OH YES THEY CAN! WOMEN SHINE at UOFH Photo: Roy Hermoni Roy Photo

FALL 2019

UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE

OH YES THEY CAN! WOMEN SHINE AT UOFH Photo: Roy Hermoni Roy Photo:

WELCOMING THE MESSAGE FROM OUR INTRODUCING THE NEW 2 NEW ACADEMIC YEAR 4 BOG CHAIRMAN 6 DATA SCIENCE SCHOOL NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Our multiversity vision supports a collaborative and interdisciplinary research culture and is committed to the growth of new ﬁelds to tackle critical issues facing humanity in the 21st century.

MA BSc MA

in 20 19/20 in in Educational Data Legal Studies Psychology Sciences for Non-Lawyers BSc in Digital Humanities

MSc BA in in Marine Cognitive Technology Sciences

HEIGHTS MAGAZINE Produced by the University of Haifa Division of the Presidency and External Relations SAVE THE DATE Design: Castronawy Photography: Getty Images; Eli Gross; Roy Hermoni; Hagai Nativ; Gil Nechushtan; Nitzan Zohar; University of Haifa Archives; Ziv Medical Center Archives th

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President Robin ushers in the new academic year FEATURES 2 New Appointment: Dov Weissglas unanimously UofH Rolls Out 3 elected Chairman of the Executive Committee Data Science Interview: BOG Chairman Bradley Bloom shares his Program 4 vision for Haifa 6 7 New entrepreneurship initiatives at UofH Leveraging data science tools to bridge digital gaps 8 and improve our world Driven to Succeed: Female students The Ruderman MA Program for American Jewish Studies: Bridging the gap between the world’s shine at UofH 14 largest Jewish communities

Meet Award-Winning Faculty: Prof. (Emeritus) 10 16 Mechal Sobel and Prof. (Emeritus) Gad Gilbar 18 Alumnus Spotlight: Medicine as a currency for peace UofH proudly hosts VIP reception of the New York 20 premiere of “Forgotten Soldier”

magazine.haifa.ac.il TO NEW BEGINNINGS: UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA ‘IN’ AND ‘OF’ THE CITY

Welcome to a new academic year and an exciting new era for the University of Haifa. Thanks to the generosity of our friends and partners around the world, our vision is becoming a reality. We are indeed transforming into an urban university, both ‘in’ and ‘of’ the city.

Lorry I. Lokey City Campus located in Haifa’s bustling downtown district.

define tomorrow’s professional, social and economic worlds. President Ron Robin

We believe that this inspirational setting for re- The renovation of the facilities in the Lorry I. Lokey search, teaching and learning will better prepare City Campus in the city’s vibrant port area is the next generation to solve emerging global nearing completion. The campus buildings will challenges and help them integrate into the feature modern classrooms for our students and rapidly changing labor market. faculty and state-of-the-art laboratories to ensure high standards of research. The campus will attract As we usher in the new academic year, we are thousands of students who will be an integral part celebrating a number of milestones. The Faculty of the unique climate of downtown Haifa. With of Social Welfare and Health Sciences opened the its focus on data sciences and digital technologies, doors of its new home on the Mt. Carmel campus. the City Campus will utilize a problem-based The Faculty boasts world-class departments in research approach to promote synergies across Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Physical academic fields and enable collaboration with Therapy, Nursing and Community Mental Health. diverse partners in industry and the medical com- Recently, the American Council on Education for munity. As we gain expertise in this dynamic Public Health fully accredited the Faculty’s In- field, we are setting in motion the integration of ternational MA in Public Health Program, making new and specialized engineering areas that will it one of five such programs outside of the US to

2 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE receive this prestigious We are delighted to welcome Mr. Bradley stamp of approval. Bloom as our new Chairman of the Board of In addition, the construction Governors, and Adv. Dov Weissglas as the new of the Helmsley Health Dis- Chairman of the Executive Committee. Both covery Tower is progressing are seasoned experts in navigating change and on schedule. Once fully strategic planning at the national and inter- completed, the Tower will national levels. pool the talented resources from Haifa’s renowned in- We are especially thankful to our dedicated stitutes – University of friends and members of the Board of Governors Haifa, Rambam and the and Executive Committee – for their trust in our Technion – to improve vision and for their generous support. I look health care, and lead to ad- forward to the future with hope and a great deal vances in patient care in of enthusiasm. Israel and around the world. Sincerely, Faculty of Social Welfare and We are very proud that this Health Sciences Building. year, our world academic ranking is at an all- time high with significant growth in research publications, research grants from competitive funds, and doctoral students. Furthermore, our share of the Council of Higher Education re- Prof. Ron Robin search model continues to rise. In addition, President this academic year marks a continued increase in student enrollment.

NEW APPOINTMENTS Adv. Dov Weissglas unanimously elected Chairman of the Executive Committee

The University of Haifa’s Executive Committee President Ron Robin Adv. Dov Weissglas “”I am delighted voted unanimously to elect Adv. Dov Weissglas congratulated him on the to join the Uni- as the new Chairman of the Executive Committee. new appointment. “I am delighted and proud to versity of Haifa Mr. Weissglas is counted among Israel’s most have Dov Weissglas – a man of action and great family, take an prominent attorneys. He served as Director-Gen- vision involved in critical political decisions and eral of the Prime Minister’s Office under Ariel in mediating Israel’s diplomatic relations with active role in Sharon and in a number of senior positions in the its friends and neighbors – join the leadership of its leadership public sector. this university as we advance our multiversity and strengthen mission and drive growth in the northern region.” its position as “I am delighted to join the University of Haifa family, take an active role in its leadership and Over the course of his legal career, Weissglas an outstanding strengthen its position as an outstanding research represented numerous Israeli public figures in- research univer- university and institute of major social impor- cluding Yitzhak Rabin, Ehud Olmert, Yisrael sity and institute tance,” said Weissglas. Meir Lau, and Avigdor Lieberman. Weissglas of major social retired in 2015, and currently serves as a con- As Ariel Sharon’s Chief of Staff, Weissglas was the sultant on a wide range of issues pertaining to importance. point man in negotiations with the White House regulation and governance. He is married to Dr. - Dov Weissglas and one of the key architects of the Israeli disen- Louise Weissglas, PhD. They have three daugh- gagement from Gaza in 2005. He remained in this ters and ten grandchildren. role under Prime Minister Ehud Olmert until June 2006, when Weissglas was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bezeq.

HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 3 Meet Our New Chairman Mr. Bradley M. Bloom

INTERVIEW Mr. Bradley M. Bloom is the Boston-Haifa recently celebrated its 30th anni- co-founder and former Man- versary and over the years has supported a wide aging Director of Berkshire Partners LLC, a private range of social, educational and economic devel- equity firm. He is a highly respected leader in the opment projects. More importantly, these activ- Boston Jewish community, having served as ities created a number of personal and institu- Chairman of Combined Jewish Philanthropies tional relationships that have grown through the (CJP), and co-founder of the Boston-Haifa years and continue to evolve and flourish. Connection. In addition, Mr. Bloom is active in strategic and financial oversight committees at Although I had never been directly involved with I believe that Harvard University and is the former President University of Haifa, I was very aware of its repu- “” of the Board of Trustees of Milton Academy. tation. While much has been accomplished at the the University University within its short history, like any other of Haifa – What motivated you to join the University of Haifa’s institution in today’s changing world, it must together with Board of Governors as Chairman? continue to evolve and address the strategic chal- governmental, My connection with Israel began in the summer lenges of the future, both in Israel and more broadly. of 1970, when I came to Israel for the first time as industrial, a teenager. I worked as a volunteer on Kibbutz I was encouraged to consider this new role by a academic and Beit Oren, located on the Carmel Mountain range, number of friends in Haifa. I also felt that my community and explored the northern region extensively, business and philanthropic experience would be partners – can including Haifa. A few years later, I flew to Israel a good fit for some of the opportunities and chal- to volunteer during the Yom Kippur War. After lenges the University might face. Of course, on a play a role in staying in Israel for six months, I returned to personal level, the opportunity to work with old creating the complete my studies at Harvard and began my friends and new acquaintances in a place I enjoy next chapter of business career in an area that came to be known visiting so much made the role very appealing. prosperity for as the private equity industry. As incoming Chairman, what are some of the issues Haifa, the North When large numbers of Jews began leaving the and challenges you hope to address? and its diverse former Soviet Union in the later 1980’s, the Com- The entire education sector in the US is being population. bined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston disrupted with challenges mirroring those facing - Mr. Bradley M. Bloom, (CJP) participated in an international campaign academia in Europe, Asia and certainly Israel. It Chairman of the to help resettle the immigrants in Israel. Rather is increasingly difficult for liberal arts and social University of Haifa’s than just send financial support, CJP decided to science programs to prosper in the US without Board of Governors allocate a portion of the funds to develop a part- the presence of vibrant science and engineering nership of equals with like-minded friends from programs. Even Harvard has had to add stronger a similar city in Israel. The idea was to work to- science and technology elements over the past gether to stimulate economic growth in the region two decades, despite MIT being literally “down and thereby create employment opportunities the street” in Cambridge. Likewise, the addition for the new immigrants. We chose to partner with of more science and engineering to the Univer- Haifa – a decision that led to the establishment sity of Haifa’s core offerings has become an im- of the Boston-Haifa Connection in 1989, of which portant priority. I was fortunate to be one of four co-founders.

4 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE Although Massachusetts is similar to Israel in geo- graphic size and population, there are approxi- mately 80 colleges and universities in eastern Massachusetts alone. In the Mr. Bradley Bloom, State of Massachusetts, ed- Haifa Mayor Dr. Einat Kalisch Rotem, and Beyond the academic sphere, cultivating con- ucation is essentially an “export industry,” at- President Ron Robin. nections outside of Israel, building academic tracting students from the US and around the relationships and attracting board members and world, many of whom remain after graduating. donors, are central for the University. As a first step, I am pleased to report that before I was The resulting growth has created a virtual cycle elected to the Board, the University retained a that has led to the creation of new companies and well-regarded firm in New York to help us eval- industries, and produced the resources for our uate our long-term global fundraising strategy. universities to expand. Over the past four decades, Boston and the surrounding areas have experienced What inspires you most about the University’s mul- a wonderful rebirth, evolving from a city with a tiversity strategy? shrinking industrial economic base into a vibrant To me, the multiversity vision represents an metropolis. Today the city enjoys advanced in- opening to the world in terms of perspective; a dustries, and access to capital that has benefited reconsideration of traditional academic bound- all segments of its population. While not perfect, aries in light of changes in the world, particular- the long-term transformation is visible and con- ly in science and technology; and a framework tinues to build momentum. to support faculty and students in cross-disci- plinary activities. The University’s expansion into This reflection brings me back to my personal the port area is a significant step. The Lorry I. history with Haifa and northern Israel. Although Lokey City Campus is already home to many ex- Haifa and the North have certainly prospered citing new academic programs and more will be greatly in absolute terms since I first visited in added in the coming years to provide the best 1970, their achievements have not matched those opportunities for the future generations of stu- of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem or the South in relative dents and faculty. terms. I believe that the University of Haifa – together with governmental, industrial, academ- How can universities impact a city’s economy? ic and community partners – can play a role in As a native Bostonian, I directly experienced the creating the next chapter of prosperity for Haifa, decline of Boston’s industrial base. Subsequently, the North and their diverse population. I witnessed the urban renewal led by the engineering, technology, financial services and now Having witnessed Boston’s transformation over life sciences industries, stimulated in part by the decades, I look forward to participating in a Boston’s many colleges and universities. small way at the University of Haifa in support of Haifa’s urban renewal and future successes.

HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 5 Zeroing in on Data Science

UofH to the ‘Digital Era’. “Our strong data science BSC IN DATA SCIENCE orientation coupled with the close proximity to OPENING FALL 2019 the city’s budding high-tech industry will inspire 01The 2019\20 academic year is ushering in a new students and researchers to develop new methods era of research and education for UofH with the and tools that can lead to important breakthroughs opening of a BSc Program in Data Science and a in technology, science, and medicine, and in- Research Center in Data Science, the main pillars crease economic growth in northern Israel,” notes of the new Data Science School under establish- Rector Gustavo Mesch. ment at The Lorry I. Lokey City Campus. The establishment of the Research Center in Data “Data analysis is moving from a highly specialized Science aims to strengthen DS research across field to a daily business tool,” explains Prof. Mor multiple disciplines within the University and Peleg, Head of the new BSc Program in Data with industry and community partners. “Cur- Science and Research Center in Data Science. With rently, over 35 faculty members have joined the a background in health informatics, digital health Center. Their research ranges from digital health and clinical decision support systems, Prof. Peleg and bioinformatics to underwater microscopy emphasizes the importance of harnessing the and big data analytics, with applications in au- entire data science (DS) lifecycle. “The DS lifecy- tonomous cars, robots and drones,” adds Peleg. cle combines information systems, statistics and “We are also hosting cyber-related events, hack- computer science methods,” says Mor. “It starts athons and recently the EU’s Researchers’ Night, with the identification of a need. We then collect in order to raise visibility and share our knowledge and analyze data sets which are used to discover with the community.” hidden patterns and generate user-friendly solutions, like apps, that help solve the complex issues The University’s prestigious Edmond de Rothschild facing our data-driven society.” Foundation Institute for Interdisciplinary Appli- cations of Computer Sciences recently announced Precisely for this reason, the Data Science School its decision to relocate to The Lorry I. Lokey City will house under one roof the Departments of Campus. “We continue to grow in ways that serve Computer Science, Information Systems and Sta- the needs of our students and the local Haifa com- We are building tistics. The University of Haifa is the first in Israel munity,” notes President Ron Robin. “The Lorry “” to offer this integrative undergraduate data sci- I. Lokey City Campus represents the academic an ecosystem ences curriculum, which leverages broad theo- pillar of Haifa’s urban renewal project and a cor- to support the retical methods, tools and practical experience nerstone of its revitalized high-tech center.” emerging indus- from each of these fields. “Our goal is to prepare tries of cyber- the next generation of students for technologi- cally advanced 21st century jobs. At the same time, security, data we are building an ecosystem to support the management, emerging industries of cybersecurity, data man- cloud comput- agement, cloud computing and artificial intelli- ing and artificial gence,” explains Peleg. intelligence. The University’s administration is investing in -Prof. Mor Peleg data science to accelerate the transformation of

Computer science students gather in the Dylan Tauber building at the Lorry I. Lokey City Campus.

6 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE Prof. Ofer Arazy, of the Department of Informa- CULTIVATING AN tion Systems, is head of ENTREPRENEURIAL the new Innovation and Entrepreneurship MINDSET AT Program. Prof. Arazy has held various positions in Israel’s private sector, hrough engaging discussions and hands-on to Israeli’s successful start-up ecosystem. “What including Operations projects, aspiring student entrepreneurs sets our program apart is our commitment to Manager for the software will gain valuable, real-world experiences multidisciplinary education. By working in mul- house Jacada. in product and service innovation. tidisciplinary teams, with different academic and T cultural backgrounds, students will be better Starting this semester, UofH is launching a new equipped to develop comprehensive solutions program that will teach students to think and act that address critical healthcare, social and envi- like entrepreneurs. The Haifa Innovation Labs ronmental challenges,” explains Professor Ofer (HIL) Program will combine academic coursework Arazy, head of HIL. and hands-on practical experiences with exposure

HAIFA INNOVATION LABS Innovating Solutions for Societal Challenges Start-up Haifa Teaching Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The new program is designed to tap into the Uni- From concept to launch versity’s centers of excellence in the humanities, The Program is currently open to undergraduate natural sciences, social sciences and our new students with an entrepreneurial spirit. The cur- academic emphasis on data sciences. “The prob- riculum includes courses and workshops on in- lems facing humanity today – environmental novation and entrepreneurship led by experienced sustainability, climate change, poverty, food and industry professionals. Students will hone their water, disease and human suffering – are best creative thinking and learn to take their ideas solved using a multidisciplinary approach,” notes from concept to launch. In the next phase, a select Rector Gustavo Mesch. number of third-year undergraduate students with “high potential” projects will participate in According to Professor Ofer Arazy, “The entre- the incubator stage, working directly with expe- preneurial program will bring theory in practice rienced professionals and industry experts to test by learning and doing. We anticipate that each and implement their product or service. cohort will produce up to ten projects, with a uniquely Haifa flavor, that make a difference in We are currently seeking support for various HIL society. A further goal of the program is to prepare activities, including scholarships and prizes for students for lifelong learning and career manage- innovation competitions. For more information, ment in the 21st century.” please contact the Office of the President.

The Program’s Steering Committee will include key faculty members from data sciences, health sciences and management.

HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 7 life n the network

UofH researchers are using advanced data science tools to better understand and predict user behavior on social media.

