BEN-SASSON 

shelly and his wife ellen Klersfeld, a member of afHU’s 

southeast region Board and National investment 

committee, and a Leader of distinction honoree, have 

made wide-ranging contributions, supporting the edmond 

and Lily safra center for Brain sciences, the Lautenberg 

center for immunology and cancer research and the 

truman institute, among other initiatives. 

DR. BENO MICHEL 

dr. Beno Michel of cleveland, ohio, and Palm Beach 

Gardens, florida, has been involved with afHU since the 

1980s. an afHU National Board of regents member, 

dr. Michel is a past President of afHU’s cleveland region. 

through his efforts, awareness of the Hebrew University 

has increased in communities such as frenchman’s creek 

in florida. this active lay leader has been an effective 

ambassador for afHU’s aLef in Palm Beach. 

At the Wall of Life 

DR. BENO MICHEL, Honorary Fellowship recipient, with PROFESSOR 

MENAHEM BEN-SASSON 

dr. Michel and his wife elaine have provided support 

for research and education at Hebrew University’s faculty 

of Medicine, creating the elaine and Beno Michel M.d. 

Graduate scholarship endowment fund for Pharmacology. 

afHU Guardians, the Michels are recognized on the 

Wall of Life. 

dr. Michel is well known in the field of clinical dermatology 

and developed a successful four-decade career. He is a 

clinical Professor of dermatology and assistant clinical 

Professor of Pathology at case Western reserve University. 


PIONEERING EXCELLENCE AT THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY: 

The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School for Advanced 

Studies in the Humanities 

Entrance to the new Mandel School building 

BARBARA A. MANDEL, AFHU Honorary President and Honorary Chairman, 

HU Board of Governors (center) with PROFESSOR MENAHEM BEN-SASSON 

and MICHAEL FEDERMANN, Chairman, HU Board of Governors 

Israel’s first graduate school in the humanities, the 

Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel school for advanced 

studies in the Humanities is creating vibrant communities 

of israeli and international graduate and postgraduate 

scholars engaged in pioneering interdisciplinary work. 

it took 15 years for the dream to come to fruition, 

inspired by the vision of Morton Mandel, who has 

maintained a longstanding commitment to achieving 

excellence in Jewish studies and expanding this pursuit 

in groundbreaking ways. Professor israel yuval, 

academic director of the Mandel school, shares 

this perspective: “Well-established and respected, 

Jewish studies must become part of the general 

discourse, with its distinctiveness highlighted within 

the context of the shared and the universal.” 

Mandated with developing new norms for research, 

Professor yuval became head of the unique Jewish 

research center that comprises two tracks: three-year 

interdisciplinary research groups of four senior and four 

doctoral scholars; and the Mandel scholars program, 

which annually awards three-year postdoctoral fellowships 

to two promising young scholars in Jewish studies or 

related areas. When the Mandel scholion-interdisciplinary 

research center in Jewish studies was established in 2002, 

its inaugural research group, Modes of canonization: 

the case of the cairo Genizah, was headed by current 

Hebrew University President, Professor Menahem 

Ben-sasson. 

in 2010, the Mandel foundation supported expanding 

the scope of scholion to capture the full breadth of the 

humanities. during the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s 

78th Board of Governors, a celebration was held 

in the beautiful new building on the Mount 

scopus campus. every form of scholarship 

takes place in this inspiring environment. 

“the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel 

school for advanced studies in the 

Humanities is a game-changer that 

allows the Hebrew University to reach 

new levels of excellence,” says faculty 

of Humanities dean, Professor dror 

Wahrman. 

Achieving the dream 



Benefactors 

SARAH JANE AND PAUL M. (z”l) DENSEN 

Paul M. densen (z”l) and sarah 

densen embody the spirit of 

tikkun olam in their shared 

dedication to Hebrew University 

for more than 40 years. their 

commitment to the Lautenberg 

center for immunology and 

cancer research has resulted 

in major research advances. 

Paul densen’s fundraising efforts 

in support of the Lautenberg 

center raised more than 

$20 million for research and 

expanded the center’s network 

of supporters. the New Jersey 

couple also endowed the 

Paul and sarah Jane densen 

scholarship and the Max and Bertha densen fellowship in 

memory of Paul’s beloved parents. 

Paul densen was director of the Valley National Bank 

of New Jersey for more than 40 years. a national scopus 

award honoree, Paul served as Vice President of afHU. 

He was an associate Governor of Hebrew University’s 

international Board of Governors and received an 

Honorary fellowship from the university. an admired civic 

leader, Paul was President of the West orange, New Jersey 

charter association and a member of the West orange 

economic development commitment committee. He 

Benefactor SARAH DENSEN with son ROB, grandson DAN and friends RENEE SPELMAN, 

RABBI STUART GERSHON and ALAN BECKER 

served on the Board of directors of the National 

conference of christians and Jews and was a member of 

the dialogue committee on inter-religious affairs at 

seton Hall. 

sarah densen has been an active volunteer on behalf of 

varied humanitarian causes. for 29 years, she participated 

in the work of the electronic information and education 

service of New Jersey by reading to the visually impaired. 

a member of the National council of Jewish Women, 

she did dramatic work in support of Hadassah and 

belonged to the Mental Health Players of New Jersey. 

PAY I N G T R I B U T E TO PAUL M. DENSEN (z”l) 

Champion of The Lautenberg Center 

During afHU’s Board of Governors reception at the King david 

Hotel on June 1, 2015, tribute was paid to Paul M. densen (z”l) for 

his leadership in support of the Lautenberg center. 

at the moving ceremony attended by the densen family, a bronze 

relief of Paul was displayed. Pending completion of new quarters for 

the Lautenberg center, the relief will be installed in the center’s new 

home at the faculty of Medicine. 

Bronze relief of Paul M. Densen 



Wall of Life 

DR. SUSAN ADELMAN and PROFESSOR MARTIN ADELMAN 

dr. susan adelman and Professor Martin adelman of 

southfield, Michigan, support varied Jewish communal and 

civic causes and foster higher education and scholarship. 

Martin adelman is a Professor of intellectual Property 

and technology Law at the George Washington University 

Law school, as well as Professor emeritus of Law at Wayne 

state University. He currently teaches patent law at Hebrew 

University and Bar-ilan University. He has testified as an 

expert on patent law and practice in more than 190 federal 

court cases, written many law review articles, and for 

25 years was the sole author of the continuously updated 

nine-volume treatise titled, Patent Law Perspectives. 

susan adelman practiced pediatric surgery for almost 

30 years. she was the first woman President of the 

Wayne county and Michigan state Medical societies, 

and member of the american Medical association 

Board of trustees. sue is an artist and also edited the 

detroit Medical News for 17 years. she is the author of 

Honoring the ADELMANS at the Wall of Life 

the rebel: a Biography of ram Jethmalani, a famous 

pro-israel lawyer-politician in india, now the most senior 

Member of Parliament. 

