Prof. Rivka Carmi Becomes Honorary Commander of the British Empire

שולם P.P 5932 באר-שבע SUMMER 2015

NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV אוניברסיטת בן-גוריון בנגב

The Clara & David Nightingale Prof. Rivka Carmi Becomes Scholarship Fund Launched Honorary Commander of the British Empire

Mapping the Future: The 45th Board of Governors Meeting

A Degree of Success

Four Questions: Winemaker Meital Damri

Prof. Rivka Carmi receives her CBE title from British Ambassador Matthew Gould

British Ambassador to Israel H.E. Matthew is my enormous pleasure to award you with Visit our Website Gould bestowed upon President Rivka this medal,” Ambassador Gould said. Carmi the title of Honorary Commander of www.bgu.ac.il the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the Carmi also received a scroll personally signed name of Queen Elizabeth II on June 9, 2015. by Queen Elizabeth II. “I am truly honored to Watch us on YouTube accept this award,” she said. “I accept this www.youtube.com/BenGurionUniversity “Rivka is an outstanding leader whom I hold not for myself, but for Ben-Gurion University in high esteem. She is also an outstanding and for Israel, both of which I am proud and Join us on Facebook and wonderful friend and partner in the pleased to serve. www.facebook.com/BenGurionUniversity mission to build scientific links between the UK and Israel. She has invested huge “The brainchild of Matthew (Gould), the Follow us on Twitter amounts of time to make it happen, and I UK-Israel Life Sciences Council brought www.twitter.com/BenGurionU (@BenGurionU) could not have hoped for a better partner. It together the scientific powers of our

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Max Steinberg Memorial Prof. Rivka Carmi Scholarship Endowment Fund The Clara & David Nightingale Scholarship Receives CBE (cont. from page 1) Established Fund Launched

two countries in order to increase Naomi Fromstein and her husband Prof. her Aunt Clara would be very happy to what was happening at BGU. “We should be collaboration and to promote peace Efrim Boritz of Toronto, Canada were know that BGU scholarships are tied to thanking you, and not the opposite,” he said. through science, and it is for my small on hand for the launch of the Clara and community volunteerism and that these part in this project that I – an Israeli – David Nightingale Scholarship Fund, funds would, therefore, not only help After a short ceremony, they continued to today become a Commander of the designated for undergraduate scholarships the student, but also the Beer-Sheva the unveiling of the inscription “In memory British Empire!” and graduate fellowships at Heksherim: The community. “Both my aunt and uncle had of Clara and David Nightingale” on the Research Institute for Jewish and Israeli strong feelings about Israel and education Founders and Arava Walls on the Marcus Carmi thanked her Council Co-Chair for Literature and Culture and The Ben-Gurion and I know that they would be happy with Family Campus. “Every student who receives his tireless work. “I am fortunate to have Research Institute for the Study of Israel and what we see here today,” she said at a an undergraduate scholarship from BGU the most outstanding Israeli scientists Zionism. A total of 74 scholarships were ceremony marking the launch of the Fund. also volunteers in the community – helping in my group and so very fortunate to granted this year. others while they themselves benefit from the have as partner Prof. Raymond Dwek of Efrim noted that they had learned far more experience, earning what we call ‘an extra Oxford, who co-chairs for the UK and Using funds donated by the estate of Clara about higher education in Israel on this visit soul’,” explained Carmi. “Thank you for being his British group of equally distinguished and David Nightingale, Naomi noted that and that they were deeply impressed with our partners in promoting this extra spirit!” scientists.