Photo: Prof. Yoram Kalman

s more of our time is spent online and prevent criminal activities. Other forms of data – learning, working and commu- analytics are enabling us to learn more about the nicating –important parts of our activities and preferences of people from specific lives are being lived on the We like to think communities, such as the ultra-Orthodox and “Anetwork,” notes Prof. Sheizaf Rafaeli, a leading “” Bedouins, who are just beginning to use the Inter- of ourselves as international scholar of computer-mediated com- net. We are exploring how this new openness will munication. These online transactions leave digital archaeologists impact their social structures, which networks ‘breadcrumbs’, providing a treasure-trove of in- of the future – they use for information on health and social issues, formation about individual and group behavior studying human and obstacles they face along the way.” that was barely conceivable just two decades ago. activities through “Data science tools are helping us analyze digital Rafaeli founded the Center for Internet Research breadcrumbs to better understand and predict the recovery and at the University of Haifa in 1999. The Center has human behavior on social media,” explains Rafaeli. analysis of the grown into a vibrant hub of multidisciplinary “We are applying and improving ‘sentiment ‘digital artifacts’ research, pooling scholars from the departments analysis’, a new type of text analytics, to help us of computer science, history, communications, that we leave detect and assess emotions, attitudes and inten- business, education, law, psychology and sociol- tions. This approach could lead to a breakthrough behind. ogy. Together they study the social interactions in the automated detection of online hate speech, -Prof. Sheizaf Rafaeli and the technologies driving this communication.

8 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE Current research efforts at the Center are focused ities of learning and teaching – how do on measuring ‘digital gaps’ in Israeli society. we know if a student is participating Digital gaps describe inequalities in access to and or even attending courses? How does usage of information and communication tech- virtual learning, as opposed to class- nology. Their research found significant gaps room settings, affect the learning ex- Prof. Sheizaf Rafaeli (PhD, between female and male users, between Israel’s perience?” Rafaeli and his team are Stanford University) is the Jewish and Arab, Orthodox and secular, urban and currently developing software that Founding Director of the Center for peripheral, and wealthy and poor populations. The addresses questions related to learning Internet Research and former researchers also found that young, low-income in networked environments. “The Head of the Graduate School of males with limited education are the most ardent future of learning – how the Internet Management (2005-2012). He is users of gambling sites and that older low-income is impacting memory and knowledge also the founding editor of the men and women with limited education use the retention – is what’s keeping me up Journal of Computer Mediated resource of the internet least. most nights,” shares Rafaeli. “And al- Communication, a member of life though there are many who warn that the Wikimedia Foundation Board The Center is also studying theoretic and ethical technological change can be threaten- of Governors, a member of the issues emerging from increased growth and ex- ing, I believe that it can create tremen- academic management of the pansion of virtual communities, like Massive Open dous opportunities.” Learning In a Networked Society n the network Online Courses (MOOCs), free courses with thou- Israeli Center of Research sands of participants. “The MOOCs phenomenon Excellence, and a Senior Research raises questions about the roles and responsibil- Associate at the Samuel Neaman Institute for Policy Research. His work, articles and books have been cited over 10,000 times in scientific literature, and hundreds of his columns are published in popular Israeli news sites.

For more information about supporting research activities at the Center for Internet Research, please contact the Office of the President.

HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 9 DRIVEN TO SUCCEED

Female Students Shine @ UofH >> MEET OUR INSPIRING STUDENTS

“I am doing what I love best, New Beginnings studying molecular biology in an exciting lab setting.”

Kristina Tarsis Kristina joined the Gene Regulation in Develop- MSc, Leon H. Charney ment and Evolution Laboratory in the Leon H. School of Marine Sciences Charney School of Marine Sciences, headed by Dr. Smadar Ben Tabou de Leon. “A recent break- Kristina first came to Israel on the through at the lab revealed similarities between Birthright trip when she was 18. the formation of blood vessels in humans and the Born in Kiev, she moved to London building of skeletons in sea urchins. This discov- to live with her grandmother as a ery inspired the study of other genes involved in teen, and later earned a BSc degree sea urchin skeletogenesis, such as the PITX gene. in Biomedical Sciences from the Defects in human PITX are associated with various Anglia Ruskin University in Cam- birth defects and cancer progression. Understand- bridge. “I met my future husband on ing PITX’s role in a simpler model system could Birthright. He decided to stay in Israel and lead to innovative cancer treatments.” volunteer in the IDF. After graduating, I joined him in Haifa where we are both university stu- Kristina is pursuing an MSc thesis track at the dents. Sebastian is in the Department of Music Department of Marine Biology. She is a recipient and a member of the Arab-Jewish Orchestra, and of a University merit scholarship. I am doing what I love best, studying molecular biology in an exciting lab setting.”

Source: Office of the Rector Women who 48% of STEM students 65% of the student body Data from 2014 - 18

STEM @ UofH are women are women, in all degree *STEM fields include natural sciences, categories (bachelor’s, mathematics, computer science, information systems and marine sciences. master’s and doctoral degrees) 10 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE The Magic of Dialogue “I embrace new challenges as opportunities for growth.” Haneen Ganam MA, Department of English her junior year, she joined Language & Literature the Haifa Model UN Society (Haifa MUN) Program, where she received the Outstanding Haneen Ganam has an enviable gift for languag- Delegate Award during a MUN event es. At a young age, she showed a proficiency for in Munster, Germany. “Joining the English, her third language, and taught herself to program was one of the best things I ever did,” become fluent. Last year, Haneen graduated from shares Haneen. “I learned about the world and the Department of English Literature and Com- met people from different cultures. I discovered munications with honors and is already on her a love for debate and improvisation, and experi- way to an MA in English Language and Literature. enced first-hand the power of dialogue in medi- “Exploring the wonderful worlds of literary giants ating long-standing differences.” In recognition like James Joyce, T.S. Eliot, Virginia Woolf and Jane of her dedication and achievements, Haneen was Austen inspires me,” confides Haneen. appointed President of Haifa MUN.