THE DENSEN FAMILY 

densen family support for the Lautenberg center is intergenerational. 

sons rob and Mark and their families maintain a steadfast commitment to 

the fight against cancer. rob and his family established the Lautenberg 

center’s annual James sivartsen Prize in Pediatric cancer research. 

an afHU leader, rob (pictured at the Wall of Life with Professor Menahem 

Ben-sasson), served for a decade on the National Board and the capital 

campaign committee. 



Wall of Life 

ALAN HARPER AND CATHERINE DUMAIT-HARPER 

IN MEMORY OF ANITA AND IONEL RUDBERG 

alan Harper and catherine dumait-Harper of New york 

are dedicated to advancing the well-being of people 

worldwide. for alan, supporting Hebrew University is a 

family tradition dating back two generations. He has 

provided scholarships for Palestinian and Jordanian 

graduate students in the fields of sociology and medicine, 

creating bridges to peace. 

alan is a consultant in the evaluation and management 

of portfolio credit quality at financial institutions in the 

United states and internationally. He previously held 

executive positions at american and Japanese commercial 

banks. a business leader, alan is treasurer of the U.s. 

Board of the alliance for international Medical action. 

He has served as director of economists for Peace 

and security and as President of the New york association 

for Business economics. 

catherine dumait-Harper joined Médecins sans frontières 

(Msf), doctors Without Borders, in 1993. as Msf’s delegate 

to the United Nations, she coordinated the agency’s 

advocacy efforts. catherine served as Vice-chairperson 

ALAN HARPER and CATHERINE DUMAIT-HARPER 

of the NGo, Working Group on the security council. 

a consultant in humanitarian affairs, catherine serves 

on numerous boards. in 2011, she was decorated 

with the insignia of chevalier de l’ordre des Palmes 

academiques. 

LOUISE KERSHMAN AND FAMILY 

IN MEMORY OF DR. SHERWIN KERSHMAN 

together since high school, Louise and sherwin 

Kershman of Houston, texas, married while in college and 

enjoyed 51 years together, throughout which time, israel 

held a special place in their hearts. 

dr. sherwin Kershman opened his oral surgery practice 

in Houston in 1971. the highly-skilled oral surgeon was 

known for his warmth and compassion. He graduated 

from Washington University in st. Louis, Missouri, 

with Ba and dds degrees. in 1962, sherwin made his 

first trip to israel and volunteered at Kibbutz amiad in the 

Upper Galilee. 

Louise Kershman began her studies at Washington 

University and later attended the University of Houston, 

where she received a Ba in accounting at age 49, 

graduating summa cum Laude. she became treasurer 

of the Houston chapter of the National council of 

Jewish Women. an active volunteer, Louise worked at the 

evelyn rubinstein Jewish community center Jewish 

Book fair in Houston and helped run its bookstore. for 

LOUISE KERSHMAN (far right) with son-in-law, HU PROFESSOR REUVEN 

HAZAN, and daughter FRANCINE HAZAN 

many years, she has been studying with the florence 

Melton school of adult Jewish Learning, a Hebrew 

University academic initiative. 



Wall of Life 

SUSAN MASRI LAWI AND NORMAN S. LAWI (z”l) AND FAMILY 

susan Masri Lawi of New york continues a legacy of 

support to afHU and the university established by her 

late father, saleh Masri (z”l). saleh Masri served on the 

Northeast region Board and was honored on Hebrew 

University’s Wall of Life, providing endowed scholarships 

for disadvantaged students of iraqi descent and valuable 

support for Hebrew University’s Pre-academic center. 

susan, a member of afHU’s National and regional 

Boards, fosters the scientific research of Professor 

shlomo Magdassi, also of iraqi descent. the two met 

during a previous Board of Governors meeting and 

discussed that the scholarship provided by susan’s father 

had enabled Professor Magdassi to attend HU as an 

undergraduate. during this year’s Board of Governors, 

susan met with current scholarship recipients. 

SUSAN MASRI LAWI with PROFESSOR MENAHEM BEN-SASSON 

JOHN, SHERRY AND LAURA BAUMAN 

sherry Norris and John Bauman enjoyed an afHU mission to israel 

and the Hebrew University, which inspired them to lead several 

successful afHU “insider’s View of israel” missions. these memorable 

journeys introduced new friends to israel through the lens of leading 

Hebrew University faculty. Greatly supportive of students on scholarship, 

sherry Norris and John Bauman are deeply committed to israel’s future 

and the cause of higher education. 

John Bauman is an attorney and leader in the residential real estate 

industry. He and his family have been involved with afHU for more 

than five decades. John is a member of the National and Northeast 

region Boards and the campaign committee and has been an active 

member of the real estate and financial services division. He has 

served on the boards of organizations benefiting humanitarian 

and educational causes. 

sherry Norris serves on afHU’s National Board of regents. Her 

career as a high school english teacher and crisis intervention counselor 

spanned 35 years, during which she earned many city-wide honors. 

JOHN BAUMAN and SHERRY NORRIS 



Wall of Life 

KATHLEEN HART SOLOVY 

Kathleen Hart solovy, a member of afHU’s National 

Board of regents from chicago, illinois, maintains a 

strong commitment to the well-being of students. she 

and her late husband Jerold s. solovy (z”l) have provided 

scholarship support for students at the faculty of Law, 

and the Kathleen Hart solovy endowment fund in Law is 

serving to educate israel’s next generation of legal 

professionals. Kathleen recently made a transformative 

gift to establish the Kathleen Hart solovy endowment 

fund for the innocence Project at the clinical Legal 

education center. this vital support will help to ensure 

the protection of human rights through access to due 

process and quality legal representation. 

concerned to foster local healthcare initiatives, 

Kathleen supports the respiratory Health association in 

chicago and the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Brain 

institute. Professionally, she was the youngest female 

Vice President of a prominent commercial real estate 

corporation for ten years. 

KATHLEEN HART SOLOVY with PROFESSOR MENAHEM BEN-SASSON 

THE AFHU 2015 PRESIDENT’S MISSION TO GREECE, BULGARIA AND ISRAEL 

AFHU President Daniel I. Schlessinger 

and Marcy Schlessinger led 

American Friends on a unique 

journey to sites of importance to 

Jewish heritage (May 23-June 3, 

2015). Participants traveled to 

Thessaloniki, Greece, and to Sofia, 

Bulgaria. Specialized visits and tours 

were led by Dr. Eyal Ginio, mission 

Scholar-in-Residence and Associate 

Professor and Chair of Hebrew 

University’s Department of Islamic 

and Middle Eastern Studies. 

Among the Jerusalem highlights 

were discussions with HU scientists 

and scholars, as well as with Israeli 

dignitaries. The group met international 

Friends at events surrounding the 

university’s 90th anniversary and the 

Board of Governors Meeting. 


Founders 

GAIL MEYER ASARCH AND DR. JAMES SATOVSKY 

Gail Meyer Asarch and Dr. James Satovsky from Boca 

Raton, Florida, support diverse causes. Each is a former 

Director and current member of the Anti-Defamation 

League. The couple are members of the Jewish Federation 

of South Palm Beach County’s King David Society, and 

founders at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. 