“With Matthew in the driving seat, this project has far exceeded our How to Measure Success expectations and is testament to the amazing talent, creativity and innovation funds on what success really means: “It as well as sincere wish to collaborate can’t be measured by what you’ve achieved and work together, that abounds in for yourself – it depends on how much Stuart and Evelyn Steinberg (far left) Israel and the UK,” she added. you’ve contributed to your community.” Stuart and Evelyn (Evie) Steinberg of scholarship program that grants opportunity Turning to a matter of grave concern, California joined the BGU family for and promise to the soldiers who have put For Ariel and the entire Katz clan, BGU is a she asserted: “I cannot gloss over the Israeli Fallen Soldiers and Victims of their lives in harm’s way for the people of family affair: in addition to Ariel, his brother the current BDS campaign against Terrorism Remembrance Day Ceremony in Israel,” Stuart Steinberg said in February. Dan, son Idan and daughter-in-law Shani Israel and, like many of you, I am both Beer-Sheva in April. BGU has established, “We know that Max cared deeply for his are also BGU alumni, and his younger son disgusted and worried by the seemingly through its American Associates, the fellow soldiers and that he would be whole- Roiy is currently a student at BGU. Ariel’s increasing momentum it is gathering. Max Steinberg Memorial Scholarship heartedly supportive of a program that younger brother, Dr. Gideon Katz, is a faculty However, I believe absolutely that the Endowment Fund in partnership with Max’s allows soldiers to pursue their passions and member at the Ben-Gurion Institute for the amazing success of our joint Sciences parents, Stuart and Evelyn, and his siblings, create a great future.” Study of Israel and Zionism, and sister-in- Sitting left to right: Dr. Gideon Katz; Ruthie Mor; Vered Sarousi-Katz; Dan Katz; Yehudit Katz; Ariel Katz; Sofie Sudin Council is the best response. Paige and Jake. The fund commemorates law Vered Sarousi-Katz is the Director of the Max, who died in battle in Gaza during “With their decision to create the Max Ariel Katz, Israeli hi-tech leader and the and Yosef Katz, seemed the natural way to Department of Community Action. “At universities across Israel and the Operation Protective Edge last July. Steinberg Memorial Scholarship Endowment founder of the newly established Fanny commemorate people who put education UK, including BGU and Oxford, we Fund, the Steinberg family is memorializing and Yosef Katz Scholarship Fund, met and values first: “As Holocaust survivors, Addressing this year’s BGU scholarship will not be halted in our endeavors to The Steinberg endowment will provide Max in a way that will celebrate his life and wtih students at the annual scholarship my parents faced many hardships, but they winners, Ariel, himself a one-time use the great talent of our scientists to scholarships in perpetuity to BGU students his choices in perpetuity and will impact a ceremony for Israeli funds and told them always urged my brothers and I to achieve an scholarship recipient, said: “In life, you won’t conduct cutting-edge research and to with preference to lone soldiers, students widening circle of young people – an act that, “that you receive something special education and have good values – they said always remember everything you’ve done, bring new solutions to global issues – from the Golani unit where Max served and that is truly worthy of admiration,” said BGU when you give.” that was the only way to succeed in life.” but you’ll always remember how it made and to truly improve the life of people other combat reservists. President Prof. Rivka Carmi. “Losing a child you feel. Giving is a gift, and I hope that regardless of race, color or religion,” is every parent’s worst nightmare, but they For Zichron Yaakov residents Ariel and wife BGU alumnus and the president of a thriving one day you’ll all have the privilege of giving she declared. “We are delighted to know that Max’s have turned this personal tragedy into an Yehudit, deciding to create a scholarship biotech company, Ariel spoke at the annual back. I’m grateful for the opportunity to legacy will be connected to a university and opportunity to do a greater good.” fund in memory of Ariel’s parents, Fanny scholarship ceremony for Israeli scholarship close the circle. Believe me, it feels great!”

2 3 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board

Mapping the Future Guests from around the world were on hand to mark the 45th Board of Governors Meeting and celebrate the University’s accomplishments, while outlining its Vision 2020 plan for the next five years

state-of-the-art facilities for academic and Outgoing Head of the Student Union professional gatherings and expanding the Avi Benalal reflected on his experiences University’s limited housing options. at the University, saying that what he had enjoyed most was to be able “to broaden “One of the underlying principles of this my horizons, intellectually, socially and ambitious development is the continued culturally.” internationalization of the University. With the building of new housing for research Guest of Honor Prof. Ruth Arnon offered students, post-docs and young faculty numerous examples of Israeli inventions and to match that of any leading university in innovations to disprove the myth that Israeli the world, BGU will soon be well placed researchers and educators have remained to successfully compete for the most locked away in their ivory towers. talented and committed young scholars and researchers, who will form the vanguard of future achievement. From a Reporter’s Notebook Israel Channel 10 Arab Affairs “Our Vision 2020 sets out to realize a Correspondent Zvi Yehezkeli presented preferred future – a future that we walk into a fascinating lecture under the auspices our dreams and imaginations,” she said. of the Robert St. John Chair in Objective Middle East Reporting, titled Israel in the Beer-Sheva Mayor Ruvik Danilovich

