2024 BAA Tribute Journal

September 14, 2024

EVENING PROGRAM 

WELCOME 

Joyce Brandman, Renae Jacobs-Anson & Helen Jacobs-Lepor 

INTRODUCTION OF 

THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT 

Barbara Natterson-Horowitz 

GREETINGS FROM 

THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 

President Prof. Asher Cohen 

PERFORMANCE 

John Torres & Liyah Bey 

— DINNER IS SERVED — 

INTRODUCTION OF 

THE STUDENT AMBASSADOR 

Ariel Anson & Marissa Lepor 

IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS 

Shona Goldwirth 

PRESENTATION OF THE 2024 

HUMANITARIAN TORCH OF LEARNING AWARD 

Patricia L. Glaser 

ACCEPTANCE REMARKS 

Drs. Melina & Eric Esrailian 

CLOSING REMARKS 

Richard S. Ziman 

Be sure to capture tonight’s memories by tagging your photos with #BelAirAffaire2024 

| the hebrew university of jerusalem 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

DRS. MELINA & ERIC ESRAILIAN Honorees 5 

PROF. ASHER COHEN President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem 6 

SHONA GOLDWIRTH Hebrew University Student Ambassador 7 

JOHN TORRES Songwriter, Recording Artist, and Vocalist 8 

LIYAH BEY Singer 9 

AREG AVANESSIAN Spago Chef de Cuisine 10 

ARMEN AYVAZYAN Chi Spacca Chef de Cuisine 10 

NANCY SILVERTON Chef and Co-Owner Chi Spacca 11 

RENE MATA Chinois on Main Chef de Cuisine 11 

DELLA GOSSETT Spago Executive Pastry Chef 12 

AM YISRAEL CHAI 13 

STAND BY ME 14 

WITH SINCERE GRATITUDE 15 

HONOR ROLL 18 

GREETINGS: PRESIDENT PROF. ASHER COHEN 23 

AFHU PRESIDENT & CEO 24 

WESTERN REGION BOARD PRESIDENT 25 

EVENT CO-CHAIRS 26 

SCHOLARSHIPS & ARMENIAN STUDIES PROGRAM 27 

WE ARE ONE 28 

UCLA AND THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 29 

RE'EM SARI AT CALTECH 31 

SINAI TEMPLE ISRAEL CENTER SPEAKER SERIES 31 

SAUL AND JOYCE BRANDMAN RESIDENCE PARK 32 

IN MEMORIAM 33 

IN MEMORY OF BRINDELL GOTTLIEB (Z”L) 36 

THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 37 

DID YOU KNOW? 39 

GET TO KNOW OUR FACULTY 41 

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT: YONA SHEMESH 45 

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT: LIELE SAMIN 46 

SAVE THE DATES 50 

TRIBUTES 59 

Facebook: @amfriendshu | X: @ amfriendshu | Insta: @amfriendshu 

Youtube: AmFriendsHU | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/afhu 

#BelAirAffaire2024 

4 

| the hebrew university of jerusalem

DRS. MELINA & 

ERIC ESRAILIAN 

2024 HUMANITARIAN 

TORCH OF LEARNING 

HONOREES 

Drs. Eric and Melina Esrailian have 

been active in the Los Angeles, 

philanthropic, academic, and 

Armenian communities for decades. Eric is the chief of the Vatche and Tamar 

Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at the David Geffen School of 

Medicine at UCLA. He is also an Emmy-nominated producer, philanthropist, 

investor, and entrepreneur. Melina is a practicing dentist with a background in 

public health, and she is also a successful real estate investor. In 2017, UCLA 

designated Eric as one of its UCLA Optimists and notable alumni, leading 

faculty, visionary partners, and advanced scholars. The Esrailians have been 

closely involved in establishing The Promise Institute for Human Rights at 

the UCLA School of Law and The Promise Armenian Institute at UCLA—to 

formalize an organization at UCLA to protect Armenian scholarship, history, 

language, and culture. They were first introduced to the Hebrew University 

of Jerusalem by their dear friend Patty Glaser, and they have been honored 

to support the institution alongside Patty over the years. Jerusalem is home 

to one of the oldest Armenian communities in the world, but the community 

is shrinking and under threat. The Esrailians look forward to working with 

American Friends of the Hebrew University to support, educate, and inspire 

leaders who will make the world a better place for Jews, Armenians, and all 

people in Jerusalem and beyond. 


PROF. 

ASHER COHEN 

PRESIDENT OF THE HEBREW 

UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 

Professor Asher Cohen has served as 

President of the Hebrew University of 

Jerusalem since 2017, having previously 

served as University rector. He has held 

numerous leadership roles in academia, including leadership of the 

Association of University Professors in Israel. A specialist in cognitive 

science, Professor Cohen’s research focused on the relationship between 

the human perception system and human response mechanisms in 

situations requiring rapid motor responses. Professor Cohen and his team 

developed a theoretical model that predicts situations in which performing 

simultaneous tasks leads to a decline in abilities, and he has written and 

spoken on topics ranging from the role of implicit learning to cognitive 

aspects of task performance. 

Professor Cohen received a B.A. in Economics and an M.A. in Psychology 

from the Hebrew University and later pursued doctoral and post-doctoral 

studies at the University of Oregon. He was a senior lecturer at Indiana 

University before returning in the early 1990s to the Hebrew University’s 

Department of Psychology, where he served as department head from 2008 

to 2012. Professor Cohen holds the Samuel Sturman Chair in Psychology and 

serves on the board of the Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning. 

6 


SHONA 

GOLDWIRTH 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

STUDENT AMBASSADOR 

Shona Goldwirth, a 25-year-old third-year 

medical student at Hebrew University, was 

born in Los Angeles and raised in Ramat Gan, 

Israel, after making Aliyah with her family at 

age six. She graduated from Blich High School, majoring in chemistry and 

medical science. During her IDF service, Shona worked as an interviewer 

and profiler, eventually becoming a commander and instructor. Her military 

service allowed her to interact with diverse social groups and taught her the 

importance of acceptance and non-judgment. Initially interested in becoming 

a human rights lawyer, her passion shifted towards a therapeutic profession 

after a transformative gap year in "Midreshet Beit Prat," a humanities program 

that unites non-religious and religious students. 

Shortly after, she began teaching students how to prepare for psychometric 

tests, which helped her realize she no longer wanted to be a lawyer. Her 

subsequent volunteering at an intellectual disability rehabilitation center 

and in the psychiatry department at Sheba Hospital in Tel HaShomer 

further solidified her decision to study medicine. 

Currently in her third year of medical school, Shona has launched a 

psychometric exam tutoring business. As the first person in her immediate 

family to attend college, she is deeply grateful for the financial support 

from the Hebrew University. Amid her studies, she initiated a volunteer 

program with fellow medical students to support hospitals during the war. 

This effort expanded to include 4,000 student-volunteers nationwide. 

Concurrently, she is part of the team in charge of the national mission 

of identifying missing and kidnapped civilians at the National Institute of 

Forensic Medicine. These experiences have reinforced her commitment to 

helping others and to providing equitable medical care and education. 


JOHN TORRES 

SONGWRITER, RECORDING 

ARTIST, AND VOCALIST 

John Torres is a songwriter, recording 

artist, and vocalist who has been 

making music for close to 30 years. 

A native of Los Angeles, California, 

his work has spanned a wide range of 

genres and styles, from indie, folk, and 

singer-songwriter to opera and musical 

theater. As a songwriter, John has 

received numerous honors including 

a John Lennon Songwriting Award, 

an L.A. Stage Alliance Ovation Award, and nominations by the American 

Independent Music Awards and Stage Raw Theater Awards. In addition, his 

music has been featured on many T.V. shows and networks (such as MTV, 

ABC, NBC, and TLC), as well as multiple short and feature length films. 

John has written over 300 songs to date and has produced and co-produced 

hundreds of tracks, for both his own music, as well as for other artists. 

He’s the founding member of the indie folk band, Towers of Temple City. 

In 2019, Torres co-composed the music and lyrics to the now awardwinning 

musical theater adaptation of the 1980 Warner Bros film Bronco 

Billy, which was nominated for 9 L.A. Stage Raw Awards (Including 

Original Music), and won 2 Ovation Awards (including Lyrics/Composition 

for an Original Musical). This year, Bronco Billy made its West End debut in 

London’s Charing Cross Theater. 

John proudly serves on the Board of Directors for Bresee, a non-profit 

organization in the heart of Los Angeles, dedicated to fighting poverty by 

empowering youth and families with the skills, resources and relationships 

necessary to thrive. 

In 2022, John released his fifth album, Shelter in Places, which he wrote and 

produced entirely himself during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

8 


LIYAH BEY 

SINGER 

Liyah Bey is an internationally in-demand 

Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter. Born 

in Israel, she gained national recognition as a 

teenager in the celebrated revue Lady Soul, 

A Tribute to Aretha Franklin. 

Liyah's musical journey began early, 

encouraged by her mother, Chana. At 1½, she astounded her parents by 

singing a Carole King song in English. By age 10, she performed before 

thousands at Ben Gurion University’s Student Day celebration. Influenced 

by American artists like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Led 

Zeppelin, Prince, and Michael Jackson, she developed a unique style blending 

classic R&B, pop, and blue-eyed soul. 

Her songwriting focuses on emotional resilience and the joy of music. After her 

success with the Aretha tribute, she moved to New York, collaborating with artists 

like Kool and the Gang. Rejecting offers from major pop producers, Liyah chose to 

follow her own path and relocated to Los Angeles to focus on her writing. 

Her debut solo release, Can't Stop Loving You, a ballad showcasing her 

vocal prowess, garnered 1 million likes on Facebook. Her latest release, 

Million Dollar Girl, continues to build her fanbase with its fierce, playful 

neo-soul-pop sound. 

Liyah recently co-wrote a song with Robert Randolph and John Burke for the 

upcoming movie Sweetwater and opened for Boy George and Culture Club at 

the Fred Kavli Theater. She is currently working with Monogram Records on her 

upcoming album and hosted a Hanukkah Special on JLTV in December 2022. 

Wishing a heartfelt congratulations 

to Hella & Chuck Hershson who are 

celebrating their wedding anniversary 

tonight, September 14, 2024. 


AREG AVANESSIAN 

SPAGO CHEF DE CUISINE 

Areg Avanessian, born in 1987 to an 

Armenian family that immigrated from 

Tehran to California, has always been 

deeply influenced by his heritage and 

his mother's cooking, sparking his early 

passion for food and flavors. 