As part of her volunteer work, Haneen tutors *The Haifa Model UN Program is supported by the German English online. “Thanks to technology, I can help Friends Association of the University of Haifa. pupils all over Israel from my home in Fureidis, a village south of Haifa.” Haneen is also extending her literary talents to the world of diplomacy. In

Strictly Business

Chen Rosenbaum “I hope to make a significant MBA, School of Management impact within my organization Meet Chen Rosenbaum. At 25, she is the youngest MBA student at UofH. Recipient of the 2019 and the rapidly-evolving world Rector’s Award for Undergraduate Students, she of business.” graduated at the top of her class with a degree in economics and business. In her sophomore year, she began to During her undergraduate studies, Chen was work in the field of finance. “My awarded an Academic Excellence Scholarship. older brother, an economist, She volunteered for the Student Union, running piqued my curiosity in pursuing a variety of social programs and student events. a career in finance,” admits “By continuing my schooling I hope to make a Chen, who moved to Haifa with significant impact within my organization and her family from Safed. “I really the rapidly-evolving world of business.” love working in a business setting and have my sights set on management. I plan to spe- cialize in human resources.” Understanding the Unique Strengths of ASD Learners

Ravit Avram age in sensitivity to optical illusions and in the M.Ed, Department of Special grouping of shapes or objects that are close to one Education another (grouping by proximity),” explains Ravit. “These important insights will help Special Ed Ravit Avram has been working with teachers expand their teaching and assessment children with autism spectrum disorder for ‘toolkit’, improve their abilities to meet their stu- over twenty years. She currently supervis- dents’ diverse learning needs, and assist their stu- es a team of Special Ed teachers in the in- dents to enter into the workforce as independent tegration process of students with ASD into adults.” Ravit’s graduate thesis, under the direction the regular education system. Two years ago, of Dr. Batsheba Hadad, was published in the sci- “I hope to make she decided to “give herself a gift” and enrolled entific journal Autism Research. She also received in a master’s program specializing in Autism and the Dean of Graduate Studies Prize for Outstanding a difference in developmental disabilities in children. “With three Thesis. the lives of ASD adolescents of my own, balancing my studies with work and family life was a challenge – but well Ravit has already been accepted to a PhD program learners.” worth the efforts,” she noted. What began as a gift in the Department and has a new thesis in mind. to herself has evolved into a long-lasting contri- “I feel very fortunate to have had an opportunity bution to our understanding of the unique strengths to make my dreams become a reality.” of ASD learners. “Our findings showed that con- trary to previously held assumptions about ASD learning styles, ASD learners exhibit similar per- ceptual processes as normative learners of the same

Combining Medical Research and Student Advocacy “I realized that medicine Dorin (Theodora) Asis is my calling.” MSc, Department of Human Biology

With a natural talent for dance and a degree in In addition to her rigorous broadcast journalism, Dorin Asis could have academic course load, pursued any number of career paths. “I have Dorin has taken on a always felt a strong pull towards helping people number of student advoca- and contributing to a healthier world. I realized cy roles at the University. As that medicine is my calling.” Dorin completed a first year student, she joined her BSc in Medical Sciences with honors at the the Student Association and University of Haifa, and is now a master’s student served as a student represen- in the accelerated track in biology and medical tative. She is currently a sciences. “One of the reasons I chose UofH was the member of the University possibility of studying with Prof. Sarit Larisch,” Senate, Board of Governors, confides Dorin. “Today, I work in her laboratory and Executive Committee. where we are investigating the molecular mecha- Dorin also co-heads the Com- nisms of programmed cell death in novel protein. mittee for Laboratory Science The work is exciting and the research shows real Scholarships. promise for targeted cancer therapy.”

12 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE Helping Those Who Lost Their Words

Tammar Truzmont PhD, Department of Communication munication Sciences and Disorders, uses MRI and Sciences and Disorders fMRI methods to measure brain changes in patients during word retrieval and restful states. It is a first of its kind to be conducted with Hebrew speakers. Tammar Truzmont is only 29 and already knows a “The exciting results from our pilot study are gen- thing or two about starting over. erating interest among language pathologists. I have had the privilege of presenting our findings in a Tammar graduated with honors from the Depart- number of national and international conferences,” ment of Communication Sciences and Disorders notes Tammar, who was recently honored with the and began working as a speech therapist in a geri- University’s prestigious Presidential Scholarship. atric facility. Soon thereafter, she was caught by surprise when her younger Tammar was raised in an ul- sister suffered a debilitating tra-Orthodox family in Jeru- stroke. Wanting to ensure salem with 15 siblings. As a that she received the best young adult, she chose to rehabilitative care, leave the religious commu- Tammar turned to the nity and received little world of research to find support from her family. She answers. was determined to get her degree in speech therapy, but She enrolled in the Uni- faced financial hardships and versity’s PhD degree huge gaps in her secular ed- program, and took part ucation. “The University of in a research study on Haifa helped me land on my feet the efficacy of rehabili- and pursue a career that I tative treatment in pa- love,” recalls Tammar. Today tients with post-stroke she is a volunteer advocate aphasia - an acquired for ‘Out for Change’, an or- language disorder fol- ganization offering emotion- lowing brain damage. al support, legal advice and The study, conducted assistance in bridging educa- under the direction of tional gaps to former Haredim. Prof. Tali Bitan from the “My goal is to pass on to others the Psychology Department knowledge and goodwill I was so and Dr. Michal Biran from fortunate to receive.” the Department of Com-

“I will always be grateful to the University of Haifa – I never could have gotten this far without financial assistance and the University’s support system.”

For more information UofH Scholarships is an investment in Israel’s Future about scholarship giving, Join us in fulfilling dreams and launching please contact the Office of the President. promising careers.

HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 13 RUDERMAN PROGRAM FOR AMERICAN JEWISH STUDIES IS BRIDGING GAPS BETWEEN ISRAEL AND AMERICAN JEWS

he Ruderman MA Program for American Jewish Studies was founded with a fervent mission to bridge the gap between Israeli and American Jewish communities and Tstrengthen ties between Israel and U.S. Jewry. “As we move into a new political era, it is more important than ever for Israelis and American Jews to try to better understand each other and treat each other with mutual respect,” notes Jay Ruderman, President of the Ruderman Family Foundation. “Despite the differences between American Jews and Israelis, the two communities are intimately connected as the two largest Jewish communities in the world, which mutually benefit each other.”

