June 2017

Shalom Friends,

This is always one of my favorite newsletters – an overview of the annual meetings of the Board of Trustees – a time when the university showcases its many achievements. In this special BOT edition, you will also get a glimpse of notable events, including the Honorary Doctorate Convocation which gave much deserved recognition to nine outstanding individuals, a Gala Dinner honoring prominent philanthropists and alumni, the Azrieli Medical School celebration and the Model UN simulation.

You will also read of the election of two new Vice Chairpersons of the Board – Mrs. Jane Stern Lebell and Romie Tager QC – as well as the election of Prof. Arie Zaban as President of Bar-Ilan as of October 1, 2017. I want to take this opportunity to thank the Board for their special tribute to me as I complete my tenure as president and for the unique gift – the “Jerusalem Cube.” What could be more fitting for a seasoned mathematician as Israel celebrates the 50th anniversary of Jerusalem’s unification?

While there are no pictures (for obvious reasons), the pre-BOT Shabbaton at the Dan Accadia Hotel in Herzliya was a most enriching and enjoyable experience. The illuminating panel discussions with Rabbi Dr. Benny Lau of Jerusalem’s Ramban Synagogue; Rabbanit Dr. Pnina Neuwirth, an expert on tax and commercial law in Israel, and a noted lecturer in both the Judaic and legal fields; and Midrasha Director Dr. Tova Ganzel, offered fresh insights and food for thought.

A hearty yashar koach to all of you who actively contributed to the success of the 2017 Board of Trustees meetings and to all who came from near and far to take part.