After working with his father in 

construction, he quickly realized he was 

not meant for that line of work. Driven by his passion for the culinary world, 

he enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu, where he graduated as valedictorian. In 

2011, he joined Spago as a Saucier and spent the next 11 years mastering the 

Wolfgang Puck culture. In 2022, he was named Chef de Cuisine at Spago. 

ARMEN AYVAZYAN 

CHI SPACCA CHEF DE CUISINE 

Ayvazyan, a native of Glendale, began 

his culinary career at Bouchon in Beverly 

Hills, honing his skills as a line cook for 

over three years. After a year at Quince 

in San Francisco, specializing in the meat 

station, he returned to Southern California 

in 2015 to serve as Executive Sous Chef 

at The Rose in Venice. He later joined the 

founding team at Eric Bost's Auburn, which opened in 2019 but closed 

in 2020 due to the pandemic. Ayvazyan is now Chef de Cuisine at Chi 

Spacca, where he continues to showcase his culinary expertise. 

10 


NANCY SILVERTON 

CHEF AND CO-OWNER 

PIZZERIA MOZZA, OSTERIA 

MOZZA, MOZZA2GO 

& CHI SPACCA 

Nancy Silverton, co-owner of Pizzeria 

Mozza, Osteria Mozza, Mozza2Go and 

chi SPACCA in Los Angeles, founded 

the iconic La Brea Bakery and Campanile 

Restaurant. She has worked with notable 

and influential chefs like Jonathan Waxman and Wolfgang Puck and has 

mentored many who have become award-winning chefs. Silverton has been 

recognized as Food and Wine's "Best New Chef" and received the James 

Beard Foundation's "Outstanding Chef" award in 2014. She is also an 

accomplished author of eight cookbooks and actively supports charities like 

No Kid Hungry and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. 

RENE MATA 

CHINOIS ON MAIN 

CHEF DE CUISINE 

Born and raised in El Salvador, Rene moved 

to Los Angeles at the age of 21. His cooking 

talents were first recognized by his sister 

and a family who owned a market and 

deli. Rene began working in a Japanese 

restaurant called Kushimbo and then Pear 

Garden. It was there that Rene met Kazuto 

Matsusaka, Makoto Tanaka, Luis Diaz, and his future wife, Reiko. In 1987, 

Rene was recruited by Kazuto as line cook at Chinois on Main. Rene had no 

formal culinary training. He absorbed basic skills and ideas from traditional 

Asian kitchens. Five years later, Rene was promoted to Executive Sous Chef 

at Chinois on Main, and last year he became the Executive Chef. His talent 

and ambition have helped establish Chinois as one of the top restaurants in 

Los Angeles and the world. Rene’s cuisine blends fresh California ingredients 

with Asian techniques. Rene resides in Granada Hills with his wife. 


DELLA GOSSETT 

SPAGO EXECUTIVE 

PASTRY CHEF 

Della Gossett, who holds a B.A. in 

Arts Education and Painting from the 

University of Illinois, began her culinary 

career at Trio in Evanston, working with 

notable chefs Gale Gand and Shawn 

McClain. She gained recognition in New 

York by winning first place in the Quady 

Wine and Dessert Pairing Competition in 2000. 

Returning to Chicago in 2001, she spent nearly a decade as the pastry chef 

at Charlie Trotter’s, where she collaborated with top chefs, including Ferran 

Adria, and trained with Ramon Morato in Spain, before joining The French 

Pastry School as an instructor. 

In 2012, she led the pastry department at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago and has 

since been honored with the National Pastry Team Championship in 2011 

and a Silver Medal in the 2012 World Pastry Championship. 

12 


AM YISRAEL CHAI 

The Nation of Israel Lives 

The sun will shine soon 

we'll know better days that these 

the heart fights with worry 

everyone will return home 

we'll wait for them below 

hopefully we'll know good news 

Because the eternal people 

never fear 

even when it's hard to see 

we're all together, no one here 

is alone 

when the wars burns 

The nation of Israel lives 

if we'll not forget always to be united 

the nation of Israel lives 

during ascents and during declines, 

even during the hardest hours 

G-d, the blessed one, he watches 

over us 

so who can triumph over us 

because we have no other land 

will make peace amongst ourselves 

watch over our children 

because we haven't lose our faith 

Oh my land is our heritage 

our spirits will not fall now 

around us, an iron of swords 

and the dove will spread her wings 

the hope of two thousand years 

we'll go out in the streets 

to sing again 

Because the eternal people 

never fear 

even when it's hard to see 

we're all together, no one here 

is alone 

we'll go out in the streets to sing 

‏]בית 1[ 

בקרוב תזרח השמש 

נדע ימים יפים מאלה 

הלב נלחם בדאגות 

כולם יחזרו הביתה 

נחכה להם למטה 

הלוואי נדע בשורות טובות 

‏]קדם-פזמון 

כי עם הנצח לעולם לא מפחד 

אפילו כשקשה לראות 

כולם ביחד אף אחד פה לא בודד 

שישרפו המלחמות 

‏]פזמון[‏ 

עם ישראל ח 

אם לא נשכח תמיד להיות מאוחדים 


בעליות בירידות גם בשעות הכי קשות 

הקדוש ברוך הוא שומר עלינ 

אז מי יכול עלינ 

כי אין לנו עוד מדינה 

תעשה שלום בינינ 

שמור על ילדינ 

כי לא אבדה האמונה 

או-או-או-או-או-א 

או-או-או-או-או-או-א 

עם ישראל עם ישראל ח 




‏]בית 2[ 

הו ארצי נחלתנ 

לא תיפול כעת רוחנ 

מסביב ברזל של חרבות 

ויונה תפרוש כנפיים 

התקווה בת שנות אלפיים 

עוד נצא לשיר ברחובות 

‏]קדם-פזמון 

כי עם הנצח לעולם לא מפחד 

אפילו כשקשה לראות 

כולם ביחד אף אחד פה לא בודד 

שישרפו המלחמות 

‏]פזמון[‏ 


אם לא נשכח תמיד להיות מאוחדים 


בעליות בירידות גם בשעות הכי קשות 















עם ישראל עם ישראל ח 



כי עם ישראל עם ישראל חי 


STAND BY ME 

When the night has come 

And the land is dark 

And the moon is the only light we'll see 

No, I won't be afraid 

Oh, I won't be afraid 

Just as long as you stand, stand by me 

So darling, darling 

Stand by me, oh stand by me 

Oh stand, stand by me 

Stand by me 

If the sky that we look upon 

Should tumble and fall 

Or the mountain should crumble to the sea 

I won't cry, I won't cry 

No, I won't shed a tear 

Just as long as you stand, stand by me 

And darling, darling 


Oh stand now, stand by me 

Stand by me 

Darling, darling 


Oh stand now, stand by me, stand by me 

Whenever you're in trouble won't you 

stand by me 

Oh stand by me, oh won't you stand now, 

stand 

Stand by me... 