Crossing the newly dedicated Jim and Liz Breslauer Bridge

“Get your children involved in BGU,” said Beer-Sheva Mayor Ruvik Danilovich building something greater than ourselves Chairman of the Board of Governors focused on the importance of building the to fulfill the Zionist enterprise,” he declared, Alex Goren as he opened the 45th Board North Campus, which will double the size of inspiringly. of Governors Meeting. Noting that one of the University. “Moving forward to plan the the initial donations that launched BGU North Campus requires a historic decision Appealing directly to the audience, he said, came from his parents, Avram and Stella on the part of the University, which will “The North Campus cannot be realized Goldstein-Goren, he encouraged everyone shape both the University and the Negev,” without the support of everyone here. The present to follow his parents’ example in he asserted. best way to predict the future is to create it.” involving their children in the University and supporting its vision. Danilovich called the North Campus “a University President Prof. Rivka Carmi catalyst for change – social, cultural, explained that the first buildings on “We are proud to have played and continue educational and technological change on a the North Campus will include student to play a crucial role,” he declared, adding national level. dormitories and an international conference that it is important to “work in your country center. This combination will enable BGU to expand the circles involved in BGU.” “Our mission is to take responsibility for to expand its global outreach, offering Prof. Ruth Arnon Rector Prof. Zvi HaCohen, Micaela Goren Monti and Alex Goren

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The event was moderated by Dr. Opher Donchin, Chair, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and a member of the Zlotowski Dr. Heinz-Horst Center for Neuroscience. Deichmann An Attitude of Gratitude At the ceremony welcoming new members Remembered of the Ben-Gurion Society and recognizing the University’s most loyal supporters, Jill Ben-Dor, Director of the Department Dr. Heinz-Horst Deichmann, of Donor and Associates Affairs, Vice-Chairman of BGU’s Board of acknowledged the generosity of spirit that is the engine behind BGU’s phenomenal Governors for two decades and one growth. “Whereas the Board is primarily of the University’s most magnanimous about BGU, we are here today to say thank you, to you our friends and supporters who supporters, was remembered make all of this possible.” during the Board with a movie in his honor, screened at the Opening “I am deeply inspired by your dedication and believe that we are truly partners, working Plenary Session, and a concert in his together, hand-in-hand, to build BGU, Prof. Adele Diamond presents the Annual Zlotowski Lecture memory performed by members of advance the Negev and strengthen the State of Israel,” said Prof. Carmi. the Chamber Music Course at BGU, Sponsored by AABGU members Brooke participants a chance to spend an informal conducted by Daniel Lachish. Without a doubt, the highlight of the Kroeger and Alex Goren, Maribeth and evening with students and an opportunity busy day was the very popular Student Steven Lerner, Aileen Whitman and to experience the rich campus life that is Evening, organized with the Student Union. Roy J. Zuckerberg, the event offered BGU’s trademark.

Age of ISIS: Somewhere between Gaza and importance of executive functions, such London. The event was moderated by as self-discipline, attention control and Prof. Amit Schejter, Chair of the creativity, for children’s success in life and Department of Communication Studies. encouraged parents to match expectations with children’s abilities. Through a series of humorous vignettes and specific examples drawn from his years “Stress impairs executive functions and can covering the region, Yehezkeli maintained cause anyone to look as if he or she has an that the major conflict in the Middle East EF impairment (like ADHD) when that’s not is not Israeli-Palestinian, but rather Sunni- the case,” she said, remarking that “You Shia. “It is a conflict that has raged for may have noticed that when stressed you over a thousand years,” he said. “Time is cannot think as clearly or exercise as good understood differently in the Middle East self-control.” and the long view should be taken when attempting to understand the real current of Noting that it has been proven that events,” he advised. boys do better under stress than girls, she suggested we match the task to The day before she was awarded an the situation and educate children in a honorary doctorate, Prof. Adele Diamond supportive atmosphere. “It’s important presented the Annual Zlotowski Lecture. that we communicate loud and clear our She offered insights from neuroscience to faith and expectation that each one of our help children thrive. She spoke about the young people will succeed,” she concluded. Zvi Yehezkeli Ezra and Yaffa Yerucham with Prof. Carmi Alain Kostenbaum with Prof. Carmi

6 7 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board

The Chairman’s Council, back row (l-r): Gary Fine, Canada; Lionel Halpérin, Switzerland; Gérard Worms, France; Lloyd Goldman, USA; Arnie Bengis, USA; front row (l-r): Adv. Asher Heled, Chairman of the Executive Committee; Prof. Rivka Carmi; Bertie Lubner, South Africa; Alex M. Goren, Chairman of the Board of Governors; Eric Charles, UK; Ellen Marcus, USA At the Annual Year in Review session