James Satovsky is a prominent South Florida endodontist 

and an Adjunct Clinical Professor at Nova Southeastern 

University. James has served as past President of the 

South Broward and North Dade Dental Societies. He is 

the past Secretary and Treasurer of the Florida Association 

of Endodontists and past President and Founder of the 

University of Michigan Endodontic Alumni Association, 

among other affiliations. He is a member of the Board of 

St. Andrews Country Club and the President’s Society 

supporting the University of Michigan. 

Gail Meyer Asarch has applied her extensive business 

knowledge to numerous ventures. She is a licensed real 

estate broker specializing in commercial leasing and a 

Partner in Meyer Jabara Hotels and Meyer Development, 

L–R: PROFESSOR RONNIE FRIEDMAN, Vice President for University 

Advancement; BILLY SHAPIRA, Vice President and Director-General; 

JAMES SATOVSKY and GAIL MEYER ASARCH 

as well as in two restaurant companies. She previously 

served as a Financial Officer for the National Westminster 

Bank, PLC. Gail is a Lion of Judah with the Jewish 

Federation of South Palm Beach County and is a benefactor 

of the Meyer Amphitheater, as well as The Arthur I. Meyer 

Jewish Academy, named in her father’s honor. 

ANNETTE BLUM AND RICHARD BLUM 

Annette Blum has fostered the education of Hebrew 

University students. A member of AFHU’s Western Region 

Board, she has supported the Bel Air Affaire fundraising 

event and enjoyed AFHU missions to Israel. 

The Director of Blum Media International, Annette is 

involved in obtaining sponsorship for events and forums 

related to media and global social action in the arts, 

particularly ventures designed to promote positive social 

change. Annette has participated on missions with 

international humanitarian organizations and advances 

the work of educational projects that promote 

co-existence in the Middle East. 

A former dancer, Annette began her career in the 

performing arts. She helped to run the public relations 

office for Shorenstein-Nederlander in San Francisco, and 

worked for the William Morris Agency, ICM and Lorimar 

in Los Angeles, as well as Radiotelevisione Italiana (RAI). 

Annette is a member of the Synergos Global Philanthropist 

ANNETTE BLUM and the BLUM FAMILY FOUNDATION 

Circle, the Artists and Educators Board at Center Theater 

Group and The Educational Advisory Committee at the 

Geffen Playhouse. 



Founders 

VIBEKE LICHTEN AND JOEL ASSOULINE 

IN MEMORY OF MICHAL LICHTEN 

frequent visitors to Hebrew University, Vibeke Lichten 

and Joel assouline have contributed to pioneering 

cancer research at the university. they have also helped 

to promote early childhood education and poverty 

intervention in israel. 

Partners in a2 investment Group (a2lG), a real estate 

development company, the couple first met in switzerland 

while Joel was earning his MBa at the University of 

Lausanne. their perspective is international and their love 

for israel, longstanding. 

Vibeke Lichten is a licensed architect and a principal 

of atelier Vibeke Lichten, an architecture and design 

firm that specializes in inner city revitalization. she 

serves on the board of the Beverly Willis architecture 

foundation. Born in denmark, Vibeke and her family 

moved to israel, where she completed her service 

in the air force before studying furniture design and 

interior architecture abroad. she has taught architecture 

at educational institutes in the United states and has 

been widely published. 

Joel assouline, a licensed real estate broker, leads 

PROFESSOR RONNIE FRIEDMAN, VIBEKE LICHTEN and JOEL ASSOULINE 

finance and management at a2iG. He is an alumnus 

of the advanced real estate Management Program 

at Harvard’s Graduate school of design. raised in 

casablanca, Morocco, Joel later moved to france with his 

family. a staunch supporter of israel, he first visited the 

country after the yom Kippur War. 

ISRAELI STATESMAN 

SHIMON PERES 

AWARDED SOLOMON 

BUBLICK PRIZE 

Former President of Israel, Shimon Peres, 

was awarded the 2015 Solomon Bublick 

Prize on May 31st. A longtime friend of 

The Hebrew University and an Honorary 

Doctorate recipient, Israel’s ninth President 

delivered a public address during the 

university’s 78th annual convocation and 

Board of Governors. 


afhu national Mission to Israel 

March 5-12, 2016 

Mission Co-Chairs: Patricia L. Glaser and Marc O. Mayer 

Herzliya – March 5-7 

Jerusalem – March 7-10 

The Negev – March 10-12 

• dinner with U.s. ambassador to israel, daniel B. shapiro 

• a tour of the supreme court and private meeting with 

supreme court President Miriam Naor and dinner 

with Professor aharon Barak, former President 

• a ViP reception with reuven rivlin, President of israel 

• safari by jeep through the ramon crater in the heart 

of the Negev desert, and enjoy a luxurious stay at 

Beresheet spa in Mitzpe ramon 

• exclusive tour of Herodion, one of the world’s most 

fascinating archaeological sites 

• Visit Gush etzion and have lunch with speaker of the 

Knesset yuli-yoel edelstein 

• travel by helicopter across the northern border, and 

receive a briefing by an israel defense forces commander 

• dine with amoz oz, israel’s most prominent author 

and a Hebrew University alumnus 

• Meet Professor amnon shashua, inventor of the car 

navigation system, Mobileye, the start-up that achieved 

the largest iPo in israel’s history 

• an insider’s tour of elbit systems, manufacturer of 

high-performance electronic defense systems 

for additional information visit www.afhu.org/nationalmission2016 

or contact afhu western Region executive Director sheri Kaufer at (310) 843-3100 or skaufer@afhu.org 



The Palm Beach Mission to Amsterdam and Israel 

AFHU’s Palm Beach Mission 2015 was chaired by Roberta and Stanley Bogen and Barbara and Richard 

Rothschild. Leading members of the Palm Beach community explored the Jewish heritage of Amsterdam 

in late May and traveled to Israel for further adventures. On June 4th, four dynamic couples known for 

philanthropic leadership were honored by The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. 

Benefactors 

Wall of Life 

MICHELLE AND JOSEPH JACOBS 

american friends Michelle and Joseph Jacobs 

nurture students’ well-being through scholarship 

support at Hebrew University and at academic 

institutions throughout the United states. their 

philanthropy helps to advance cutting-edge work at 

the university’s edmond and Lily safra center for Brain 

sciences. Michelle and Joseph Jacobs were joined 

on this year’s Palm Beach mission by their son david. 

the philanthropic couple will receive afHU’s National 

scopus award on January 16, 2016. 

Joseph Jacobs is the President and co-founder of 

Wexford capital LP, a private investment firm. He has 

served on the boards of a number of public and private 

companies. Joseph was previously a senior Managing 

director of stearns & co, prior to which he was 

affiliated with citibank, N.a. 