14 


WITH SINCERE GRATITUDE 

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

EXTENDS A HEARTFELT THANKS 

TO OUR GRACIOUS EVENT HOST 

Stephen J. Cloobeck 

OUR INVALUABLE EVENT CO-CHAIRS 

AND HONORARY CHAIRS 

Joyce Brandman 

Renae Jacobs-Anson & Dr. David Anson 

Helen Jacobs-Lepor & Dr. Norman Lepor 

Patricia L. Glaser & Sam Mudie 

May & Richard Ziman 

OUR SINCERE APPRECIATION TO 

THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR UNDERWRITING 

Take-home gifts graciously wrapped with love by 

Mindy Mann 

Bar graciously underwritten by 

Hella & Chuck Hershson 

Special thanks to Judy & Richard Zeller 

for their in-kind alcohol contribution 

CATERING curated by BARBARA LAZAROFF featuring 

Spago Executive Chef Areg Avanessian 

Chi Spacca Chef de Cuisine Armen Ayvazyan and Chef Nancy Silverton 

Chinois on Main Chef de Cuisine Rene Mata 

Spago Executive Pastry Chef Della Gossett 

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR BEL AIR AFFAIRE VENDORS 

Event Production: Steve Petrarca 

Florals: Josie Dizon-Baquiran, Hello Flower Goods 

Rentals: Town & Country, Theoni Collection 

Production: Danny Bergold, About Entertainment 

Photography: Randy Shropshire 

Design: Lisa Garza-Hillman, inkfish design 

Valet: Chuck’s Parking 

Lighting & Audio: Modern Illumination 


THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 

Daniel I. Schlessinger, Chair, Board of Governors 

Professor Asher Cohen, President 

Professor Menahem Ben-Sasson, Chancellor 

Professor Tamir Sheafer, Rector 

Yishai Fraenkel, Vice President and Director-General 

Ambassador Yossi Gal, Vice President for Advancement and External Relations 

Professor Mona Khoury, Vice President for Strategy and Diversity 

Professor Aaron Palmon, Vice President for Research and Development 

Professor Oron Shagrir, Vice President for International Affairs 

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF 

THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

Pamela Nadler Emmerich, National President 

Clive Kabatznik, National Chair of the Board 

Joshua W. Rednik, Chief Executive Officer 

Ariel Londoño, Chief Financial and Operations Officer 

Alison Freed, Chief Development Officer 

Glennys Huhn, Chief Human Resources Officer 

Eileen Hume, Chief Strategy Officer 

Monica Loebl, National Director of Development 

16 


AFHU WESTERN REGION 

Barbara Natterson-Horowitz, M.D., President 

Richard S. Ziman, Chair 

Joyce Brandman, Vice Chair 

Mark Genender, Vice Chair 

Patricia L. Glaser, Vice Chair 

Mark S. Vidergauz, Vice Chair 

Jonathan Anschell | Ariel Anson | Matthew D. Babrick | Barry Berkett 

Josh Binder | Alan Bloch | Annette Blum | Julia Cherlow | Bruce Cooperman 

Michael Cypers | Brandon Edwards | Richard N. Eidinger | Zoila Escobar 

Ruth Flinkman-Marandy | Steve Frankel | Gary Frischling | Stuart Goldstein 

Steven Good | Lou Gram | Gali Grant | Chuck Hershson | William H. Isacoff 

Renae Jacobs-Anson | Helen Jacobs-Lepor | Michael Koss | Chad Lasdon 

Marissa Lepor | Jesse Levin | Barry Lippman | Mindy Rothstein Mann 

Marshall Peck | Jaye-Jo Portanova | David Ricanati | Marc M. Rosenbach 

Franck Ruimy | Randy Schoenberg | Marc Seltzer | Lynne Silbert 

Linda Smith | Todd Strassman | Peter Weil | David Wulkan | Jake Zacuto 

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE DEDICATED AFHU STAFF 

WHO MADE THIS EVENING A SUCCESS 

Justin Pressman, Executive Director, Western Region 

Brad Eisen, Philanthropy Officer 

Grecia Lacayo, Junior Philanthropy Associate 

Monica Hirsch, Junior Philanthropy Associate 

Skylar Klembith, Development Coordinator 


HONOR ROLL 

DIAMOND 

Joyce Brandman, The Saul & Joyce Brandman Foundation 

Ellen Bronfman-Hauptman & Andrew Hauptman 

Nancy & Kenneth L. Stein 

PLATINUM 

Renae Jacobs-Anson & David Anson 

Belldegrun Family Foundation 

Martha & Barry Berkett 

Roberta & Stanley Bogen 

Zoila D. Escobar & Cástulo de la Rocha, AltaMed 

Diann Kim & John Frank 


William Isacoff 

Marilyn & Jeffrey Katzenberg 

Corie & Michael Koss 

Helen Jacobs-Lepor & Norman Lepor 

Allison & Tom Levyn 

Anthony & Jeanne Pritzker Family Foundation 

Robin & Jeff Raich 

The Rosenbloom Family 

Cheryl Lewis & Mark Siegel 

Lynne G. Silbert & Seth M. Weingarten 

Charlene Andersson & Harry Zimmerman 

18 


GOLD 

Arnon Adar 

Nancy Berman & Alan Bloch 

Sherri & John Fogelman 

Patricia L. Glaser & Sam Mudie 

Soraya Sarah Nazarian, Younes & Soraya Nazarian Family Foundation 

Evelina & Franck Ruimy 

Lee & Mickey Segal 

Dr. Sharon & Mark Vidergauz 


SILVER 

Anonymous 

Jessica & Matthew D. Babrick 

Elyssa & Gil Elbaz 

Cindy & Gary Frischling 

Ellen & Mark Genender 

Shari & Ed Glazer 

Nooshi & Sam Gruenbaum 

Myna & Uri Herscher 

Barbara Natterson-Horowitz & Zachary Horowitz 

Kathy Javor 

Martha & Bruce Karsh 

Ruth Flinkman-Marandy & Ben Marandy 

Lea & Barry Porter 

Michelle & Marc Rosenbach 

Debra & James Schreier 

Julie & Peter Weil 


BRONZE 

Anonymous 

Jonathan Anschell 

Ares Management 

Howard Banchik 

Irma & Benjamin Breslauer, Samuel & Helene Soref Foundation 

Sue & Barry Brucker 

Raquelle de la Rocha & Daniel Bussel 

Jaye-Jo Portanova-Cooperman & Bruce Cooperman 

Tricia & Thomas Corby 

Jackie Tavelman & Michael Cypers 

Perla Karney & Bob Edelstein 

Jennifer & Richard Eidinger 

Susan Feinstein 

Steve Frankel & Dan Ricketts 

Susan Lopez-Giss & Harvey Giss 

Anessa Karney & Stuart Goldstein 

Bari & Steve Good 

Hitter Family Foundation 

Daniel Horwitz 

Lenore & Fred Kayne 

Doreen & Leon Lewin 

Renee & Meyer Luskin 

Mark D. Manber 

Mindy & Robert Mann 

Alya & Gary Michelson 

Beth & David Ricanati 

Goldman Sachs 

Christina Snyder & Marc Seltzer 

Annette & Leonard Shapiro 

Sheryl & Jonathan D. Sokoloff 

Jonathan Victor 

20 


TICKETS & CONTRIBUTIONS 

Laleh & Frank Bardi 

Sahar Bardi 

Nathan Becker 

Joel Berman 

Annette Blum 

Linda & Gary Briskman 

Charlotte & Warren Coughlin 

Milan Chatterjee 

Kim & Craig Darian, Occidental Entertainment 

Alexis Diamond 

Melissa Strecansky & David Donenberg 

Pamela Nadler Emmerich 

Julie Gal 

Cherna Gitnick 

Beatrice Fingerhut & Brian Graziano 

Shana & Nick Grouf 

Autumn Chiklis & Dor Gvirtsman 

Caroline & Michael Hackman 

Blanca Hadar 

Priscilla & James Halper 

Patricia Herskovic 

The Herzer Foundation 

Rabbi Josh Kalev 

Narine & Arthur Kezian 

Yael & Michael Kotick 

Carol A. & Michael S. Kurtz 

Sherry Lansing 

Chad Lasdon 

Barbara Lazaroff 

Amy & Jesse Levin 

John Lewin 

Connie & Martin Mandles 

Lee & Francesca McCormick 

Betty & Howard Mendelson 

Michael & Lori Milken Family Foundation 

Samantha Rifkin & Rafi Mizrahi 

Rabbi Michele Paskow 

Murray Pepper 

Rachael Petru & Dan Gold, UCLA Hillel 


Eli Rivkin 

Natalie Roberts 

Marcy D. Schlessinger & Daniel I. Schlessinger 

Charles Schuster 

Esther Friedman & Daniel Schwartz 

Linda Smith 

Laurie & Todd Strassman 

The Streisand Foundation 

Holly & Joel Strom 

Janet Treisman 

Jennifer & Jean-Louis Velaise 

Lauren & David Wulkan 

India Yaffe 

Sarah & Shoa Yazdani 

Rosalie T. Zalis 

Listings as of 08.21.2024 

22 



HEBREW UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT 

Dear Melina and Eric, 

On behalf of everyone at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, I offer my warmest 

congratulations on this auspicious occasion of your receiving the Humanitarian Torch 

of Learning Award. Your generous support of the University and your commitment to 

public service in communities around the world exemplify the Humanitarian Torch of 

Learning, which celebrates the transformative power of education. 

Your leadership to advance human rights, social justice, education, public health, and 

medicine sets a powerful example for others to follow. Your advocacy for equality and 

justice, particularly your pivotal role in advocating for the Unites States to recognize 

the Armenian Genocide, inspires us all. 

The parallels between Israel and Armenia are undeniable, as both peoples have 

faced unimaginable persecution yet emerged with unyielding spirits, preserving their 

ancient cultures and maintaining a fervent, unbroken connection to their ancestral 

homelands across their global diasporas. 

Home to the oldest Armenian diaspora outside Armenia, Jerusalem became a refuge 

for thousands of Armenians fleeing the Armenian Genocide. Bound by our intrinsic 

connection to Jerusalem, the Hebrew University is committed to honoring Armenia’s 

rich history and culture, and celebrating the significant contributions of Armenian 

academics, writers, craftsmen, and artists to Jerusalem’s cultural landscape. 

We have many reasons to thank you for your generosity. Your support has enabled 

scholarships for deserving undergraduate and graduate students from all walks of 

life. It has also enabled the University to recruit top-notch scholars to our faculty and 

foster academic collaboration with UCLA. This collaboration not only strengthens 

the bond between two world-class institutions, but enhances the relationship 

between the United States and the State of Israel. 

As we gather at the Bel Air Affaire, I’d like to acknowledge the Esrailians’ and 

Hebrew University’s mutual pursuit of freedom, justice, and shared commitment 

to confronting the legacies of genocide. By advancing understanding, education, 

reconciliation, and resilience, our partnership will continue to work towards a 

future of mutual respect and enduring peace for Jews, Armenians, and all people in 

Jerusalem and beyond. We Are One. 

With warmest regards, 

Asher Cohen 

President, Hebrew University of Jerusalem 


GREETINGS FROM OUR 

NATIONAL AFHU LEADERSHIP 

Dear Melina and Eric, 

Congratulations on receiving the American Friends of the Hebrew University 

Humanitarian Torch of Learning Award at this year’s Bel Air Affaire. 

Your visionary leadership—spanning education, human rights, public health, and 

medicine—exemplifies the spirit of the Humanitarian 24 Torch July 2023 24 of July Learning 2023 Award. 

This distinguished accolade is not merely a recognition of your exceptional 

Dear 

contributions, 

Roberta Dear Roberta and Stanley, and Stanley, 

but a testament to your unwavering dedication to the Hebrew 

University of Jerusalem. Through your involvement with Israel’s premiere academic 

On institution, behalf On of behalf American your of American support Friends Friends of has the Hebrew spurred of the Hebrew University scientific, University (AFHU), social, (AFHU), and cultural progress while 

congratulations educating 

congratulations 

the next being on 

generation named being recipients named 

of 

recipients of leaders. the Torch of the of Torch Learning of Learning Award. Award. 

We are conferring We are conferring this distinctive this distinctive honor upon honor you upon in celebration you in celebration of your of your 

commitment commitment 

Your remarkable 

to the Hebrew to the Hebrew 

generosity 

University University 

in supporting 

of Jerusalem, of Jerusalem, 

student 

its pursuit its 

scholarships, 

of pursuit higher of higher 

faculty recruitment, and 

education, education, and its development and its development of ground-breaking of ground-breaking new research. new research. Your Your 

leadership the UCLA-HU leadership on AFHU’s on Safe AFHU’s National Schools National Board collaboration of Board Directors of Directors and to your reduce and commitment your violence commitment to in to schools in California, 

unique Israel, events, unique and beyond events, including including has the Annual fostered the Leadership Annual a brighter Leadership Education future Education Forum for (ALEF), countless Forum (ALEF), and individuals and worldwide. 

your work your on work numerous on numerous galas and galas missions, and missions, have been have of been inestimable of inestimable benefit benefit 

to At AFHU a time 

to and AFHU 

when the and Hebrew antisemitism 

the Hebrew University. University. Through is alarmingly 

Through your generous on 

your 

the 

generous support rise and 

support of the college 

of the 

campuses across the 

university, university, especially especially the Lautenberg the Lautenberg Center for Center General for General and Tumor and Tumor 

United States face formidable challenges, your steadfast commitment to upholding 

Immunology, Immunology, the Roberta the Roberta and Stanley and Stanley Bogen Library Bogen at Library The Harry at The S. Harry Truman S. Truman 

Research human Research Institute rights Institute and for the countering Advancement for the Advancement the of forces Peace, of and Peace, that the seek and Bogen the to Family Bogen divide Family and destabilize society is 

Department Department 

deeply commendable. 

of Economics, of Economics, you have you chosen have to chosen champion to champion an institution an institution that that 

undergirds undergirds Israeli safety Israeli and safety security and security while providing while providing cutting edge cutting research edge research 

and technological and technological innovation innovation that benefits that benefits people throughout people throughout the world. the world. 