One of the highlights was a BGU trivia game vision for helping Beer-Sheva grow into that offered answers to key questions such an international capital of cyber security as, “If I am on floor 5½, what building am I and life sciences research and innovation. in?” (The Cukier, Goldstein-Goren Building) Introduced by Prof. Dan Blumberg, and “How many dogs are being trained as Vice-President and Dean for Research and seeing-eye dogs by BGU students?” (Over Development, the event included a visit 50). to the ATP to meet with BGU faculty and alumni working there. A Hub of Activity On Tuesday morning, Board members The inauguration of the Amos Oz Initiative learned about the exciting developments for Literature and Culture in Arad was at BGU at the annual Year in Review and launched with a special lecture in memory were treated to a unique look at one of of Stuart B. Young, in the presence of his the initiatives the University has devoted wife, Toni Young of Wilmington, Delaware, much time and effort in creating – the and family. Renowned Israeli author and Advanced Technologies Park. Representing Professor Emeritus Amos Oz was lauded the multi-national companies that have by members of the Department of Hebrew opened offices at the ATP,Shelly Gotman, Literature, including Prof. Nissim Calderon, Managing Director of Lockheed Martin Etgar Keret and Prof. Yigal Swartz, IS&GS Israel, and Maya Hofman-Levy, Director of the Heksherim Research Institute. General Manager of EMC’s R&D Center in Moderated by Dr. Haviva Ishay, Chair Beer-Sheva, explained their rationale and Lionel Halpérin with students from the Keren Moshe Leadership Training Program Abraham Ben David Ohayon (center) and Laurence Ohayon (right) with Elise Donat and graduate student Sarit Ouriel of the Department, the event outlined the

8 9 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board

importance of the Initiative that offers new expressed its appreciation throughout the Vice Chairman, Shlomo Yanai (full coverage opportunities to the residents of Arad and event. on page 16). the surrounding Negev region (full coverage on page 12). The day culminated with the conferment The very successful 45th Board of Governors ceremony of Honorary Doctoral Degrees Meeting culminated with a gala evening Renowned feminist thinker Prof. Carol upon seven deserving individuals: Prof. Jill at the new Carasso Science Park, which Gilligan reflected on empathy and gender Banfield, USA; Prof. Adele Diamond, featured a band and dancing into the night. during the Irene and Hyman Kreitman Canada; Prof. Carol Gilligan, USA; Annual Memorial Lecture. She posited Prof. Anne Glover, UK; Alexander M. that all human beings are born empathetic Goren, USA; Prof. Jacques Lewiner, We hope to see you and that what we should be focusing on France; and Lorry I. Lokey, USA. is not how to “teach” empathy, but how here next year at the people “lose” their empathy. On Wednesday, Board participants were treated to outstanding tours of BGU Negev- th Prof. Carol Gilligan delivers the Irene and Hyman 46 Board of Governors As small children we learn to divide the related research sites, led by researchers Kreitman Annual Memorial Lecture world by gender, she explained. “It takes a from the Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Meeting, to be held on nano-second to realize that this is absurd, Desert Research and the Ben-Gurion The third phase of the American yet it goes on,” she said. “We internalize Research Institute for the Study of Israel Associates Village was dedicated, in June 5–8, 2016. gender stereotypes that we know are inane and Zionism. From water to wine, Bedouin the presence of donors and international and yet we repeat them.” Moderated by culture and the Ben-Gurion Archives, guests students who have come to study at Sede Dr. Leeat Granek from the Department received a glimpse of the diverse types of Boqer. Former President of the American To view the movies, visit the Board of Public Health, the enthusiastic audience research being conducted at the Institutes. Associates and current Chairman of the website at www.bgu.ac.il/Board Dr. Sarab Abu-Rabia (center) with guests on a research tour focused on the Bedouin community and click on movies.

Board, Alex Goren, praised the initiative, noting that the Institutes had to turn away students because of the housing shortage, but would now be able to grow. “This is one more vision shared by those of us committed to the Negev,” he said.

Prof. Boris Zaltzman, Director of the Blaustein Institutes, thanked the American Associates for investing in a particularly warm and inviting living environment. “Our students come from around the world and this becomes their home,” he said. “Our mission is to make the desert bloom and make the world a better place. With your support, we are well on our way.”