Several years ago, while reading about the Knesset Caucus for US-Israel Relations, an initiative of the Ruderman Foundation, Prof. Gur Alroey realized that Americans knew much more about Israel than Israelis knew about American Jewry. He envisioned an academic program that could be an agent for change in improving understanding between the world’s largest Jewish communities. “I believe that the Israel-American Jewish relationship is paramount to the building of a strong and pros- perous Israel and this link is largely dependent on a well-informed Israeli public,” asserts Prof. Gur Alroey, currently Dean of the Faculty of Humanities The “Star, Stripes and Magen David” and Founder and Director of the Ruderman Program exhibit takes a fascinating look into the for American Jewish Studies.

lesser-known pre-State history of Israel The Ruderman Program is now enrolling its and the vital contribution of US Jewry to seventh cohort and is one of the fastest growing master’s programs at the university. It attracts the early Jewish settlement. The exhibit, civic leaders, professionals from philanthrop- made possible by the generosity of the ic and non-profit organizations, journalists Ruderman Foundation, opened at the and highly qualified graduate students from all over Israel. The Program’s notable alumni Knesset Building in May 2016 with a host include Rabbi Doron Peretz, Head of the of dignitaries in attendance, including Mizrachi World Movement, Vered Israely, Director of the Boston-Haifa Partnership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, MK Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) in Israel, Yuli-Yoel Edelstein, and former US and Savion Medaleion, Chief of Staff for the Ambassador Daniel Shapiro. The exhibit World Chairman of Keren Hayesod. was also on display at the University campus gallery.

14 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE The MA Program, the only such The Ruderman Foundation is a family run phil- program in Israel, combines multidisci- anthropic organization. With operations in Boston plinary studies on American Jewish history, and Israel, the foundation focuses on two main Jewish life, American Jewish identity and Ameri- areas: disabilities advocacy and bridging the Is- American Jews can attitudes towards Israel with an educational rael-Diaspora gap with a focus on American and “” tour to New York. During the 10-day trip to the Israeli Jews. are the most US, what Prof. Alroey affectionately calls a “reverse important players Birthright” trip, Israeli participants have oppor- “Part of my philosophy in philanthropy is always in the battle for tunities to meet and talk openly with American looking for a void,” explains Jay Ruderman. Israel’s security. Jewish students and Jewish community leaders. “I believe in the road ‘less traveled by’.” Shira Alroey explains that the study tour is having a Ruderman, Executive Director of the Foundation, Yet their support demonstrable impact on the program participants adds, “We recognize today that our Jewish com- for (Israel) isn’t and elevating Israeli public discourse. munities and the State of Israel are in a complex as assured as it situation and it calls for action, and I think we need was in the past… “Armed with first-hand experiences and in-depth brave action.” The charitable efforts led by the knowledge about American Jewish history, our Rudermans have gained international recognition, This is one of the students – tomorrow’s leaders and decision with The Jerusalem Post tapping Jay Ruderman greatest threats makers – are better equipped to strengthen and among its 50 most influential Jews in 2016. The facing Israel’s promote long-lasting bonds between the two couple received honorary doctorates from the Uni- security. communities,” says Alroey. versity of Haifa in 2015 for their visionary and philanthropic leadership and were recently awarded - Jay Ruderman, In addition, the Ruderman Program promotes the Jacob Rader Marcus Award from the American President of the academic research on American Jewry, creating Jewish Archives organization. Ruderman Family Foundation a knowledge base for decision makers, opinion leaders, policy makers, professionals and for all Future plans for the Ruderman Program for Jewish those who take part in the public discourse in American Studies include opening a PhD Program Israel. The program partners with Prof. Pamela and building a virtual library. A postdoctoral fel- Nadell, Director of the Jewish Studies Program at lowship is also being sponsored. American University (AU) in Washington DC, on a variety of academic projects including the “What started out as an academic partnership has 10-day study tour to the US. bloomed into a unique relationship between philanthropy and academia,” adds Alroey.

Shira and Jay Ruderman (center) with the first cohort of Ruderman scholars in 2012. HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 15 Reframing the Past: African American Influence on American Society

Books by Prof. Mechal Sobel on display in The Younes and Soraya Nazarian Library.

UofH Researcher Honored Prof. Sobel, who was with EMET Prize born in the US, has lived in Israel for most of her rof. Emeritus Mechal the post-slavery era. “In each of adult life. She conducted Sobel received the 2019 her five major works, Prof. her entire academic EMET Prize in Human- Sobel blends research career at the University ities for her pioneering methods from different fields of Haifa, where she Presearch and bold interdisciplin- of study with historical ma- founded and headed The ary approach to the evolution of terials to address the social Center for the Study of American society. construction of race relations the United States in the US,” adds Dr. Halevi. (2001-2006) as well as “Mechal Sobel is a rare academic “Her novel and powerful theo- the Graduate Program in scholar and one of the leading research- ries challenge the historical as- American Studies. In ers of American history in Israel and world- sumption that only white traditions 2011, she became the first wide,” noted Dr. Sharon Halevi, Chair of the influenced black culture. In Trabelin’ On, for honorary foreign Department of Multidisciplinary Studies. “Her example, she demonstrates how the emergence member of the American groundbreaking approach to the study of Afri- of the Afro-Baptist faith – under the tremendous Historical Association can-American culture, and its influence on early pressures and hardships of slavery – is a fusion of (AHA). In addition to her American society is among the most insightful African beliefs in the spirit world, such as the research activities, she and influential in the field.” notion of ‘soul-travels’, with Christian under- was active in promoting standings of Jesus and individual salvation. In one international confer- Using a variety of disciplines to support her the- of her other major works, The World They Made ences bringing together ories, including anthropology, sociology, history Together, she persuasively establishes how thor- scholars from around the of religion and psychoanalysis, Sobel traces the oughly whites and blacks intermixed within the world. Over the years, cultural traits brought over by black slaves from system of slavery and how the resulting cultural she has mentored and their African homelands and its impact on white interaction gave rise to what is known as ‘South- inspired generations of American values, religion and political views in ern culture’ in the United States.” historians.