True to tonight’s theme, “We Are One”, we especially applaud your commitment to 

advancing Armenian scholarship, history, language, and culture. Rooted in our shared 

Beyond Judeo-Christian Beyond that, you that, have values you been have ardent of been respect, supporters ardent compassion, supporters and leaders and of leaders and worthy the of worthy pursuit of knowledge, your 

concerns concerns 

efforts ensure 

in your communities, in your communities, 

that the invaluable 

and you and both you 

contributions 

have both proven have to proven 

of 

be 

Armenian 

strong to be strong 

scholars and the vibrant 

advocates advocates for Israel for with Israel a deep with concern a deep concern for the nation’s for the nation’s future and future the and the 

legacy of Armenian traditions continue to thrive and inspire future generations. 

future of future the worldwide of the worldwide Jewish community. Jewish community. We are proud We are to proud add the to add Torch the of Torch of 

Learning Learning Award to Award your many to your honors, many honors, and we and applaud we applaud your dedication your dedication to the to the 

advancement It is with advancement immense of Israel of and pride Israel the and worldwide the deep worldwide Jewish gratitude community. Jewish that community. we confer upon you the Torch of 

Learning Award, adding this prestigious honor to your already illustrious array of 

accolades and awards. 

Sincerely, Sincerely, 

With gratitude and admiration, 

Pamela Nadler Nadler Emmerich Emmerich 

National National President 

President 


Joshua W. Rednik 

Chief Executive Officer 

Joshua W. Rednik 

Chief Executive Officer 

24 


GREETINGS 

FROM OUR 

WESTERN REGION 

BOARD PRESIDENT 

Welcome! We are thrilled you’ve joined us for 

tonight’s Bel Air Affaire. 

Tonight, we have the immense honor of recognizing 

our dear friends, Drs. Melina and Eric Esrailian, for their 

unwavering commitment to higher education, humanitarianism, and philanthropy. Their 

generosity has profoundly impacted numerous sectors, spanning health, human rights, 

education and the arts and entertainment. 

Especially given the current environment on US college campuses, supporting Hebrew 

University has never been more crucial. The University stands as a beacon of peace and 

hope in the Middle East, providing talented students with a world-class education while 

fostering mutual respect and understanding throughout its student body. 

As demonstrated through the Bel Air Affaire, scholarships are far more than financial 

support; they are catalysts for profound transformation. Our Hebrew University Student 

Ambassadors, like tonight’s Shona Goldwirth, exemplify this. Graduates, as they embark 

on their professional journeys, uplift their communities, driving socioeconomic growth and 

serving as role models of tomorrow. We are thrilled to welcome Shona to Los Angeles and 

look forward to hearing from her this evening. 

The success of the Bel Air Affaire is a testament to the remarkable dedication of our 

distinguished leaders. To our co-chairs, Joyce Brandman, Renae Jacobs-Anson, and Helen 

Jacobs-Lepor, we extend our deepest gratitude. Year after year, your unwavering commitment 

unites exceptional supporters and drives the next generation of AFHU leadership. We are 

thrilled that LEAD members Ariel Anson and Marissa Lepor were inspired to join you as both 

Bel Air Affaire Co-Chairs and as members of our Western Board. 

To the outstanding AFHU staff, thank you for going above and beyond in every aspect of 

your work. Your passion, creativity, and dedication have been instrumental in our ongoing 

success. We are proud to have you as part of our team and appreciate everything you do. 

And now, to all of you, our dear friends, our heartfelt thanks go out to you. Your generosity 

and steadfast support for the deserving students of Hebrew University inspire us all. 

With enduring gratitude, 

Barbara Natterson-Horowitz, MD 

President, AFHU Western Region 



THE CO-CHAIRS 

Dear Bel Air Affaire Family, 

As event co-chairs, we are thrilled to welcome 

you to the 15th Annual Bel Air Affaire. This year's event promises to be both meaningful 

and impactful. The Humanitarian Torch of Learning Award was established to recognize 

visionaries like tonight's honorees, Melina and Eric Esrailian, who have made remarkable 

local and global contributions. Among their many achievements, The Promise, coproduced 

by Eric, raised awareness of the Armenian Genocide and played a pivotal role 

in influencing President Joe Biden to become the first U.S. President to recognize the 

Armenian Genocide officially. 

Melina and Eric, as Armenian-Americans, embody tonight's theme, "We Are One." 

Through their unwavering support of Hebrew University, they have bridged cultures and 

demonstrated the essence of unity. 

Tonight's Bel Air Affaire promises to be unforgettable, thanks to Stephen J. Cloobeck 

graciously hosting it at his luxurious and culturally rich Papillon Estate. We sincerely 

thank Mabel Arrambide and Brandon Daryani for their invaluable assistance. 

Guests will be treated to a culinary masterpiece prepared by Barbara Lazaroff and a 

group of celebrity chefs who, like Barbara, love and admire Melina and Eric. They have 

generously donated their talent and time to delight your senses with exquisite flavors 

and artful presentations. A special thank you to Spago, Chinois, and Nancy Silverton's 

Chi Spacca for providing the food at cost. 

We are also excited to present a lineup of Armenian and Israeli-inspired entertainment, 

including performances by Armenian dancers and musicians during the cocktail hour. 

Featured artists during dinner include American singer-songwriter John Torres and 

Israeli-American singer-songwriter Liyah Bey, who will captivate us with performances 

inspired by our theme, "We Are One." 

This event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of key individuals. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Honorary Chairs Patty Glaser, Sam Mudie, May, and 

Richard Ziman, and the AFHU staff, especially Justin Pressman, for their tireless efforts. 

The proceeds from tonight will fund scholarships for deserving and courageous 

students who served in the IDF following October 7, 2023, and a portion will support 

the esteemed Armenian Studies Program at Hebrew University. Your continued support 

shapes the future of these scholarship recipients, enabling them to pursue higher 

education and fulfill their dreams. Together, we can continue positively impacting lives 

and fostering a brighter future for Israel and her people. Am Yisrael Chai! 

With warmest regards, 

Helen Jacobs-Lepor, Joyce Brandman, and Renae Jacobs-Anson 

26 


STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS 

AT THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM 

Ever wondered how you can directly impact a student's life? Look no further. 

Education is the key to unlocking a brighter future, and you have the power 

to make it happen. For a contribution of $5,000, you can provide a talented 

and deserving undergraduate student with one full year of education, opening 

doors to countless opportunities. Just imagine the knowledge they'll acquire, the 

connections they'll make, and the doors that will open for them. Your generosity 

will nurture their dreams and empower them to make a lasting impact on the 

world. So why wait? Invest in education today and you'll have a direct hand in 

shaping the future, one scholar at a time. 

If you wish to support student scholarships, or would like to make a gift in 

honor/in memory of a loved ones, please scan this QR code: 

Or contact our Western Region Office 

310.843.3100 | western@afhu.org 

1150 South Olive Street, Floor 10 

Los Angeles, CA 90015 

THE ARMENIAN STUDIES PROGRAM 

We are proud to announce that a portion of the proceeds from this year’s 

Bel Air Affaire will support the Armenian Studies Program at the Hebrew 

University. For more than 50 years, this esteemed program has integrated 

the study of the Armenian language, culture, and history within the broader 

context of the Caucasus, Middle East, and Eastern Christianity. 

The Hebrew University 

has significantly 

contributed to this 

important field of study, 

focusing on the shared 

histories, resilience, 

and unity between the 

Armenian and Jewish 

peoples. We Are One. 


Since October 7, Hebrew University students, faculty, and staff have continued 

to face adversity. But thanks to dedicated supporters like you, Hebrew 

University has been able to provide scholarships for the 5,000+ Hebrew 

University students serving in IDF reserve units and special programs, training, 

and support services designed to facilitate their return to the vibrant learning 

environment that drives innovation and academic excellence. Your participation 

in this year’s Bel Air Affaire holds special significance as scholarship funds will be 

dedicated to students who have selflessly served or continue to serve in the IDF. 

Your generosity profoundly impacts these courageous students. 

FAST FACTS 

• $9,700,000 raised worldwide 

• Over 750 donors from around the world 

• 5,000+ students served on reserve 

• 50 young evacuees joined the HU Youth Division 

HOUSING PROVIDED TO 

85 Evacuees 

10 Hadassah Medical Staff Members 

8 Reservists 

150 Members of the Home Front Command 

5 Evacuated Families in Rehovot 

1 Wounded Soldier in Eilat 

• 5 HU students and 2 faculty members provided dental treatment to 

hundreds of patients 

• The Clinical Legal Education Center restarted assistance by providing: 

» Site visits to evacuees in hotels to ensure accessibility 

» Legal assistance to the families of the Abducted and Missing 

• 12 Safra classrooms re-allocated for elementary students from Sderot 

• 300+ medical students volunteered at 5 different hospitals 

• 350 individuals attended workshops at the Paul Baerwald School 

of Social Work 

28 


LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: 

UCLA AND THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

OF JERUSALEM 

In a world that is increasingly globalized, Hebrew 

University is committed to nurturing partnerships to 

promote innovative teaching and research collaborations 

with renowned institutions around the world. 

American Friends of the Hebrew University is proud to foster several 

collaborations with UCLA, enabling a robust exchange of knowledge while 

strengthening the bond not just between two world-class institutions but 

between the United States and the State of Israel. Together, these joint 

projects help bring solutions to some of today’s most pressing issues: 

UCLA-HEBREW UNIVERSITY SAFE SCHOOLS PROJECT 

Slated to launch later this year, the UCLA-HU Safe Schools Project will 

connect UCLA and Hebrew University undergraduates, graduate students, 

academic scholars, and school safety practitioners worldwide to research 

the complex underlying causes of school violence. Led by UCLA Professor, 

Ron Avi Astor, and Hebrew University Vice President, Mona Khoury, 

participants will advance research on a variety of critical issues spanning 

gun violence, bullying, cyberbullying, youth suicide, substance abuse, 

and various forms of hate, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism, 

and bias against LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. The UCLA-HU 

Safe Schools Project will serve as a significant resource to create safe and 

welcoming schools in California, Israel, and beyond. 