Michelle Jacobs developed an accomplished and 

varied career, becoming President of ashfield designs 

inc., a jewelry design company in New york. she 

holds a degree in international relations from syracuse 

University. 

in addition to their efforts on behalf of Hebrew 

University, the couple foster the activities of the innocence 

Project, children’s Health fund and “i Have a dream” 

foundation. their adoption of an inner city classroom 

in New york enables disadvantaged students to gain 

comprehensive educational opportunities. 

MITRA A. AND MICHAEL A. MARGOLIS 

Mitra and Michael Margolis are longtime supporters 

of the Hebrew University, israel and the Jewish 

community. 

Michael Margolis is the founder of Maric fund 

Management and affiliated entities. He is a former 

director of sage capital Growth and a co-founder and 

Partner of arcadia Partners. He was Vice President 

of the Media and entertainment investment Banking 

Group of Bear, stearns & co. and was a financial 

analyst at Kidder, Peabody & co. 

Michael is President of the abe and sterling Margolis 

foundation, which assists low income families in dayton, 

ohio’s Jewish community. He sits on the boards 

of MorseLife Health system and the MorseLife 

foundation, the Phillips academy andover alumni 

council and the aspen art Museum National council. 

Mitra Margolis is a member of Janjoon, LLc, a real 

estate investment company, and serves as a 

contributing reporter for Kayhan London. she has 

established an extensive career in finance and 

mechanical engineering, including lead positions with 

sempra energy and General electric. 

Mitra is a member of the rotary club, sits on the 

aspen art Museum National council, is a docent at the 

Museum of fine arts of Houston and serves on the 

board of the Woman’s auxiliary for temple emanu-el 

in New york. 



Supporting the Elite Military 

Track of Medicine 

BARBARA AND RICHARD ROTHSCHILD 

Wall of Life 

L–R: VICE PRESIDENT BILLY SHAPIRA and the ROTHSCHILDS 

ROBBI AND BRUCE TOLL 

dedicated american friends, robbi and Bruce toll, 

have co-chaired afHU events in Palm Beach and have 

participated in afHU Palm Beach Missions. 

Bruce toll is the co-founder of toll Brothers, inc., 

the premier builder of luxury homes across the United 

states, and has served as the company’s President 

and Vice chairman. He is the President of toll 

Management company, the owner of Bet investments, 

inc., and is owner and chairman of biotech company 

Puresyn corp. He also co-founded Ubiquitel, inc., 

providers of digital communication services. 

Bruce is treasurer and member of the Board of 

trustees of abington Memorial Hospital, a member of 

the executive Board of the Philadelphia Museum of art 

and the World Presidents and chief executives 

organizations. 

robbi toll is President of rst design, an interior 

design firm. she serves on the executive Board of the 

israel Museum, is secretary of the National Museum of 

american Jewish History and a member of the Major 

Gifts and Modern and contemporary art committees 

of the Philadelphia Museum of art. she serves on the 

Board of the United Way of Palm Beach, the committee 

of the National organization for Hearing research 

foundation, and is an Honorary trustee of rodeph 

shalom synagogue. 

richard and Barbara rothschild, National scopus 

award laureates, have an abiding bond with the 

Hebrew University and afHU. supportive of friends of 

the israel defense forces (fidf), the couple is 

committed to fostering the next generation of medical 

professionals. they provide generously for Hebrew 

University’s elite Military track of Medicine, which 

trains physicians for the idf. this dedication was 

recognized on June 4th. 

richard rothschild, an afHU National Board of 

regents member, is a leader in the financial services 

industry. He launched his career at dreyfus Mutual 

funds, and fulfilled financial advisory roles at smith 

Barney for 24 years. He joined Wells fargo advisors in 

2009 as senior Vice President in private wealth 

management. richard serves on the Board of avon 

old farms school and MorseLife for senior Living. 

Barbara floersheimer rothschild’s concern for the 

Hebrew University was instilled in her by her parents, 

dr. stephen H. floersheimer and eliane floersheimer 

(z”l) who established the stephen H. floersheimer 

studies at the HU institute of Urban and regional 

studies. Professionally, Barbara developed a thriving 

career in the fashion industry. she has been a 

volunteer for the Women’s international Zionist 

organization and has taught at temple emanu-el 

Nursery school in New york city. 

the rothschilds also support the israel Museum and 

Bucknell University, richard’s alma mater, where they 

enable students to pursue careers in art. 


AFHU EVENTS: HONORING OUR OWN 

Torch of Learning and Judah Magnes Awards 

MIDWEST REGION 

ABOVE: JEROLD S. SOLOVY (z”l) 

RIGHT: DANIEL I. SCHLESSINGER, 

KATHLEEN HART SOLOVY, SCOTT 

TUROW and DAVID MAKOVSKY 

American friends celebrated the achievements 

and humanitarianism of scott turow and 

Jerold s. solovy (z”l) during an awards dinner 

at the ritz-carlton chicago on december 4, 

2014. Kathleen Hart solovy presented 

the inaugural Jerold s. solovy torch of Learning award to 

scott turow in recognition of his accomplishments as an 

attorney and writer, and his philanthropic engagement. 

dinner proceeds benefited students at Hebrew 

University’s faculty of Law. 

in tribute to her husband Jerry, Kathleen accepted the 

Judah L. Magnes award, which was conferred upon Jerry 

for his myriad contributions to higher education and 

cultural life in the United states and israel. 

scott turow, a partner in the chicago office of dentons, 

concentrates on white-collar criminal defense. He 

devotes substantial time to pro bono matters and has 

served on the illinois commission on capital Punishment, 

recommending reforms to the state death penalty 

system. a best-selling author, scott turow is the former 

President of the authors Guild and an emeritus trustee 

of amherst college. 

Jerold solovy served as chairman emeritus of Jenner 

& Block LLP, and was one of the preeminent appellate 

and trial lawyers in the country. He was widely admired 

for his pro bono work and record of public service. 

a National scopus award recipient, Jerry served on 

afHU’s National Board of regents and on the Midwest 

regional President’s advisory committee. He was a 

member of the board of the Harry s. truman research 

institute for the advancement of Peace. 

dinner chairs were charles W. douglas, adriane Glazier, 

ronald L. Marmer, Lee i. Miller, elliott i. Portnoy, Kathleen 

Hart solovy, Jeffrey e. stone, William a. Von Hoene, Jr., 

anton r. Valukas and dan K. Webb. alderman edward M. 

Burke served as Honorary chair. the evening’s keynote 

speaker was david Makovsky, the Ziegler distinguished 

fellow at the Washington institute. 