16 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE Rewriting the economic history of the modern Middle East

rof. Emeritus Gad Gilbar, tion and supported the publication Author of several books among Israel’s foremost of local journals in several urban and dozens of articles, economic historians, centers. Prof. Gilbar is a widely received an honorary recognized economic Paward (Yakir) from the Middle Today, more than ever before, historian of the Middle East and Islamic Studies Asso- policy-makers understand that East. His research ciation of Israel (MEISAI) for his economic history is integral to covers the economic and innovative research into eco- shaping global economic gover- the demographic history nomic and social forces that were nance, and they are turning to ac- of Iran, Egypt and reshaping Muslim societies at the turn ademics for historical perspectives. Palestine during the 19th of the 19th century. “The underlying connections between and 20th centuries. economic developments and political change can During his distin- “The period when Muslim big merchant-entre- provide us with deeper insights into the evolution guished career at the preneurs flourished, between the mid-19th and of events,” explains Prof. Gilbar whose scholar- University of Haifa – early 20th centuries, was characterized by unprec- ly works integrate interdisciplinary concepts and spanning over four edented economic, social and political changes methods from the social sciences and humanities. decades – he served as in the Middle East,” notes Prof. Gilbar. “As these “Our challenge as historians is to uncover the head of the Department big merchants – known as tujjār – emerged as a hidden undertones and the interrelationships of Middle Eastern and new social group, they contributed significantly between socio-economic and political events.” Islamic Studies, to economic growth and modernization in the chairperson of the regions where they operated, namely Iran, the In announcing the award, the Judges Committee executive board of the Persian Gulf, the Fertile Crescent and northern highlighted the aspects of Prof. Gilbar’s works that Ezri Center for Iran and Anatolia. They played an important role in con- changed perceptions about the economic devel- Persian Gulf Studies, necting Middle Eastern markets to the global opment of Muslim societies in the late 19th century. Rector of the University, economy, supported reform movements in Iran “His distinct research approach examining con- and was a member of and the Ottoman Arab provinces, and had a hand nections between economic processes and their Israel’s Council of in the establishment of the first parliament political outcome is an important distinguishing Higher Education. (majles) in Iran and the adoption of the first Iranian factor of his scholarship. Additional fields covered Constitution of 1906.” Prof. Gilbar also empha- through his extensive studies shed light on the sizes that the tujjār were influential in encourag- connection between demographic changes and ing both modern and traditional forms of educa- economic, social and political conditions.”

Food for the bastis (strikers) in Tehran in 1906 financed by Muslim big merchants. This major grassroots protest brought about the establishment of the first Iranian majles (parliament). HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 17 Saving Lives and Winning Hearts ALUMNUS SPOTLIGHT Colonel (Res.) Dr. Salman Zarka, MD, MPH and MA

Dr. Salman Zarka, Director of Ziv Medical Center in Safed, speaks with a Syrian girl receiving medical treatment in Israel.

ccording to Dr. Salman Zarka, “Med- icine could be a key to peace in the region.” Dr. Salman Zarka, an interna- tionally renowned expert in public and Amilitary medicine, has the proven track record and initiative to turn this vision into reality.

When refugees from the Syrian Civil War began arriving on Israel’s northern border seeking medical assistance, Dr. Zarka founded and commanded a field hospital for the treatment of wounded victims. The activities of the secret hospital in the Golan IDF field hospital in Heights, later dubbed ‘Operation Good Neighbor’, Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He holds an MA the Golan Heights. treated hundreds of people, young and old, civil- degree in political science and national security ian and military, with serious war injuries. In studies from UofH. recognition of his outstanding efforts and commitment to the basic values of human dignity and What are some of the challenges you faced as the the sanctity of life, Dr. Zarka was honored as one commander of the field hospital on the Syrian border? of the 14 torchbearers at Israel’s 71st Independence Medical humanitarian aid is typically administered Day ceremony in Jerusalem. on the territory of the disaster-stricken country. In our case, we were providing Syrian nationals Medicine could Following a distinguished 25-year career as an with humanitarian aid in Israel, which raised “” IDF medical officer, Dr. Zarka accepted a position complex ethical dilemmas regarding standards be a key to peace as the Director of Ziv Medical Center* in Safed. In for patient care and the treatment of wounded in the region. addition, he serves as a senior lecturer at the enemy soldiers. The core humanitarian standard - Colonel (Res.) School of Public Health at the University of Haifa of aid seeks to save lives, using limited resources. Dr. Salman Zarka, MD, and the Department of Military Medicine at For example, at a field hospital, cases of severe MPH and MA

*Ziv Medical Center is a public hospital providing medical care to residents of northern Israel, IDF soldiers and UN peacekeepers serving in the region.

18 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE limb injury could end with amputation. In Israel, studied the military however, where the medical system is committed service over a 15-year to providing the highest quality of care and max- period of young Druze imizing quality of life, our standard practice uses men from remote vil- all available resources and makes every effort to lages in the Galilee save the wounded limb. We decided to treat Syrian with their peers from casualties with the same level of care afforded to the Carmel mountain Israelis. region (in closer prox-