MELDOLA MEDICAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM 

Established by the Nathanson Family in 2007, the Erika Meldola Fallek 

Hebrew University-UCLA Medical Student Exchange Program invites 

talented medical students from Hebrew University to spend three months 

learning at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. During their 

stay, students complete medical rotations with UCLA’s leading physicians, 

work with state-of-the-art technologies, and gain hands-on experience with 

healthcare best practices. These promising medical students return to Israel 

with enhanced 

knowledge and 

expertise, playing 

a critical role in 

delivering advanced 

medical care 

throughout Israel. 

THE YOUNES & SORAYA NAZARIAN 

CENTER FOR ISRAEL STUDIES 

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is proud to 

foster student exchange with the Y&S Nazarian Center for Israel Studies at 

UCLA. Dedicated to deepening the understanding of modern-day Israel, 

the Nazarian Center for Israel Studies sponsors courses for students of all 

backgrounds, conducts research, and brings leading scholars to UCLA, 

including recent visits by Hebrew University luminaries such as Prof. Reuven 

Hazan and Dean of Students Guy Harpaz. 

We are deeply grateful for our collaboration with UCLA, which enhances 

academic excellence, strengthens our institutions' bonds, and fosters a 

deeper understanding and appreciation of Israel within the global community. 

30 


LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: 

RE'EM SARI AT CALTECH 

We were delighted to welcome 

Professor Re’em Sari to Los Angeles 

during his sabbatical at Caltech. Prof. 

Sari is a professor of Astrophysics 

and Planetary Science at the Hebrew 

University’s Faculty of Science and 

previously served as Vice President for 

Research and Development. 

Professor Sari's research spans a variety of sub fields in astrophysics, including 

the investigation of the mystery of gamma-ray bursts, the development of 

models for the creation and evolution of planets in our solasr system, and the 

study of the dynamics of stars surrounding black holes in the center of galaxies. 

While in Los Angeles, Re’em Sari hosted an exclusive star gazing experience 

at Mount Wilson Observatory, one of the most famous telescopes in 

observational astronomy of the 20th century, for American Friends of the 

Hebrew University constituents. 

SINAI TEMPLE ISRAEL CENTER 

SPEAKER SERIES 

In partnership with Sinai Temple, AFHU has hosted a series of free 

community presentations featuring leading Hebrew University faculty 

members, addressing some of the most pressing global issues of our time. 

We are thrilled to provide HU 

faculty as a resource to the 

community and we deeply 

appreciate Sinai Temple for 

opening its doors and providing 

a platform to showcase the 

positive global impact of 

Hebrew University. 


TRANSFORMING JERUSALEM: 

SAUL AND JOYCE BRANDMAN 

RESIDENCE PARK 

The Brandman Science Residence Park will significantly transform the 

Hebrew University campus, providing a dynamic living space for hundreds 

of students and young families. Spanning over 35,000 square meters with 

seven buildings and 586 apartments, it will house 700 students and 90 

faculty members, complete with essential amenities like grocery stores, cafes, 

and childcare facilities. This new residential area aims to create a vibrant, 

around-the-clock academic and cultural environment, fostering community 

engagement and intellectual growth. The park will facilitate the integration of 

young faculty and postdoctoral researchers into the Jerusalem community, 

enhancing Hebrew University’s ability to recruit and absorb the best and 

brightest new scholars. Additionally, it will provide affordable housing, 

support local neighborhoods, strengthen Jerusalem's appeal and compete 

with other major cities, such as Tel Aviv and Haifa. The Brandman Science 

Residence Park will reflect the diversity of the faculty and student body and 

will serve as a model for a pluralistic and vibrant living community. 

32 


IN MEMORIAM 

REMEMBERING THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY 

MEMBERS LOST IN THE OCT 7TH TERROR ATTACK 

BY HAMAS AND THE SWORDS OF IRON WAR— 

MAY THEIR MEMORY BE A BLESSING (Z”L) 

Eyal Meir Berkowitz (z"l) 

Master Sgt. (res.) 

Student, The Faculty of Medicine 

Age 28, Jerusalem 

Gil Daniels (z"l) 


Graduate, The Faculty of Medicine 

Age 34, Ashdod 

Igal Flash (z"l) 

Graduate, Faculty of Agriculture, 

Food and Environment 

Age 66, Kfar Aza 

Yinon Fleischman (z”l) 

Graduate, History Department, 

Faculty of Humanities 


Michael Gal (z”l) 

SFC (res) 

Student between 2021-2022, 

Faculty of Social Sciences and 

the Faculty of Humanities 


Sagi Golan (z"l) 

Captain (reserves), IDF 

Graduate, Philosophy, Political 

Science and Economics program and 

the Federmann School of Public Policy 

and Governance 

Age 30, Raanana 

Erin Goren (z"l) 

Graduate,Glocal International 

Development Program, Faculty of 

Social Sciences 

Age 33, Kfar Azza 

Zachariah Pesach Haber (z"l) 

Maj. (res) 




Avshalom Haran (z"l) 



Age 65, Be'eri 

Shraga Hasid (z"l) 



Mazkeret Batya 

Majed Ibrahim (z"l) 

Student, The Rachel and Selim Benin 

School of Computer Science and 

Engineering 

Age 19, Abu Ghosh 

Shahar Kedman (z"l) 



Age 34, Ranen 


Lilach Kipnis (z"l) 

Graduate, School of Social Work 

and Social Welfare 

Age 60, Be’eri 

Eitan Koplovich (z"l) 

Capt. (res.) 

Student, The Faculty of Law and 

Faculty of Humanities 


Amiram Kuper (z"l) 



Age 86, Nir Oz 

Matan Lazar (z"l) 

Sgt.-Maj. (res.) 

Graduate, Nursing School, 

the Faculty of Medicine 

Age 32, Haifa 

Ofir Libstein (z"l) 

Head of Sha’ar Hanegev Council 

Graduate, Leadership Development 

in Municipalities Program, 

Federmann School of Public Policy 

and Governance 

Age 50, Kfar Azza 

Chaim Livne (z"l) 



Age 87, Nahal Oz 

Eitan Naeh (z”l) 


Student, the Pre-Academic 

Haredi Program 

Age 26, Sde Eliyahu 

Chen Nahmias (z"l) 

Sergeant Maj. 



Age 43, Even Yehuda 

Yuval Nir (z"l) 

Sergeant Maj. 



Age 43, Kfar Etzion 

Andrei Poshibai (z"l) 

Inspector, Israel Police 

Graduate, Institute of Criminology, 

Faculty of Law 

Age 39, Beer Sheva 

Tzur Saidi (z"l) 



Age 29, Gan HaDarom 

Daniel Ben Senior (z"l) 

Graduate, Nursing Department, 

Faculty of Medicine 

Age 33, Or Akiva 

Stanislav Sheinkman (z"l) 

Chief Inspector, Israel Police 

Graduate, Institute of Criminology, 

Faculty of Law 

Age 40, Rishon Lezion 

Israel Socol (z"l) 

Sgt.-Maj. (res.) 

Student, The Racah Institute of 

Physics, Faculty of Sciences 

Age 24, Karnei Shomron 

34 


Ya'akov (Yaakovi) Yinon (z"l) 



Age 79, Netiv HaAsara 

Dr. Yair Zaluf (z"l) 

Major (reserves), IDF 

Graduate, Tzameret Track 

(second cycle), Faculty of Medicine 

Age 32, Tel Mond 

Ari Yehiel Zenilman (z”l) 


Graduate Philosophy, Political Science 

and Economics program 

Age 32, Ma'ale Adumim 

BRING THEM HOME! 


IN MEMORY OF 

BEL AIR AFFAIRE FOUNDER, 

BRINDELL GOTTLIEB (Z”L) 

We recognize and honor the memory 

of Brindell Gottlieb (z”l), who founded 

the Bel Air Affaire and hosted the event 

at her beautiful home, “The Milton,” 

named after her beloved late husband, 

Milton Gottlieb (z”l). 

A Benefactor of the Hebrew University, 

Brindell was awarded an Honorary 

Fellowship and an Honorary Doctorate for 

her humanitarianism and for spearheading 

fundraising campaigns to support student 

scholarships. In addition to her leadership with American Friends of the 

Hebrew University and the Bel Air Affaire, Brindell’s generosity extended to 

a wide range of causes in the arts, medicine, culture, and education. 

May these images serve as a lasting tribute to the wonderful person she was 

and the indelible mark she left on those who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Brindell is deeply missed, and her legacy lives on through this special event 

and the flourishing community she helped build. 

36 


THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY 

OF JERUSALEM 

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is one of the world’s most distinguished 

academic and research institutions. The University is located in Israel, but its 

work transforms our global landscape. Its students, faculty, and alumni have 

won eight Nobel Prizes, developed treatments for countless diseases, and 

ignited innovation that has led to more than 10,750 patents. 

Distinguished alumni include Israeli Prime Ministers, two female Supreme 

Court Presidents, as well as 25% of Knesset members, and two-thirds of 

Israel’s Supreme Court Justices. 

For over nine decades, Israel has relied on HU for leadership in every 

sphere and for its unwavering and unparalleled commitment to excellence, 

multiculturalism, pluralism, and the cause of peace. We think HU’s founding 

fathers, Albert Einstein, Sigmund Freud, Chaim Weizmann, and Martin Buber 

would be quite proud. 

Since its founding in 1918 and opening in 1925, the Hebrew University of 

Jerusalem’s mission has been to develop cutting-edge research, educate 

leaders, and nurture future generations of outstanding scientists and 

scholars in all fields of learning. A globally recognized research powerhouse, 

HU embodies excellence across the spectrum of academic disciplines from 

the humanities, social sciences, and law to natural sciences, agriculture, 

engineering, and medicine. 


FAST FACTS 

6 

CAMPUSES 

7 

FACULTIES 

14 

SCHOOLS 

23,000+ 

STUDENTS 

1,422 

RESEARCHERS 

RESEARCH AND RANKINGS 

• > 100 Research centers 

• 4,200+ Research projects 

• 6 Affiliated medical 

institutes 

• 43% of Israel’s biotech 

research 

• #3 in Israel* 

• #22 in Mathematics* 

(Worldwide) 

• #15 Communication* 

(Worldwide) 

• #50 in Law* (Worldwide) 

* source: 2024 Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Ranking Consultancy) 

38 


DID YOU KNOW? 

Start-up nation: HU knows a thing or two about that. Thanks to Yissum, 

HU’s tech transfer company, HU has generated more than 11,600 patents, 

licensed 1,160+ technologies, created 3,490+ inventions, and spun out over 

260 companies. 

Economic Powerhouse? We think so. HU is one of Jerusalem’s top 

employers. More than 12% of salaries in Jerusalem come from Hebrew 

University and the direct economic impact of HU to the State of Israel is 

estimated to be around 4.2B NIS. 