Palm Beach 10th Anniversary Gala: 

“A Night in 

the Garden 

of Eden” 

TOP: BACK: LOIS ZELMAN, 

ELLEN LEVY, ROBERTA BOGEN 

and BARBARA ROTHSCHILD; 

FRONT: SHERRY ENDELSON, 

DIANE BELFER and 

WILMA BERNSTEIN 

RIGHT: DINNER CHAIRS: 

ROBERT and JUDY SNYDER, 

LARRY and MICKEY BEYER, 

JOSEPH and MICHELLE JACOBS 

and BRUCE and ROBBI TOLL 

On January 18, 2015, afHU’s 10th anniversary 

Gala in the southeast region drew friends 

and supporters to the Mar-a-Lago club to 

toast ten dynamic women: diane Belfer, 

Wilma Bernstein, roberta Bogen, Barbara 

eichner, sherry endelson, ellen Levy, Barbara rothschild, 

Louise stein (z”l), Joy Weinberger (z”l) and Lois Zelman. 

the honorees were recognized for their leadership, 

achievements and commitment to afHU’s mission in 

support of the Hebrew University. 

Honorary chairs for the festive gala were roberta 

and stanley Bogen and Barbara and richard 

rothschild. dinner chairs included Mickey and 

Larry Beyer, Michelle and Joseph Jacobs, florence 

and robert Kaufman, Judy and robert snyder and 

robbi and Bruce toll. Joseph Jacobs served as 

Master of ceremonies. 

the evening included a performance by cirque 

dreams, a state-of-the-art theatrical production. 

dinner proceeds benefited the construction of 

the Palm Beach courtyard at the edmond and Lily 

safra center for Brain sciences. 



Torch of Learning Awards 

WESTERN REGION 

Distinguished attorneys Jonathan anschell and 

dick Volpert received the Harvey L. silbert 

torch of Learning award on april 13, 2015, 

during a dinner in Beverly Hills. the exciting 

event raised more than $1 million for the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s faculty of Law. a special 

guest speaker was Professor deborah Lipstadt, an 

international scholar of the Holocaust and anti-semitism. 

Jonathan anschell is executive Vice President and 

General counsel of cBs television, senior Vice President 

and deputy General counsel of cBs corporation. He 

is a past chair of the american Bar association’s Media 

advocacy Workshop and served as co-editor of the 

aBa journal communications Lawyer. in 2011 he received 

the Hollywood reporter’s “raising the Bar award” 

for distinguished service. Jonathan has taught media law 

at UcLa. 

a community leader, Jonathan serves on afHU’s 

regional Board and on the boards of Public counsel, the 

Jewish federation of Greater Los angeles and sinai temple. 

dick Volpert, a senior real estate Partner at the law 

firm of Glaser Weil LLP, is an admired leader and attorney, 

with expertise in real estate and land use law. He has 

been involved in key matters for Pacific enterprises, 

southern california Gas co., cBs, and olympia 

& york, and has represented municipal clients 

in public-private projects for the development 

of a variety of real estate facilities. 

dick has held leadership roles at the Los 

angeles county Museum of Natural 

History, the Usc Law center and the Jewish 

federation-council of Los angeles. He is the 

founding Publisher of the Jewish Journal 

of Los angeles. He received the 2003 

“outstanding real estate Lawyer award” from 

the Los angeles county Bar association and 

the “Learned Hand award” from the american 

Jewish committee (1999). dick’s children 

proudly accepted the torch of Learning award 

on their father’s behalf. 

the award dinner was chaired by Patricia L. 

Glaser and sam Mudie. co-chairs were Joyce 

Brandman, chantal and stephen cloobeck, 

Laura dern, dream fund, thomas V. Girardi, 

Glaser Weil fink Howard avchen & shapiro 

LLP, abigail Goldman, alec Gores, Brindell 

Gottlieb, Janet and Marvin Jubas, Leslie 

Moonves, Jeanne and stephen silbert, 

Lynne silbert, and Julie a. and Peter M. Weil. 

TOP LEFT: JONATHAN ANSCHELL, PATRICIA GLASER, 

SAM MUDIE and JOYCE BRANDMAN 

LEFT: DICK VOLPERT’S children, SANDY, BARRY, LINDA and 

NANCY with ZEV YAROSLAVSKY (center) 



Torch of Learning Awards 

NORTHEAST REGION 

The 45th George a. Katz torch of 

Learning award was conferred 

upon Jennifer M. daniels and 

Meredith e. Kotler on april 22, 2015, 

during a celebratory luncheon 

in New york. the prominent attorneys 

were recognized for their professional 

achievements and humanitarianism. 

Jennifer M. daniels is the chief Legal officer 

and secretary of colgate-Palmolive company. 

Previously, she was senior Vice President, 

General counsel and corporate secretary of 

Ncr corporation, and earlier served as 

General counsel and corporate secretary 

of Barnes & Noble, inc. Jennifer began her 

career at law firms in New york state, 

and spent nearly 17 years in-house at iBM. 

Jennifer has served as President of the 

Board of trustees of the Greenwich country 

day school and received the Greenwich 

yWca’s BraVa award. she is a trustee of the 

National Humanities center and a member of 

the advisory Board of the Harvard Law school center on the Legal Profession. 

Meredith e. Kotler is a Partner based in the New york office of cleary Gottlieb 

steen & Hamilton LLP. Her practice focuses on securities, merger, and 

commercial litigation. she represents public companies and financial institutions, 

as well as their officers and directors, in federal and state courts, and before 

the U.s. securities and exchange commission, the commodities futures 

trading commission and the financial industry regulatory agency. 

earlier in her career, Meredith was a Partner of Wilson sonsini Goodrich & 

rosati. she served as an assistant U.s. 

attorney in the southern district of New york 

and clerked for the Honorable Barbara s. 

Jones of the U.s. district court for the 

southern district of New york. 

the torch of Learning award luncheon 

raised funds for the Hebrew University 

faculty of Law and its clinical Legal 

education center. the popular event was 

chaired by evan r. chesler, the Honorable 

Barbara s. Jones, Mitchell a. Lowenthal 

and Matthew a. schwartz. 

ABOVE: L–R: MEREDITH E. KOTLER and 

JENNIFER M. DANIELS 

BELOW: BETH ASNIEN MCCOY, 

ISRAEL’S CONSUL GENERAL, AMBASSADOR 

IDO AHARONI, and JOHN S. SIFFERT 




Leaders of Distinction Awards 


More than 300 people gathered 

on september 3, 2015, in chicago 

to confer Leaders of distinction 

awards upon two esteemed 

honorees. the afHU Midwest 

region recognized steven coby derringer, 

a Partner at the law firm of Bartlit Beck 

Herman Palenchar and scott LLP, and i. steven 

edelson, a financial and real estate industries 

leader who is chairman of the Mercantile 

companies, inc. 

Both honorees are proud alumni of the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem. coby 

derringer (‘89-’90), was a Goldsmith scholar at 

HU’s rothberg international school’s one-year 

program. He was recently appointed to 

afHU’s Midwest region Board. 

steven edelson (‘77) studied biochemistry 

at the university. He is an associate Governor 

of Hebrew University, a trustee of the 

Harry s. truman research institute for 

the advancement of Peace and serves on 

afHU’s National and regional Boards. 