Photo: Mark Neyman Photo: imity to large urban Based on these actual cases, I have published Israeli President Reuven centers). We found Rivlin (center) receives several papers and have co-authored a book a copy of Complicated that volunteering levels for combat units were devoted to the ethics of humanitarian aid and War Trauma and Care highest among Druze soldiers from villages in the field hospital administration during mass casu- of the Wounded, from Galilee, compared to soldiers from the Carmel Dr. Salman Zarka and alty events. My experiences at the field hospital co-author Prof. Alexander region. In fact, we found that across Israel, young have strengthened my mission as a physician to Lerner (left), Director men from community settlements and kibbutzim alleviate suffering, protect life and health, and of the Orthopedic volunteer in higher numbers for combat units in Department at Ziv restore respect for fundamental human rights. Medical Center. comparison with those from major cities. A related study found overall higher conscription levels of Tell us about the course you teach Druze men to combat units in comparison with at the School of Public Health. their Jewish peers. I have been teaching at the University since 2006. I teach an elective course in the Master of Public What was it like to be a torchbearer Health (MPH) Program on health issues of vulner- at the Independence Day ceremony? able populations, including ethnic minorities (Arabs) I come from a large Druze family, and it was a great and army populations, which shed light on disease honor for me to light the torch on behalf of my prevention, promotion of patient care, intelligent community. This torch is also a tribute to all ci- decision-making and high-quality administration. vilian and military medical teams delivering ad- We also explore environmental factors such as over- vanced quality patient care to all Israelis. In hon- exposure to dangerous materials and military vac- oring me, the State also honored the nurses and cinations, alongside relevant cultural and socioeco- “”We were pro- doctors who displayed high ethical standards and nomic factors that may impact each case. viding Syrian provided life-saving medical treatment to Syrians in the military hospital on the border and in the nationals with The best part of teaching is meeting motivated medical centers in the north. students, and witnessing those ‘eureka’ moments humanitarian aid igniting a sparkle in their eyes. I especially enjoy in Israel, which What vision or motto has guided you being part of a distinguished faculty, among them raised complex throughout your career? Prof. Shai Linn and Prof. Manfred Green, who I believe in the power of positive thinking and ethical dilem- have been my guiding lights in this field. continual self-improvement. Throughout my mas regarding career, I have been very motivated by the belief What inspired you to complete a thesis track MA standards for that with hard work positive change is possible. I in political science and national security at the patient care and guess this motto runs in the family. My wife Rawda, University of Haifa? who is also a University of Haifa alum, is a social the treatment of Policy and governance has a direct impact on worker and couples therapist who works with public health and medical treatment, so it is of wounded enemy bereaved families of IDF soldiers. great interest for me. I chose to write my thesis soldiers. paper on issues that are close to my heart. With - Colonel (Res.) Working with incredibly devoted medical teams the supervision of Prof. Gabriel Ben Dor, head of Dr. Salman Zarka, MD, at Ziv Medical Center, my goal is to raise the level the National Security Studies Program, my thesis MPH and MA of healthcare for residents of the Galilee.

HEIGHTS / FALL 2019 / 19 SHARING HER

IMPORTANT Mr. Sally Noach and uncover the true story of his indomitable spirit and heroic efforts. The film was LEGACY: the Audience Choice Award of the 2018 UK Jewish Film Festival and official selection of the 2019 Toronto and Washington Jewish Film Festivals.

“There were always rumors that my father had been a spy and was interrogated by MI5; others suggested he once ran the black market in Lyon,” confides Lady Hatter. “And as for my father’s pen- chant for jokes and storytelling, he never spoke about the war, in which his parents and many other family members were killed at Auschwitz. Now, almost 40 years after his death I set out with my brother Jacques to put the record straight – to find out how many people he had saved, where they ended up, and how he was able to pull it off.”

Sally Noach was born in the Dutch city of Zutphen. In 1940, he escaped to Lyon, France, under the Vichy regime. A fluent French speaker, he volunteered to work as an interpreter for the Dutch Consul while secretly working undercover with the Re- sistance forging fake identity papers for imprisoned Jewish refu- A fascinating feature documentary gees. Armed with forged papers, and Lady Irene film pays tribute to the life of Hatter a daring ‘chutzpah’, he entered prisons and holding centers where they were Salomon (“Sally”) Noach, an detained before deportation to the death unsung Holocaust hero. camps and secured their release. Thanks to his efforts, more than 600 souls were saved.

orgotten Soldier tells the extraordi- The film premiered in the UK, Canada and the US, nary story of Salomon (“Sally”) Noach, with University of Haifa board members, sup- a Dutch Jew who risked his life in Vichy, porters and alumni in attendance. The American France to save hundreds from deporta- Society of the University of Haifa held a VIP Re- Ftion to Auschwitz. ception in advance of the film’s New York premiere, attended by Lady Hatter, Jacques Noach, and “We are extremely proud to take part in this im- survivor Herman Veder, who was featured in the portant tribute and pay honor to Lady Irene documentary. Hatter, longstanding friend of the University and Co-Chair of University of Haifa UK,” noted Pres- “My goal was to find out more about my father’s ident Robin, who attended the recent New York story but in the process I found other people’s premiere of the film. In Forgotten Soldier, Lady stories too,” summarizes Lady Hatter. “I hope to Hatter and her brother Jacques Noach set out on make the film available as a teaching resource for a journey to document the life of their late father, Holocaust studies in Israel and around the world.”

20 / UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA MAGAZINE WOMEN IN SCIENCE Help launch promising careers “At Haifa I am doing what I love best, studying by supporting molecular biology in an exciting lab setting.” scholarships for - Kristina Tarsis MSc, Leon H. Charney women in science School of Marine Sciences at the UofH Read her story on p10

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eitar Ben-Abu is a third-year law student company and one of its clients. Finding a and already has a knack for settling creative solution was tough, but I discovered M disputes. As part of her legal practicum, that I loved the challenge.” is year, Meitar is Meitar joined the Charney Clinic for taking on a number of new positions: research Conﬂict Resolution. e Clinic provides free legal assistant and TA, junior editor for the Faculty aid to vulnerable and underserved populations, Journal Law and Governance, and an instructor for with an emphasis on human rights cases and Access for All, a program for adult learners from social justice issues. “Working on a real legal case disadvantaged backgrounds. “After graduation, and heading the mediation team was a formative I plan to pursue an LLM.” experience," recalls Meitar Ben-Abu. "I helped settle a case between a large construction Meitar is an ISEF Foundation scholarship recipient.

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