Fearless pioneers: Hebrew University welcomed a remarkable 18% of 

first-generation students into its academic fold in 2022. Cheers to breaking 

barriers and paving the way for future generations. 

Speaking of trailblazers…. 

• Hebrew University's Hadassah Faculty of Medicine took the lead in 

1949, becoming Israel's very first school of medicine. 

• In 1953, Hebrew University proudly inaugurated the Faculty of Dental 

School, becoming Israel's first institution to offer proper training in 

dentistry. That’s certainly something to smile about. 

• In 1958, Hebrew University opened Israel's very first school of social 

work, initiating an undergraduate program that nurtured the seeds of 

compassion and generations of change-makers. 

• At Hebrew University, the Autism Center emerged as the first 

interdisciplinary university-based autism center in the Middle East. 

Fighting for the underdog: HU’s Legal Clinic offers pro bono legal services 

to the most disadvantaged populations of Jerusalem and around Israel. 

Paws-itive Impact: a haven for both furry and feathered friends alike, 

Hebrew University’s Koret School of Veterinary Medicine is the only 

veterinary school in Israel. 

What about unicorns? Well, while you likely won’t spot one at the Koret 

Veterinary School, among Israel’s most successful startup companies, a 

staggering 30% had visionary HU alumni among their founders in 2021. 


An archaeologist’s dream: many excavations in Israel have been led by Hebrew 

University researchers. Discovering the historical significance of Masada? Check. 

Dead Sea Scrolls? We know a thing or two about that. Herod’s bathtub? It's safe 

to say that HU has made a real "splash" in the world of archaeology. 

The Tastemakers of Tomorrow: When it comes to the future of food, Israel 

is second only to the U.S. in alternative protein investments. HU is stirring up a 

delectable revolution in the world of sustainable and revolutionary protein sources. 

Ever wondered why cherry tomatoes last so long? Scientists at the Robert 

H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food, and Environment developed a hybrid 

cherry tomato with a longer shelf-life with improved taste and disease 

resistance, allowing us to savor the flavors of summer all year long. 

Goodbye Mosquito Bites: Mosquitoes, the party crashers of summer, have 

met their match! HU researchers developed a skin coating from cellulose 

nanocrystals to prevent pesky mosquito bites. 

Go Green: Researchers from HU's Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture 

found that vertical greenliving walls can save up to 20% of energy used for air 

circulation in closed spaces. Being eco-friendly never looked so chic! 

Sustainability: The Coolest Trend on Campus. From sun-kissed solar 

panels (the largest system at an Israeli university) to solar-powered water 

heating systems, electric vehicle charging stations and a new recycling 

initiative, HU’s campuses are undergoing an eco-friendly transformation. 

Calling all film buffs. Look no further than Hebrew University’s Steven 

Spielberg Jewish Film Archive, the world’s largest Jewish film collection. 

Lights, Camera, History. 

When brilliance meets recognition: HU graduates dominate Stanford's list 

of most-cited scientists, with 21 of the top 50 and five soaring to the top 10. 

Who doesn’t love a guilt-free glass of wine? Thanks to researchers at 

Hebrew University, you can toss guilt aside. A glass of red wine was found 

to prevent the buildup of cholesterol after a meal of dark or red meat, so go 

ahead, raise your glasses tonight! 

Thanks to the incredible support of American donors, Hebrew 

University's pursuit of knowledge and innovation reaches new heights. 

Your generosity empowers researchers and students alike to dream big, 

make a difference, and create a brighter tomorrow. 

40 


GET TO KNOW OUR FACULTY 

HERMONA SOREQ 

Professor Emeritus at the Edmond & Lily 

Safra Center for Brain Sciences and Head 

of the Hermona Soreq Lab 

Since joining HU in 1986, Prof. 

Soreq has gone on to be a founding 

member of the Edmond & Lily Safra 

Center for Brain Sciences. Her work 

focuses on understanding the role of 

acetylcholine and related molecules 

in the brain, with particular emphasis 

on their involvement in neurological 

disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. 

Her transformative work continues 

our understanding of the brain and 

its disorders, offering hope for the 

development of novel treatments 

for those affected by neurological 

conditions. 

YAAKOV "KOBY" NAHMIAS 

Founding Director of the Alexander Grass 

Center for Bioengineering and Visiting 

Professor at Harvard Medical School 

A leading researcher in bioengineering 

and biomedical research, Yaakov 

“Koby” Nahmias won the Rappaport 

Prize for Biomedical Sciences for his 

groundbreaking work on liver tissue 

engineering and the development 

of nanotechnology therapies for the 

treatment of diabetes. He has also 

successfully transitioned into an 

emerging industry: cell-based meat. 

As founder of Believer Meats®, Prof. 

Nahmias is tackling the unsustainable 

food production ecosystem, aiming 

to combat the depletion of our Earth's 

resources by the meat industry. 


ELI PIKARSKY 

Dean of the Faculty of Medicine 

Prof. Eli Pikarsky focuses his research 

on the roles of immune system cells 

in cancer development by creating 

models that accurately simulate the 

disease in humans. A trained surgical 

pathologist and molecular biologist, 

he aims to elevate the Faculty through 

innovation and excellence, integrating 

clinical work with groundbreaking 

research in cancer biology. 

He is dedicated to enhancing HU’s 

global standing through strategic 

partnerships and interdisciplinary 

collaboration. He takes great 

pride in HU’s exceptional students 

and faculty, whose innovation 

and commitment to societal 

improvement embody the spirit of 


MERAV HAGAR SHAMIR 

Head of the Koret School 

of Veterinary Medicine 

Prof. Merav Hagar Shamir holds 

both a DVM and a B.Sc. degree in 

Biology from Hebrew University. 

She specializes in Veterinary 

Neurology and Neurosurgery, and 

is a Diplomate of the European 

College of Veterinary Neurology 

(Dipl. ECVN). Dr. Shamir’s 

research applies advanced medical 

discoveries to practice by focusing 

on the pathological pathways of 

naturally occurring diseases. She 

actively involves students in research 

and is dedicated to educating and 

supervising veterinary students 

and residents, promoting a holistic 

approach to veterinary medicine. 

42 


SARA COHEN 

Dean of the Rachel and Selim School of 

Computer Science and Engineering. 

Prof. Sara Cohen’s research focuses 

on both theoretical and practical 

aspects of database management 

systems, such as user-friendly and 

social network databases. Born in the 

United States, she moved to Israel 

in the eighth grade. Prof. Cohen 

earned both her B.S. in Computer 

Science and Ph.D. degree under 

the supervision of Prof. Shuky 

Sagiv at the Hebrew University. 

After graduating, Sara joined the 

faculty at the Industrial Engineering 

Department of the Technion – Israel 

Institute of Technology. After three 

years at Technion, she returned to 

Hebrew University and is proud to 

currently serve as the Dean of the 

Rachel and Selim Benin School of 


ASHER BEN-ARIEH 

Dean of the Paul Baerwald School of 

Social Work and Social Welfare. 

Asher Ben-Arieh holds the Haruv 

Chair for the Study of Child 

Maltreatment at the Hebrew 

University of Jerusalem. He has 

published extensively on children’s 

well-being and child maltreatment. 

He is also the founding editorin-chief 

of the Child Indicators 

Research Journal and the Child 

Well-Being: Indicators and Research 

book series. 

Since October 7, Asher launched 

the National Center for Innovation 

in Children’s Resilience and Mental 

Health and joined the Israel 

National Task Force caring for 

children who were abducted. 


GUY HARPAZ 

Dean of Students at Hebrew University 

Prior to becoming Dean, Prof. Guy 

Harpaz led the GLOCAL Program in 

Community Development Studies. 

His research focuses on European 

Union Law, EU-Israel relations, and 

international law, including human 

rights. Prof. Harpaz has published 

extensively in leading journals such 

as the Review of International Studies 

and the European Law Review. He 

holds the Arnold Brecht Chair in 

European Law, oversees student 

exchange programs at the Faculty of 

Law, and is Head of the Academic 

Committee of the European Forum. 

Prior to academia, he clerked at the 

Israeli Supreme Court and was a legal 

adviser in the Prime Minister's Office. 

Since October 7, the Dean of Student’s 

office has been responsible for 

providing counseling, psychological 

services, tutoring, and scholarships to 

students who have returned to campus 

after serving in the IDF. 

ODED SHOSEYOV 

Dean of the Rachel and Selim School of 


With 45 patents and more than 

a dozen companies based on his 

science, Prof. Oded Shoseyov 

is one of Israel’s most exciting 

serial inventors. His laboratory at 

Hebrew University partners with 

entrepreneurs, venture capital 

funds, and the Israel Innovation 

Authority to revitalize agriculture. 

Their work is transforming plants 

into sustainable production 

platforms for biomaterials, such as 

human collagen for tissue and organ 

printing (CollPlant), biologic drugs 

for conditions like rheumatoid 

arthritis, growth factors for cultured 

meat (Biobetter), probiotic bacteria 

for gut health (Wonder Veggies), 

and dairy proteins and fats without 

cows (Miruku). 

44 



SCHOLARSHIP 

RECIPIENT 

YONA SHEMESH 

B.A. in Middle East and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Humanities 

Combat Captain, Israel Defense Forces Reserves 

“During the war, many of us students tried to 

manage in both realms. It sometimes seems like an impossible mission.” 

Hello to my dear friends from the Bel Air Affaire, who I met half a year ago. 

So much has happened since then. Right after my trip to the U.S., I flew to Morocco 

to help provide earthquake relief. The day after I arrived back home in Israel, the 

unimaginable happened. 

Since October 7, I, along with many others from the Hebrew University community, 

have been called to the reserves. We are mourning those who were taken from us and 

are finding ways to help. Everyone in Israel was affected. I served on IDF reserve duty 

for five months on the Northern border as an officer - thank G-d none of my soldiers 

were hurt. We remain hopeful for the future but realize we may have to return to 

reserve duty soon. 

During the war, many of us students tried to manage in both realms. It sometimes 

seems like an impossible mission. However, thanks to your help, HU has been able to 

help us face these difficulties. Knowing that we will get extra help, if necessary, with 

tutoring, psychological assistance, and scholarships makes a huge difference. 

So, to our American Friends, who are such wonderful supporters, I am forever 

grateful for your presence every step of the way. 

On a happier note, I proposed to 

my lovely girlfriend, Dina (who is 

now serving in the IDF Intelligence 

Corps), and we are planning a 

wedding later this year. 