A unique social incubator, the Rothschild Cube – Center for Effective Social Action, was inaugurated later that afternoon by the University, together with the Rothschild Dedicating the American Associates Village (l-r): Prof. Boris Zaltzman; Prof. Rivka Carmi; Coby and Riki Dayan; Lloyd Goldman; Alex Goren; Carol and Harry Saal Caesarea Foundation, in the presence of its Ellen Marcus and Hilary and Bertie Lubner with Prof. Rivka Carmi at the gala evening

10 11 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board Inauguration of the Amos Oz Initiative for Literature and Culture in Arad Bridging the Faculties

The Amos Oz Initiative for Literature and The bridge was designed by renowned Culture in Arad was launched with an Israeli architect Ada Karmi-Melamede, who event in memory of Stuart B. Young, in the also designed the buildings now connected presence of his wife, Toni, and family during by the bridge. Made of steel and wood, the the 45th Board of Governors Meeting. 41-meter-long bridge spans the busy Ben-Gurion Boulevard. Passionate about the Negev and dedicated to its educational and cultural development, “Whenever someone asks me what I love Toni and the late Stuart B. Young, long- best about BGU – I love the students. standing champions of the town of Arad, Talking with them and learning from them, sought to combine their passion for the and finding out what makes them tick,” arts with their love of Israel. Speaking at the Jim Breslauer said at the ceremony. inauguration ceremony, Toni Young explained that, “The arts have the power to change Jim Breslauer currently serves as Chairman people and to transform societies. We of the Breslauer-Soref Foundation and strongly believe that literature and the arts sits on a number of local, national and help us find our humanity and understand Professor Emeritus Amos Oz international boards. “Our family has been the humanity and perspective of the other. Jim and Liz Breslauer (left) and BGU President Prof. Rivka Carmi (center) cut the ribbon in the presence of part of the BGU family for decades,” he Through the arts we experience a different unlike any other since the revival of the so many years by encouraging Hebrew former BGU President and MK Prof. Avishay Braverman and his wife, Yael (right). added. “It is an honor and a pleasure that dimension of life.” She expressed her wish Hebrew language. The Amos Oz Initiative for Literature research and writing and offering we have the ability to come here.” The that this Initiative would encourage more Literature and Culture in Arad will promote literary and cultural events to Arad’s The Jim and Liz Breslauer Bridge was Sciences and the Marcus Family Campus. Breslauers, from Long Beach, California, people to read Israeli literature and discover the flourishing of this exceptional creativity in residents and students. “This vision is dedicated in the presence of the benefactors The event, which included presentations funded the bridge with the return on the true nature of Israel and its people. Israel, and particularly in the Negev. based on establishing and deepening the and their family, and guests from around of interdisciplinary research projects, was their early investment in the Advanced connection between the Young Family and the world. The Breslauer-Soref Foundation moderated by Prof. Amos Katz, Dean of the Technologies Park. In his keynote address, Prof. Emeritus The three-part Initiative is designed to BGU, the Department of Hebrew Literature, generously supported the construction of Faculty of Health Sciences. Amos Oz stated that Israel is currently enable acclaimed author Amos Oz to give and the Heksherim Institute, on the one the bridge connecting the Faculty of Health experiencing in a cultural Golden Age, back to the city that was his home for hand, and on the other, the city of Arad and its various communities, with which the Youngs already have a strong connection,” Prof. Yigal Swartz, Director of the Heksherim Research Institute for Jewish and Israeli From Jaffa Literature and Culture, said at the event. to the Negev The Initiative opened with a two-day conference in Arad focused on promoting The pre-Board trip focused on Tel Aviv, young researchers. The Amos Oz Prizes the first Hebrew city and learned about for Excellence were awarded to graduate its dynamic growth. Guests visited and undergraduate students. The prizes will historic sites following in David Ben- also support the production of two books Gurion’s footsteps, while tasting the featuring the writings of artists from Arad very best of modern Israel. and from the creative writing track at BGU. Standing (left to right): Constance Three prizes were awarded to Negev high- Crosby; Victor Elias; Aya Bar-Hadas; school students for a poem, story, literary Ellen Marcus; Diana Sandler; Conrad essay or research project. Other planned Sandler; Tamara Fine; Gary Fine. events include a lecture series, a workshop Sitting (left to right): Daniel Rosenblum to promote BGU students in the creative (tour guide); Janice Levine; Toni Young; writing track and campus visits for Arad Dr. Paula Kabalo; Nina Perlis; Dodi residents. Toni Young (right) with author Etgar Keret and her daughter Ann Fromson.