Jim Jackson, a former NBa shooting guard 

and current basketball analyst on fox’s Big 

ten Network, served as Master of ceremonies. 

special guests included illinois Lieutenant 

Governor evelyn sanguinetti and HU Professor 

yaakov Nahmias, director of the alexander 

Grass center for Bioengineering. recent 

HU alumna, dale Golden, spoke about her 

transformative experience at HU. 

the Leaders of distinction awards dinner 

was chaired by ariel derringer, carol edelson, 

Lisa and scott Gendell, robert Gerber, 

Lee Hillman, Mark Levine, Nancy and Michael 

reinsdorf and Kathleen Hart solovy. 

ABOVE: STEVEN EDELSON and STEVEN COBY DERRINGER 

RIGHT: PROFESSOR YAAKOV NAHMIAS 

FAR RIGHT: JIM JACKSON 



Humanitarian Torch of Learning Award 

GREATER WESTERNNEW REGION YORK REGION 

The Bel Air Affaire 

On september 19, 2015, leading real estate 

developer albert sweet received the 

Humanitarian torch of Learning award during 

the eighth annual Bel air affaire in Los 

angeles. albert sweet is the co-chairman and 

founding Partner of occidental entertainment Group 

Holdings in Hollywood, california. He and his business 

partner, craig darian, build and remodel aging buildings, 

transforming them into creative offices and sound 

stages. these properties service high-profile companies 

in the entertainment industry. 

albert sweet has helped to advance Hebrew University’s 

well-being through support for scholarships and 

innovative medical research. among his many accolades, 

albert was named a “Hero of Hollywood” by the Hollywood 

chamber of commerce during 2012. 

the 2015 Bel air affaire raised a record-breaking $1 million 

for scholarships for Hebrew University students, and was 

graciously hosted for the second consecutive year by 

anthony and Jeanne Pritzker. their lovely hilltop home was 

transformed into an outdoor “theater,” where 235 guests 

enjoyed an evening of “Music Beneath the stars” featuring 

a performance by the La opera. the glamorous event 

was generously underwritten by Brindell Gottlieb, 

President of the Western region. 

HU President, Professor Menahem Ben-sasson, 

provided highlights of HU’s 90th anniversary year. HU 

ALBERT SWEET and CRAIG DARIAN 

student ambassador Limor raviv moved guests with her 

expression of gratitude for the scholarships that have 

helped HU students to succeed. 

co-chairs for the Bel air affaire were renae Jacobsanson 

and dr. david anson and Helen Jacobs-Lepor and 

dr. Norman Lepor. Honorary chairs were Patricia L. 

Glaser and sam Mudie and May and richard Ziman. 

L–R: RENAE JACOBS-ANSON, 

BRINDELL GOTTLIEB and 

HELEN JACOBS-LEPOR 




Evening of Tribute 


Adonor appreciation reception held 

on May 6, 2015, recognized Western 

region friends for their dedication to 

the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. 

tribute was paid to Benefactors: Patricia 

Glaser and sam Mudie; Guardians: Michael 

cypers and Jackie tavelman, Mindy rothstein 

Mann and Bob Mann, and Michelle and Marc 

rosenbach; founders: abigail Goldman and 

Jonathan anschell, cindy and Gary frischling, 

shirley and Lou Gram, Hitter family foundation, 

charlene and dr. Victor sands, and the 

Michael and Nancy sitrick family foundation. 

during the evening of tribute at the Hillcrest 

country club, Joyce Brandman, who received 

an Honorary doctorate from the Hebrew 

University on May 31st, was lauded for her 

service as regional President. Brindell Gottlieb 

and renae Jacobs-anson were installed as 

the Western region’s new President and 

Vice President. 

special guests were david siegel, consul 

General of israel to Los angeles, and Hebrew 

University President, Professor Menahem 

Ben-sasson. 

ABOVE LEFT: BRINDELL GOTTLIEB and RENAE JACOBS-ANSON 

LEFT: MINDY ROTHSTEIN MANN and BOB MANN 

ABOVE RIGHT: JACKIE TAVELMAN and MICHAEL CYPERS 

RIGHT: MICHELLE and MARC ROSENBACH 

Paws for a Cause: The Koret 

School of Veterinary Medicine 

On april 19, 2015, dog lovers and their canine companions 

attended the Mid-atlantic region’s fourth Paws for a cause 

event in support of the Hebrew University’s Koret school of 

Veterinary Medicine. 

this year’s bark fest at the William f. Bolger center in Potomac, 

Maryland, was chaired by Leslie and Bruce Lane and their dog 

Muffin, and emceed by Leon Harris, WJLa aBc News 7 anchor. 

MARLA and BOB TANENBAUM with RUDY and DAISY 


AFHU EVENTS 

Annual Leadership Education Forum 

L–R: Middle East Affairs panelists, AMBASSADOR MARTIN INDYK, AVI MELAMED, BRET STEPHENS and AMBASSADOR WILLIAM A. BROWN 

AfHU’s annual Leadership education forum (aLef) was 

held on January 18, 2015, in Palm Beach. chaired by 

Jessica Zwaiman Lerner, aLef attracted more than 

200 guests who experienced stimulating presentations by 

Hebrew University faculty and other leading experts on 

Middle east affairs, medicine and brain sciences. 

Hebrew University participants included Professor 

Batsheva Kerem, an expert in cystic fibrosis and cancer 

research; dr. Judah Koller, a specialist in autism 

spectrum disorder and a clinical psychologist; Professor 

eran Meshorer, genetics specialist and member of 

the edmond and Lily center for Brain sciences; and 

Professor ronnie friedman, Vice President for University 

advancement and external relations. 

Bret stephens, deputy editorial Page editor of 

the Wall street Journal, opened the conference. other 

illuminating speakers included avi Melamed, Middle 

east strategic intelligence analyst; ambassador 

William a. Brown, former chief 

of Mission, american embassy, 

tel aviv, and acting chairman 

and Honorary Member of 

the university’s Harry s. truman 

research institute for the 

advancement of Peace; 

ambassador stuart Bernstein, 

former U.s. ambassador to 

denmark; and ambassador 

Martin indyk, former U.s. 

ambassador to israel. 

LEFT: L–R: DR. JUDAH KOLLER, 

PROFESSORS’ RONNIE FRIEDMAN, 

ERAN MESHORER and 

BATSHEVA KEREM 



ALUMNI NEWS 

the AFHU Alumni Relations program had 

an amazing year in 2015 with events across 

the United States, a new quarterly newsletter 

and a relaunched website. We have more ways 

to connect than ever before. None 

of this would be possible without the hard work 

and dedication of our AFHU regional and 

national alumni chairs. 