Thank you from all my heart. 

Yona Shemesh 


HEBREW 

UNIVERSITY 

SCHOLARSHIP 

RECIPIENT 

LIELE SAMIN 

M.A. in Jewish Education 

The Melton Centre for Jewish Education 

“I believe that education is the key to 

building a stronger society after the 

devastation of war.” 

My name is Liele Samin, and I would 

like to sincerely thank you for your 

generous support. 

Last month, I returned home to my 

wife and two small children in Kfar 

Adumim after serving five months in reserve duty on the Gaza Border. I was called 

to serve in a combat unit on October 7th, right after the horrific Hamas massacre, 

and remained at the Southern border for my entire service. This was a very difficult 

time for my young family. 

I come from a Zionist and observant family, and I deeply believe in Jewish 

education, which is why I decided to pursue my master’s degree. Jewish continuity 

relies on the foundations of Jewish identity and knowledge. These pillars keep our 

ancient people alive and foster an understanding of our roles and responsibilities 

as Jews. In light of rising antisemitism around the world, it is more important than 

ever to educate a new generation of Jews who are knowledgeable and proud of 

their heritage and committed to passing it on. 

My family lives in a small caravan, and our income is modest. I was hesitant about 

returning to university because of the cost. However, receiving a scholarship played 

a pivotal role in my decision to go back. Thank you for this! 

I hope that one day I will be able to pass your generosity forward. Praying for better 

days for Israel, for the return of our hostages, and for peace in our land. 

With appreciation, 

Liele Samin 

46 


Save the Date 

2025 PALM BEACH 

SCOPUS AWARD GALA 

1 

Celebrating 100 years of the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem 

Thursday, January 16, 2025 

THE BREAKERS 

PALM BEACH 

| the hebrew university of jerusalem 

47

SAVE THE DATE: MARCH 15, 2025 

American Friends of the Hebrew University is excited to join the 

Concern Foundation as a partner in the LA Marathon and Big 

5K. Concern is one of 60 official charity partners of the marathon 

and they have invited other like-minded organizations to be 

a part of their team to show solidarity for how nonprofits can 

work together toward a common cause. A portion of the funds 

raised from this AFHU–Concern Foundation partnership will be 

earmarked to support the Concern Foundation Laboratories at 

the Lautenberg Center for Immunology and Cancer Research at 


To learn more, please contact Brad Eisen at 

beisen@afhu.org or 310.843.3100. 

48 



SAVE THE DATE 

BEL AIR AFFAIRE 2025 

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2025 

50 


AFHU 

LEAD 

LEADERSHIP, 

EMPOWERMENT 

AND DEVELOPMENT 

LEADERSHIP 

EMPOWERMENT 

AND DEVELOPMENT 

DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS 

DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS 

AFHU is LEAD delighted is a leadership to welcome the empowerment third cohort of and Leadership Empowerment 

development initiative designed to develop the next 

and 

generation 

Development 

of leaders 

(LEAD). 

for 

AFHU 

American 

LEAD 

Friends 

connects 

of 

future 

the 

leaders 

Hebrew 

to Israel’s 

premier University institute support of higher of learning the Hebrew and research, University the Hebrew of University 

Jerusalem. 

of Jerusalem. This exclusive, 18-month immersive program is designed to 

develop The 18-month a new generation leadership of AFHU training leaders program who will includes serve as ambassadors for 

the 

US-based 

University 

seminars 

and its mission, 

featuring 

as well 

in-depth 

as promoters 

leadership 

of Israel's bright future. 

training, educational seminars, networking, and social 

opportunities. In addition, a week-long Israel experience, 

LEAD in which Cohort participants III members are will hosted participate by the in leadership Hebrew and training 

opportunities University, provides to engage a with behind-the-scenes and strengthen their look support at the of the Hebrew 

start-up nation. 

University. Members will enjoy three US-based sessions, beginning in January 

2025, AFHU featuring LEAD provides in-depth leadership historical training, context educational the founding seminars with 

of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and its pivotal role 

AFHU 

in the 

and 

formation 

HU leaders, 

and 

networking, 

continued 

and 

success 

more. 

of 

In 

the 

addition, 

state 

a 

of 

week-long Israel 

mission Israel. The in June curriculum 2025 will provide also introduces a behind-the-scenes participants look to at the 

start-up 

ground-breaking research taking place today and how HU 

nation. 

innovations 

Cohort 

are 

III members 

improving 

will 

lives 

experience 

around 

this 

the 

special 

world. 

opportunity as part 

of the University’s centennial celebrations, and will partake in exclusive 

programs 

For more 

and 

information 

festivities. 

or to apply, contact Laura Abrams, 

Leadership Development Director, at 561.948.3344 or 

labrams@afhu.org. 

LEAD Cohort III members will join the ranks of the 25 current LEAD 

graduates and will continue to grow the LEADership of AFHU and the 

Hebrew University. Congratulations! 


3 BADGE. com 

52 



54 


D I A M O N D 


D I A M O N D 

Congratulations to 

Melina & Eric Esrailian 

On receiving this 

well-deserved honor. 

We admire the work you 

have done for AFHU. 

With warm regards, 

Joyce Brandman and 

The Saul & Joyce Brandman 

Foundation 

56 


D I A M O N D 


58 


P L A T I N U M 



We are honored to support the outstanding 

students of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem 

who have served in the IDF since October 7th. 

MELINA and ERIC, 

we are so proud of you and your 

accomplishments. We stand with you in 

solidarity, supporting student scholarships 

and the Armenian Studies Department at 

the Hebrew University. “We Are One!" 

Helen, Joyce and Justin, thank you 

for your friendship, love, and laughter. 

How fortunate we all are to have each other. 

We celebrate tonight’s honorees, friends, 

scholarship recipients and remember 

Benita and Joseph Jacobs who helped 

lead the way for us to follow. 

Renae, David, Ariel, and Spencer Anson 

60 



To our dear friends 


Congratulations on receiving 

the Humanitarian Torch of 

Learning Award—a fitting tribute 

for your visionary leadership, 

inspirational work, and 

ongoing dedication to 

the Armenian community. 

With greatest appreciation as well for 

your contributions to making 

California a world leader in 

medical and science innovation. 

Drs. Rebecka & Arie Belldegrun 



We are so proud to be 

a part of the Hebrew University 

Family and everything it does 

in support of Israel and 

so many students in their quest 

to improve their lives. 

Martha & Barry Berkett 

62 



AltaMed Health Services 

is proud to support 

American Friends of 


Congratulations 

MELINA and ERIC ESRAILIAN 

on this well-deserved honor. 




MELINA and ERIC 

on this 

Most Deserved 

Recognition 

Diann Kim & John Frank 

64 





Thank you for all you do for 

Hebrew University 




MELINA and ERIC— 

I appreciate you, 

and value our friendship 

of many decades. 

Bill Isacoff 

66 



We are proud to 

honor our friends 


And join in supporting 

American Friends 

of the Hebrew University 



We are proud to support 


of the Hebrew University. 

Corie & Michael Koss 

68 




Your remarkable careers as physicians and 

producers have saved lives, inspired hearts, and raised 

global awareness of issues like the Armenian Genocide. 

Through your steadfast support of Hebrew University, 

you’ve bridged cultures and demonstrated true unity. 

You embody tonight’s theme, “We Are One,” showing 

that through unity, we can achieve the extraordinary. 

The Humanitarian Torch of Learning Award 

was established to recognize visionaries like you. 

Congratulations, and thank you for all 

you have done to earn this well-deserved honor. 

Renae and Joyce, we really are a dream team! 

Love you both. Together, “We Are One.” 

Justin Pressman and the AFHU staff, 

Together, we produced a truly meaningful evening. 

Thanks for all your hard work. 

With love, admiration, and appreciation to all, 

Helen Jacobs-Lepor & Norman Lepor 

Marissa Lepor 



A sincere thank you to 


for their support of 

the Hebrew University, 

belief in the power 

of education, 

and kindness 

and generosity 

over many years. 

Allison & Tom Levyn 

70 




DRS. MELINA and ERIC 

ESRAILIAN 

Tonight we celebrate you and 

recognize Helen & Norman Lepor 

for their dedication to the mission 

We are proud to stand with you. 



JEFF and ROBIN RAICH 

congratulate 


on receiving the 

Humanitarian Torch 

of Learning Award. 

72 



Congratulations to the amazing 

MELINA and ERIC ESRAILIAN. 

Your generosity, kindness, 

love of family, loyalty, 

and passion to do good 

serves as an inspiration 

to all who know you. 

We are honored 

to be your friends. 

With love. 

The Rosenbloom Family 



We congratulate our dear friends 



Your dedication to philanthropy 

is unsurpassed, and we especially 

thank you for helping 

HEBREW UNIVERSITY, 

a magnificent institution of 

higher learning during 

an exceptionally difficult 

period of time! 

Cheryl Lewis and Mark S. Siegel 

74 





Students, Faculty, 

HELEN, RENAE, JOYCE, 

PATTY and SAM 

We Are One. 

Peace 

Lynne and Seth 



Thank you, 

MELINA and ERIC. 

Thank you for being a beacon 

of kindness in our community. 

Your profound empathy proves 

that humanity can still thrive 

even in a world where 

the flame of kindness 

is starving for oxygen. 

On behalf of Charlene and myself as 

well as all of the other people you’ve 

touched we simply say, thank you 

Harry Zimmerman & 

Charlene Keleleshian-Andersson 

76 


G O L D 


G O L D 

Congratulations and best wishes 

to everyone at American Friends 

of Hebrew University. I salute your 

philanthropy, your enthusiasm, 

and your belief in a better future. 

Thank you for all that you do 

to support our next generation 

of leaders and innovators, 

the Jewish community, and 

the State of Israel. 

~ Arnon Adar ~ 

78 


G O L D 

We celebrate, 

MELINA and ERIC ESRAILIAN’S, 

unwavering leadership 

during these uncertain times. 

With love and respect, 

Sherri & John Fogelman 


G O L D 


are not just friends 

but family. 

Much deserved 

congratulations, 

and a sincere thank you 

for your support of 

the Hebrew University. 

Patty & Sam 

80 


G O L D 




Thank you for leading 

the way to empower 

the next generation 

of leaders and innovators 

in their academic aspirations 

at the Hebrew University 

of Jerusalem. 