12 13 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board BGU Recognizes Exceptional Accomplishment with the Awarding of Seven Honorary Doctorates

women, their perspectives and motives, the President of the European Commission, the Scientific Director of the École Supérieure thus revolutionizing gender studies for her ceaseless efforts to promote the de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles of and other social science disciplines; in values of science in her own country and Paris and in other important capacities, acknowledgment of an exceptionally throughout the world.” and who was instrumental in the creation accomplished researcher and writer, who of thriving technology-oriented start-up substantially expanded the breadth of Alexander M. Goren, USA companies, thus building bridges between knowledge regarding a girl’s transformation “With esteem for the Chairman of the Board research and industry; in acknowledgment into womanhood and human beings’ of Governors of Ben-Gurion University of the of a devoted friend of Ben-Gurion University moral development; in appreciation of Negev, a devoted friend and visionary leader; of the Negev and the benefactor of the Prof. an outstanding scientist, whose seminal in acknowledgment of an extraordinary Jacques Lewiner Fund for the Department of books – translated into many languages – entrepreneur and dynamic businessman, Chemistry; and with esteem for the founder constitute invaluable cultural assets, for the who has applied his rich experience of the Espace Pierre-Gilles de Gennes, admirable pursuit of justice and sense of managing his successful business ventures demonstrating his commitment to making responsibility that have guided her fearless in Israel and around the world, particularly in science accessible to the general public and struggle against oppression, discrimination the domains of investment and real estate, to the younger generation.” and exclusion of all kinds; and with gratitude to the realms of social action, community for her lifelong devotion to raising the female development and philanthropy; in recognition Lorry I. Lokey, USA voice, long silenced by theory and history, of an influential member of the American “With gratitude for a magnanimous imbuing it with new meaning and endowing Jewish community, for his support of such philanthropist and distinguished all of humanity with hope for a more valuable causes as education, culture businessman, who generously contributes egalitarian future.” and social welfare; to a distinguished to important causes worldwide; in honor Clockwise from back row, left: Prof. Jill Banfield; Alexander M. Goren; Prof. Anne Glover; Lorry I. Lokey; Prof. Adele Diamond; Prof. Carol Gilligan; Prof. Jacques Lewiner member of the Ben-Gurion Society, for his of a trailblazing journalist and entrepreneur, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Environmental Science, for the inspiration cortex, for illuminating the connection Prof. Anne Glover, UK exemplary service to the University’s Board founder of Business Wire, who for decades bestowed honorary doctorates on seven she provides to numerous colleagues and between biological and environmental “In recognition of a visionary academic, of Governors and its American Associates, stood at its helm, nurturing it into a thriving groundbreaking scientists, inventors and students and for her dedication to the factors as they pertain to our health, pushing whose commitment to the advancement of where he served as President; and with international corporation serving countless philanthropists during the 45th Board of advancement of education and research; in the boundaries of knowledge regarding science crosses borders and continents; in gratitude for a magnanimous and passionate communications agencies around the Governors Meeting. recognition of one whose comprehensive executive functions; in recognition of a fellow appreciation of an extraordinary researcher Zionist, whose family has been associated world; in acknowledgment of a munificent studies have enhanced our understanding of the Royal Society of Canada, whose in the fields of molecular and cell biology, with the University since its inception, for benefactor actively involved in the North Each recipient received a scroll with the of global climate changes, serving as a pioneering publications have enriched whose innovative study of the human upholding an illustrious tradition of giving, California Jewish community, who is University’s citation, as excerpted below. foundation for pivotal applications in the generations of students and colleagues; body’s response to stress at the molecular contributing to its physical growth and constantly guided by the value of giving to protection of the Earth; and with gratitude with esteem for a preeminent academic, level sheds light on the aging process; academic achievement, thus demonstrating others, and whose beneficence has touched Prof. Jill Banfield, USA for her insights regarding colonization who has held noteworthy positions in both in acknowledgment of an exceptional his profound commitment and unwavering numerous organizations, particularly “In appreciation of a trailblazing scientist, a dynamics of the human microbiome and public and academic institutions, including scientist, appointed Commander of the belief in its promising future and in its institutions of higher education; in leader in the field of geomicrobiology, who their long-term ramifications on the health as governmental advisor on matters of British Empire for her significant contribution importance to the residents of the Negev profound recognition of a trustee of several has brought this discipline to the forefront and quality of life of all human beings.” education, significantly influencing early to environmental sciences through the and the State of Israel.” corporations and associations, for his of scientific knowledge; to an internationally childhood pedagogy; and with appreciation development of pollution-detecting unfailing commitment to the advancement acclaimed expert, for her pioneering work Prof. Adele Diamond, Canada for one who has helped children succeed at biosensor technology; with gratitude for Prof. Jacques Lewiner, France of technology, education and science, on the impact of microbes and microbial “In acknowledgement of a brilliant tasks long thought beyond their ability, thus a highly respected advisor to public and “In appreciation of an ingenious physicist specifically in Israel; and in appreciation processes on the environment, and for researcher, among the founders of the field offering the prospect of a brighter future to governmental institutions in all aspects of and inventor, whose original research has of a member of the President’s Pillars and the exceptional creativity that led her to of cognitive developmental neuroscience, the next generation.” science, technology and innovation, the yielded invaluable innovations and industrial new member of the Board of Governors employ novel genetic methods for the whose groundbreaking discoveries have led recipient of numerous honors and a member applications; with high regard for an eminent of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, characterization of this unique ecosystem to worldwide improvements in the treatment Prof. Carol Gilligan, USA of prestigious international associations; and scientist, whose wide-ranging work integrates for his contribution to the construction of under extreme natural conditions; in honor of cognitive and attention disorders, thus “In recognition of a groundbreaking with esteem for an inspirational leader, who basic and applied physics, for his numerous a chemistry building and for his ardent of a member of the American National enhancing the lives of thousands of patients psychologist in the study of human has devoted herself to the empowerment publications illuminating the domain of friendship and extraordinary devotion to Academy of Sciences, a laureate of many worldwide; in honor of a distinguished, development, the founder of difference of women in academia while occupying electromagnetism; in profound recognition the welfare of the students and of the prestigious distinctions, including the award-winning scientist, who has attained feminism, who shed a bright new light on such eminent positions as Chief Scientific of a member of the French Academy of community at large.” Benjamin Franklin Medal in Earth and a profound understanding of the cerebral the disparities between young men and Adviser to the Scottish First Minister and to Technologies, who for many years served as