AFHU National Alumni Relations Chair 

clive Kabatznik ‘80 

AFHU Regional Alumni Chairs 

Northeast Region 

avner Mendelson ‘00 

Mid-Atlantic Region 

Mark Lewis ’78 

Midwest Region 

Ben azulay ’95 

Western Region 

Mindy rothstein Mann ‘76 

and Marc rosenbach ‘85 

Alumni at ALEF 

Hebrew University alumni gathered for a cordial dinner the evening before the annual aLef conference in Palm 

Beach, florida. the alumni spanned more than five decades and had wonderful memories to share. Many alumni 

also attended aLef, which included remarks by recent HU alumnus and south florida resident Guido Weiss ’14, who 

discussed his experiences at Hebrew University. 

Invest and Have Impact 

on March 1, 2015, 80 alumni attended a Western 

region alumni reception at the beautiful Beverly 

Hills home of Mindy rothstein Mann ’75-’76 and 

Bob Mann. surrounded by stunning works of art, 

fred Gluckman ’89-90, cfo of saban capital Group, 

discussed the importance of investing in israel and how 

we can benefit our communities while helping ourselves. 

L–R: Alumni MARSHALL PECK, SHIRLEY FRIEDMAN, MICHAEL FRIEDMAN, 

SHAUNA NEP, ANDREA SORIN and KIMBERLY LEFF 

Driving into the Future 

More than 150 alumni and friends reminisced about 

HU and made new connections at the century 

association in New york on March 25, 2015. special guest, 

Professor amnon shashua, the sachs family Professor 

of computer science and engineering, and founder of 

Mobileye, shared insights into the revolutionary applications 

emerging from the labs of Hebrew University. 

A Home Run Game 

ALUMNI and “ALBERT EINSTEIN” enjoying the festivities 

Marla Lerner tanenbaum ’77-’78 hosted an alumni meetup in the owner’s box at the 

Washington Nationals game against the tampa Bay rays on June 17, 2015. attendees 

included afHU Mid-atlantic region President Bill Kilberg, dc alumni chair 

Mark Lewis ’78, and HU alumni adam Nemzer; eric forseter; ari silber; 

staci Walkes; Jason Zuckerman; debbie charnet feinberg; aron friedman; 

Marc Levine; doug and dara Levy; and ambassador Miriam sapiro. 


A Rooftop Reunion 

for the first annual HU alumni summer soiree, more 

than 80 members of the Los angeles community 

celebrated on the rooftop of the beautiful Gores Group 

building in Beverly Hills on July 12, 2015. With amazing 

music, views and food, it was such a delightful evening that 

alumni can’t wait for the second annual alumni soiree! 

L–R: ALAN ROSENBACH, KIMBERLY LEEN, ELI ZARITT, 

ANDREA SORIN, ANDREA KRAVETTE and SHAUNA NEP 

Brunch and Learn 


Ben-sasson, and HU student ambassador 

Limor raviv, were special guests at a lively brunch in 

Beverly Hills on september 20, 2015. More than 

60 alumni were inspired by Limor’s passion for 

her work at Hebrew University, where she studies 

cognitive science. 

L–R: BAR BUARON, EYAL MALKA, OFIR SHARON, 

JACOB VAAKIL and MICHAL VAAKIL 

Looking Back and Looking Forward 

HU alumni and friends gathered at the offices of 

Gibson dunn in Manhattan on october 1, 2015. 


Ben-sasson, spoke about the illustrious 90-year history 

of HU and what we can expect from the university 

in the next decade. President Ben-sasson stressed the 

importance of an active alumni community and our 

potential impact on the future of HU. 

DR. GAD AVIGAD and TALIA CARNER 

Connect With Us: 

• alumni.afhu.org 

• afhuconnect.com 

• www.twitter.com/ 

hebrewualum 

• www.facebook.com/ 

hebrewualumni 

We want to connect If you or anyone you know attended Hebrew University, 

please contact AFHU’s Alumni Relations Director Alana Cooper at alumni@afhu.org. 

AFHU Alumni Relations by the numbers in 2015: 

• Connected with over 14,500 alumni 

• 10 alumni events 

• More than 700 alumni attended AFHU events 

• First edition of quarterly alumni newsletter 


Planned Giving 

by LINDA ZISK 

afHU National director of development 

american friends often find that planned gifts in 

support of afHU’s mission and on behalf of the Hebrew 

University of Jerusalem can be valuable for tax and 

estate planning purposes as well as for charitable 

purposes. among the factors that may help to 

determine how to plan your charitable gift are: your 

age, marital and family status, your need for income and 

tax planning issues involving your estate. do you want 

high, fixed-rate income for life? are you concerned 

about the tax costs if you were to sell real estate 

or securities? 

Consider a Bequest in Your will or Living Trust 

While you may have made a personal choice to leave 

a portion of your estate to your favorite charities, it is 

more secure to do so through a provision in your will or 

trust. that way you won't have to commit your assets to 

charity during your lifetime and can make use of them 

and the income earned as you need it. a bequest can be 

an easy step to take. in your will or trust you can allocate 

a fixed dollar amount or indicate that a percentage of 

your residuary estate will be provided to afHU. 

if you have a current will or trust and do not feel the 

need for a completely new document, you can add a 

codicil to your will or make an amendment to your trust 

to indicate your intended charitable gifts. you may make 

your posthumous gifts without restriction, allowing the 

funds to be used as most needed. alternatively, you can 

designate their use for programs or purposes dear to 

you. all charitable bequests qualify for a full amount 

estate tax charitable deduction. 

earning Income now 

a charitable gift annuity (cGa) 

is a federal and state regulated 

philanthropic option that enables 

you to obtain high, fixed-rate 

lifetime income for one or two lives. it is funded with a gift 

of cash or marketable securities. the rates are drawn 

from tables filed with the regulators in New york and other 

states for both one-life and two-lives. Much of the annual 

annuity amount may be paid to you tax-free for the amount 

of years that correspond to your actuarial life expectancy. 

you also are entitled to a current income tax charitable 

deduction. in times of low interest rates and high-risk 

financial markets, a cGa may provide a welcome addition 

to your investment portfolio. 

Benefiting from Life Insurance and IRa Gifts 

since your ira or other qualified plan is vulnerable to 

potentially high taxes at the end of your lifetime, you may 

want to consider making your posthumous charitable gifts 

by way of beneficiary designations from the plan, so that 

both potential income taxes and estate taxes will be avoided. 

since qualified plan funds are subject to a “double tax,” 

it is often recommended that donors make charitable gifts 

from the plan, leaving single tax assets to their heirs. 

i would be delighted to speak with you about afHU’s 

planned giving program, which is designed to provide 

you with options likely to fit your needs and reflect your 

commitment to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. 

Please contact me to learn more: 

Linda Zisk at lzisk@afhu.org or (212) 607-8566. 

EINSTEIN VISIONARIES SOCIETY: Honoring Commitment 

Einstein Visionaries is an honorary society established 

to recognize the generosity of thoughtful 

supporters who have provided for the future strength of 

the Hebrew University of Jerusalem by making a planned 

gift through american friends of the Hebrew University. 

society members create a meaningful legacy and gain 

the pleasure of knowing that their deeply appreciated 

philanthropy will have a far-ranging impact. Ultimately, 

this planned gift will benefit israel and foster the 

academic and research achievements of the nation’s 

best and brightest talents. 