Soraya Sarah Nazarian 

The Y&S Nazarian 

Family Foundation 


G O L D 





JOYCE, RENAE and HELEN 

to organize this fabulous event and to 




belief in the power of education, 

and kindness and generosity 



to all at American Friends 


Evelina and Franck Ruimy 

82 


G O L D 


Melina and Eric for their 

support of 


belief in the power of 

education, and kindness 

and generosity over 

many years. 


G O L D 

We want to congratulate 

DRS. MELINA 

and ERIC ESRAILIAN 

on this well-deserved recognition. 


to all American Friends 


Dr. Sharon & Mark Vidergauz 

84 


G O L D 


As very special friends of 


we congratulate you 

and thank you for your 

deep commitment to 

and support of 

the Bel Air Affaire 

and for all that you do 

in our community. 

With admiration and Go Bruins! 



86 


S I L V E R 


S I L V E R 




We are so pleased 

to join you in celebrating 

the many accomplishments 

of Hebrew University. 

Elyssa & Gil Elbaz 

88 


S I L V E R 


and best wishes to 

all at American Friends 


Cindy & Gary Frischling 


S I L V E R 








Ellen & Mark Genender 

90 


S I L V E R 



on this well-deserved honor! 

We are thrilled to celebrate 

you both on this special day. 

Ed & Shari Glazer 


S I L V E R 

A sincere thanks to 

all of our friends at 


for everything they do 

to make the institution great 

and a place for ideas, 

innovation and the pursuit 

of good for mankind. 

Sam Gruenbaum 

& Nooshi Akavan 

Service. Excellence. Respect. Value. 

92 


S I L V E R 

We congratulate 

our beloved friends 

and honorees 


for their inspired leadership 

in the service to 


the Armenian community 

and the hope of a better 

world for humankind. 

Myna & Uri Herscher 


S I L V E R 


and best wishes to all at 



Martha & Bruce Karsh 

94 


S I L V E R 


With endless gratitude for 

all that you do for UCLA 

and Hebrew University. 

Barbara Natterson-Horowitz 

& Zach Horowitz 


S I L V E R 


our honorees on 

being recognized for 

their continued support 


Ruth Flinkman-Marandy 

& Ben Marandy 

96 


S I L V E R 

The challenges facing Israel 

are more daunting than ever, 

and so educating 

the next generation of leaders 

is vital to Israel’s future. 

There is no place that 

does that better than 


That is why we are proud 

to support American Friends 


With our gratitude to all who help 

Hebrew University, 

Lea & Barry Porter 


S I L V E R 









and kindness 

and generosity 


Congratulations and best wishes! 

Marc & Michelle Rosenbach 

98 


S I L V E R 


and thanks to 

the ESRAILIANS, 

and to 

JOYCE, HELEN, and RENAE, 

our wonderful co-chairs. 

from, 

Dan & Marcy Schlessinger 


S I L V E R 


No one has personally and 

philanthropically done more 

than both of you to spearhead and 

support health and education efforts 

and programs for so many individuals 

and communities. It is our honor to 

count you friends and to honor you for 

always giving so generously to both the 

Armenian and Jewish communities, 

who hold so much in common 

historically and culturally, 

and to the world at large. 

With deep admiration and gratitude, 

Deb & Jim Schreier 

100 


B R O N Z E 


B R O N Z E 

Ares Management 

Congratulates 

AFHU on a great 

Bel Air Affaire 

102 


B R O N Z E 



on a truly well-deserved honor. 

Howard Banchik 


B R O N Z E 




Samuel and Helene 

Soref Foundation 

Irma & Ben Breslauer 

104 


B R O N Z E 

We are proud 

to support the work 

of Hebrew University!! 

Todah Rabah for all 

that you do to make 

the world a better place!! 

L’shalom, 

Sue & Barry Brucker 


B R O N Z E 

Our warmest 

congratulations to 


on a truly well-deserved honor. 

Jaye-Jo Portanova-Cooperman 

& Bruce Cooperman 

106 


B R O N Z E 

THE ERWIN RAUTENBERG 

FOUNDATION 

is honored to support 

the impressive students of 

the Hebrew University of Jerusalem 

and hope together Israel and 

its people will have a secure future. 

Tricia & Thomas Corby 


B R O N Z E 

We are proud 

to support 



and the brave soldiers 

of the IDF. 

Jackie Tavelman 

& Michael Cypers 

108 


B R O N Z E 

We are proud 

to support 


of the Hebrew University— 

Am Yisrael Chai! 

Jennifer & Richard Eidinger 


B R O N Z E 

Susan Lopez-Giss 

& Harvey Giss 

Are honored to support the 


We thank and congratulate 


For their support of 

Education- Acceptance and PEACE 

110 


B R O N Z E 



on this well deserved honor! 

A special thank you to 

Joyce Brandman, 

Renae Jacobs-Anson, 

Helen Jacobs-Lepor 

and the entire team of lay 

and professional leadership for 

all your hard work on behalf 

of the students of the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem. 

With gratitude 



B R O N Z E 

In this year of strife and tragedy, 

it is comforting to know 

that education is our 

greatest asset. 

We celebrate all 

of the honorees and 

the continued success of 


Steve Frankel & Dan Ricketts 

112 


B R O N Z E 

We are proud 

to support 



Stuart Goldstein 

& Anessa Karney 


B R O N Z E 

HitterFamily 

Foundation 

Proud to support 


of Hebrew University 



Special thanks to 

the Anson & Lepor Families 

for all you do. 

114 


B R O N Z E 



ESRAILIAN 



belief in the power of education 



Perla Karney 

& Dr. Robert Edelstein 


B R O N Z E 


and best wishes to all at 



Doreen & Leon Lewin 

116 


B R O N Z E 


We treasure and honor you. 

We congratulate you 

upon receiving the 

“Humanitarian Torch of Learning” 

This award highlights one 

of the many wonderful 

endeavors you undertake 

for humanity. 

Renee & Meyer Luskin 


B R O N Z E 

“Next year in Jerusalem..." 

is part of one of the most important 

prayers in the Jewish religion. 

When I recite this prayer, I always 

remember the wonderful and 

impactful time I spent at the 

Hebrew University of Jerusalem. 

Many thanks to the gracious 

participants in this current 

fundraising effort, for making 

the valuable Hebrew U experience 

available to many more students. 

Sincerely, 

Mark Manber 

118 


B R O N Z E 

We honor the vision of 


and its role 

in healing the world. 

The Merissa, Mindy, 

and Robert Mann 

Family Foundation 


B R O N Z E 

Warmest congratulations to 

our dear friends 


Your devotion to community and 

unwavering dedication to philanthropy 

and education is truly inspiring. 

We are proud to stand beside 

you in your mission to make a lasting 

impact on the world through the 

establishment of the California 

Institute for Immunology and 

Immunotherapy at UCLA, 

among so many other causes. 

With affection and admiration, 

Alya & Gary K. Michelson, M.D. 

120 


B R O N Z E 



of Hebrew University 

David & Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati 


B R O N Z E 

A heartfelt thank you to 

JOYCE BRANDMAN 

for her incredibly 

generous support to 

such a noble mission— 

we join you in celebration. 

Goldman Sachs 

122 


B R O N Z E 



on a well-deserved honor. 

Christina Snyder & Marc Seltzer 


B R O N Z E 

In honor of 

JOYCE BRANDMAN 

Annette & Leonard Shapiro 

124 


B R O N Z E 


and best wishes to 



Jonathan Victor 


126 


TICKETS AND CONTRIBUTIONS 




tonight's honorees 

and to American Friends 


for continued support 

of wonderful institution. 

Best wishes, 

Jonathan Anschell 

128 



CRAIG & KIMBERLY DARIAN 

and All of Your Friends at 

Occidental Entertainment 

Group Holdings 

Congratulate 


ESRAILIAN 

and Hebrew University on 

its 2024 Bel Air Affaire. 




Mazel tov… 

Thank you for being 

the remarkable people 

that you are! 

The Grouf Family 

130 



We celebrate 


ESRAILIAN 

for the work they do 

to support, educate, 

and inspire tomorrow’s leaders. 

Congratulations on 

this special honor. 

Caroline & Michael Hackman 



Huge thanks to 

HELEN and NORM LEPOR 

for their long-standing 

support and stewardship of 


It's never been more important! 

Jamie & Priscilla Halper 

132 



With Love, 

Carol A & Michael S Kurtz 



Dear MELINA and ERIC, 

Congratulations and Bravo! 

No one deserves the 

Humanitarian Torch 

of Learning Award 

more than you. 

It is a privilege to 

be your friend. 

Sherry Lansing 

134 



EVERYONE IS PROUD & DELIGHTED TO BE HONORING 

TWO EXEMPLARY PROFESSIONALS 

AND GENUINE CITIZENS OF THE WORLD 

DRS. MELINA & ERIC ESRAILIAN 

Thank you for all the good you do … 

professionally and personally to help so many. 

Your philanthropic efforts to educate students 

who will inherit this complex earth are deeply appreciated 

and will connue to reverberate into the future. 

Your healthcare and cung- edge research 

have betered the quality of life for thousands of paents. 

“ATCHK MTNEL” 

The Execuve chefs parcipang this evening have all donated their me 

to honor you this evening, we hope you enjoy the nod to your heritage. 

With much love and gratitude your friend, 

Barbara Lazaroff 






136 






Laurie & Todd Strassman 



Dear MELINA and ERIC, 

Congratulations on tonight’s 

much-deserved honor. 

You work tirelessly to bolster 

the expanse of research 

in academia and recognize 

human rights for all people. 

Hebrew University is an 

outstanding institution where 

I have long been proud to 

fund scholarships for deserving 

students of diverse backgrounds. 

I hope you all have 

a wonderful time tonight. 

Love, Barbra Streisand 

138 





for their outstanding support 


Eric’s partnership with my 

late husband, Dr. Gary Gitnick, 

over 20 years at UCLA's Division 

of Digestive Diseases reflects 

a shared passion for advancing 

knowledge and improving lives. 

Thank you for your 

enduring impact on 

education and beyond. 

Cherna Gitnick 



Mazal Tov 

MELINA AND ERIC ESRAILIAN 

on this hard-earned and deserving honor. 

Our UCLA and Hillel community are touched by the impact 

of your leadership, philanthropy and spirit of generosity. 

May you go from strength to strength, and may the 

American Friends of Hebrew University continue to thrive. 

140 



1150 South Olive Street, Floor 10 

Los Angeles, CA 90015 

310.843.3100 | western@afhu.org 

www.afhu.org | #BelAirAffaire

2024 BAA Tribute Journal

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