14 15 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board Celebrating BGU’s First Rothschild Cube – Center for Effective Social Building on the Occasion of Thank You, Action Inaugurated Our 45th Anniversary Mrs. Zlotowski!

featuring innovative technologies,” explained The following is adapted from the Edna Batan, Director of the program, 1971 remarks by the representative of this which is part of the Community Action year’s recipients of the Zlotowski Department. Admission Award for Outstanding Students, acknowledging their “It isn’t only the first of its kind in Israel; it is life-changing impact. the first in the world. Nonprofits face a lot of challenges – usually unsuccessfully – so My name is Moshe Borow. I am 24 years they need to improve effectiveness. The old, married to Reut and live in Sderot. Rothschild Cube is designed to help them I am honored to represent the 136 face this challenge. The integrated system students of Ben-Gurion University who uses the most advanced simulators and received the Zlotowski Award this year. the most simple of methods – actors role- Cornerstone laying ceremony of the Zalman Aranne Central Library, February 23, 1971 I am a first-year student in the playing. The combination of hi-tech and low- Department of Life Sciences and also tech will help us help others,” said Dr. Hagai take part in a special program called Katz, the Center’s academic consultant, at Ashalim, exposing us to the most the ceremony. 2014 up-to-date research in the field.

Addressing the Foundation’s motivation to When I married Reut, we decided Prof. Rivka Carmi with Shlomo Yanai partner with BGU in supporting this project, to make our home in Sderot. During Yanai remarked that the Rothschild family Operation Protective Edge, Reut and I The Rothschild Cube – Center for Effective Rothschild Caesarea Foundation. has always been committed to innovation ran activities in bomb shelters for local Social Action, a joint initiative of BGU and and entrepreneurship, combined with kids. For the past three years, I’ve the Rothschild Caesarea Foundation, “The Rothschild Cube increases the effective implementation. Its endowment is also been volunteering with Yitzhak, a was inaugurated during the 45th Board effectiveness of social initiatives by means now dedicated to higher education in Israel handicapped 37-year-old man, who of Governors Meeting in the presence of training, mentorship and the development and “BGU is a strategic pillar in a more was injured in two rocket attacks. of Shlomo Yanai, Vice Chairman of the of knowledge, using a new social simulator socially awareand effective future.” Beautifully renovated floor, 2014 When I decided to pursue my academic studies, I knew I wanted Over the past two years the Zalman Upon completion, the Library housed to study at BGU, to keep living in Aranne Central Library has undergone 83,000 volumes; today, this number has the Negev, but also because I had It All Adds Up a comprehensive renovation program, grown to one million books and thousands heard so much about the high level Prof. Wilfried Schmid (left) from Harvard refurbishing the University’s oldest building of electronic items, reflecting the Library’s of academics here. The exceptional University presented the annual in the spirit of the time and in accordance “green” policy. research programs, lectures and labs Mathematics lecture under the auspices with the latest standards of academic I participate in, all make me realize I’ve of the Center for Advanced Studies libraries worldwide. The Zalman Aranne The oldest book in the Library, composed by made the right choice. Central Library was the first building Isaac Abravanel as a commentary on Ethics in Mathematics. The Noriko Sakurai inaugurated on Ben-Gurion University’s new of the Fathers, was published in 1506. On behalf of all Zlotowski students, I Fellowship Award for outstanding Post campus, today the Marcus Family Campus. would like to say Todah to dear Doctorates and the Friedman Prize for The book of the largest dimensions contains Mrs. Zlotowski, and thank her for the Outstanding Doctoral Work for the year Designed by architects Shulamit and drawings of the Holy Land by painter wonderful support she has provided 2015 were also awarded at the event, Michael Nadler in 1968, it was constructed David Roberts and measures 62 x 45 cm. to so many students over the years. in the presence of Board member and in the Brutalist style, and features The smallest book is an English-German She enables us to pursue our dreams, supporter Daniel Sternheimer. monumental sculptural forms rendered in Dictionary from the Lilliput series, measuring and empowers us to make our own raw, molded concrete. 4.5 x 3 cm. contribution to the world.