Members of the einstein Visionaries society 

are provided with updates about activities 

at the Hebrew University. they are invited to special 

afHU events and programs. these esteemed 

donors have opportunities to be recognized on-site 


PLANNED GIVING 

Marvin Jubas: Creating a Legacy at The Faculty of Law 

For forty years, afHU leader Marvin Jubas was 

Managing Partner at the law firm he helped to 

found in 1956: spensley, Horn and Jubas. 

concentrating on the field of intellectual property, 

Marvin, a graduate of Uc Berkeley and UcLa law 

school, blazed new trails during an era when few law firms 

focused on iP, including patent litigation, trademark and 

copyright law. Given the growing demand for this 

specialty, spensley, Horn and Jubas grew from three 

professionals to seventy, with offices in Los angeles, 

Washington d.c., san diego and orange county. 

deeply aware of the importance of intellectual property 

to business enterprise, Marvin recently made an 

irrevocable bequest of $1.5 million in support of the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem faculty of Law. this 

generous philanthropy will create the Marvin Jubas chair 

in intellectual Property. Marvin wants to help build the 

capabilities of a university he describes as “a cherished 

intellectual asset—a leading institution that all Jews 

should want to preserve and strengthen.” 

“israel is a high-tech nation that breeds innovation on 

on and startup companies,” explains Marvin. “intellectual 

property is all about being competitive. israel’s economy 

is thriving, but it can do even better if its technological 

advances are patentable and exclusive.” the Jubas chair in 

intellectual Property will help to assure that israel maintains 

its global preeminence as an incubator for innovation and 

startup companies. “a university with great professors 

also attracts the best students,” Marvin adds. 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, PROFESSOR MENAHEM BEN-SASSON, 

with JANET and MARVIN JUBAS 

a member of afHU’s National and Western region 

Boards, Marvin, the recipient of an afHU Humanitarian 

torch of Learning award, attends many events and 

programs in the U.s. and israel. in June 2015, Marvin 

and his wife Janet participated in the afHU President’s 

Mission which culminated in israel for the Hebrew 

University’s 90th anniversary celebration. He has 

enjoyed visiting the faculty of Law and refers to its dean, 

Professor yuval shany, as “a mensch and a half.” 

Marvin’s enduring commitment to israel is reflected 

in his decision to establish an irrevocable bequest. 

“you can’t have a significant country without 

brainpower, and israel’s brainpower is manifest by 

its top university,” he says, intent upon assuring that 

the university will continue educating israel’s top legal 

minds in perpetuity. 

at the Hebrew University’s Mount 

scopus campus overlooking 

Jerusalem. 

By notifying afHU of your bequest 

intent or establishing another form 

of planned giving, you will receive 

recognition as a member of our 

einstein Visionaries society. 



In Remembrance 

We mourn the passing of 

Myron Adler 

Sandra Alpert 

Harry Axelrod 

Professor Itai Bab, DMD 

Harriet Beck 

Professor Jacob Bekenstein 

Howard M. Bender 

Herman G. Berkman 

Allen Bildner 

Monroe Burk 

Richard Chesnoff 

Sylvia Cohodas 

Helen Diller 

Herta Gertler 

Philip Goldberg 

Arline S. Gordon 

Kenneth S. Gould 

Felice Grad 

Nat and Evelyn Handel 

Rita Hassenfeld 

Isaac Heller 

Marilyn Herskovitz 

Dr. Joseph Honigman 

Susanne Hyman 

Rochelle Katz 

Dr. Sherwin Kershman 

William B. Konar 

Dr. Sanford F. Kuvin 

Ruth Morrison Leland 

Norman Leventhal 

Dr. Leonard Lieberman 

Paul Lipsitz 

Todd S. Lundy 

Asher Margolis 

Isabel May 

Harvey R. Miller 

Bess Myerson 

Norman J. Patinkin 

Seymour Persky 

Ruth Popkin 

René S. Rabinowitz 

Myron Rosenbach 

Herbert L. Roth 

Robert S. Savin 

Jerome Senter 

David Shapell 

Alfred Slifka 

Arthur D. Sporn 

Sylvia Stern 

Vera Stern 

Adele Tannenbaum 

A. Alfred Taubman 

Irving Taylor 

Bernice Waldbaum 

Dan K. Wassong 

Hedy Wegier 

Joy Weinberger 

Paul Weiner 

Jerry Weintraub 

Professor Robert Wistrich 

Bruno Zwass 


SELECTED UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2016 

REGION DATE EVENT 

Southeast JANUARY 16 Palm Beach Scopus Award Gala 

A Night in the Desert 

Honoring Michelle and Joseph Jacobs 

The Raymond F. Kravis Center Cohen Pavilion – West Palm Beach, Florida 

Southeast JANUARY 17 Palm Beach Annual Leadership Education Forum (ALEF) 

The Four Seasons Palm Beach – Palm Beach, Florida 

National JANUARY 18 National Board of Directors Meeting 

The Four Seasons Palm Beach – Palm Beach, Florida 

Southeast JANUARY 18 Mini Annual Leadership Education Forum (ALEF) 

Frenchman’s Creek Country Club – Palm Beach Gardens, FL 

National MARCH 5-12 AFHU National Mission 

Israel 

Northeast MAY 4 The 46th Annual George A. Katz Torch of Learning Award Luncheon 

Honoring Meyer G. Koplow and Theodore N. Mirvis 

Partners at Wachtel, Lipton, Rosen & Katz 

Cipriani – New York, NY 

Mid-Atlantic MAY 10 Scopus Award Dinner Honoring Suzy and Robert Pence 

Leader of Distinction Award Honoring William Kristol 

Washington, D.C. 

National MAY 15 AFHU Annual Board of Directors Meeting 

New York, NY 

Midwest MAY 18 The Jerold S. Solovy Torch of Learning Award Dinner 

Honoring David H. Hoffman, Partner, Sidley Austin LLP 

Ritz-Carlton – Chicago, IL 

National MAY 24-27 President’s Mission 2016 

The Negev, Israel 

National MAY 27-JUNE 1 The 79th Hebrew University International Board of Governors Meeting 

Jerusalem, Israel 

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 

Jane Kampton 

Chief Financial Officer 

Daniel Rutberg 

Chief Information Officer 

Joyce Grossman 

National Director of 

Communications 

NATIONAL 

(212) 607-8500 

NORTHEAST REGION 

(212) 607-8510 

MID-ATLANTIC REGION 

(202) 363-4600 

SOUTHEAST REGION 

(561) 750-8585 


(312) 329-0332 


(310) 843-3100 

PACIFIC NORTHWEST 

REGION 

(415) 231-6720 


AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

One Battery Park Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10004-1405 

For more information, contact Midwest Region Executive Director Judith Shenkman at (312) 329-0332 

or jshenkman@afhu.org. To learn more, visit www.afhu.org.

afhu-news-2015

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