16 17 The 45th Board of Governors Meeting NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV www.bgu.ac.il/board

Douglas and Bernice Krupp Marvin Israelow

Elise Donat with the IE-Club delegation from France

The Canadian delegation: Back row, l-r: Sheldon & Florence Zamick, Constance Crosby, Victor Elias, Tamara Fine, David Berson, Ariel Karabelnicoff, Gary Fine, Mark Mendelson, Mitch Oelbaum; Front row, l-r: Albert Lo, Lily Lo, Jack Altman, Diane Altman, Naomi Oelbaum Conrad and Diana Sandler Dodi and Murray Fromson

18 19 NEWSLETTER OF BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV

A Degree of A glance at BGU events Success Snapshots

Graduates of the Medical School for International Health ham it up for a group “selfie” Dr. Hana Abu Kaf, MD At Israel’s CyberTech 2015 Conference (l-r): Daphna Noily, Prof. Yuval Elovici, Eldad Matityahu, Peter Wexler, Prof. Bracha Shapira, Victoria Livschitz, Kira Makagon, Riki Dayan, Coby Dayan and Dr. Harry Saal 5,474 graduates received their degrees in a

Photo: Yisrael Belizovski series of ceremonies held in May and June, including 226 new PhDs from the Kreitman School of Advanced Graduate Studies and 99 MDs from the Joyce and Irving Goldman Medical School and the Medical School for International Health. A whopping 3,465 undergraduate degrees were conferred by the different faculties: Engineering, 1,107; Humanities and Social Sciences, 1,312; Natural Sciences, 419; Health Sciences, 342; and Management, 285.

1,489 Master’s degrees were granted, and another 195 people received teaching certificates.

Dr. Yonah Alexandre holds the new Torah scroll that Congratulations to our wonderful graduates! he and his wife Elisheva Bronstein donated to the Green Campus awarded prizes to students for innovative projects in the presence of the head of the PhD recipient Monique-Yolande Bassomo with the Ambassador of Cameroon in Israel Mr. Henri Etoundi BGU synagogue in memory of Manuel Bronstein initiative, Prof. Yaron Ziv, Rector Prof. Zvi HaCohen and Vice-Rector Prof. Gad Rabinovich Welcome to the BGU alumni family! Essomba, her advisor Prof. Gabi Lemkoff and family

20 21 Excellence Recognized

At the same ceremony, the Toronto Prize Prof. Taleb Mokari, Chemistry: for Excellence in Research was granted Mokari’s PhD work in nanoscience and to six exceptional researchers. Created nanotechnology yielded four patents and in 1998 by the Toronto Chapter of the 24 publications in top scientific journals. BGU Salutes Its Friends

Canadian Associates of BGU, the Prize He is now considered one of the world’s Photo: GPO supports promising young researchers, leading young researchers in the area of encouraging them to excel. nanomaterials synthesis.

The recipients were: Dr. Niv Papo, Biotechnology Engineering: Dr. Ilan Dinstein, Psychology: His research Papo, incumbent of the Edgar de Picciotto focuses on autism, investigating various Career Development Chair in Cancer aspects of brain function and brain memory Therapeutics and Imaging, focuses on the in autism, while collaborating with scientists field of protein engineering. His combination at Carnegie Mellon U, NYU and UCSD. of protein engineering, peptide chemistry He is a major force behind the new autism and in vivo cancer studies distinguishes him research center, which he established with as an exceptionally accomplished scientist clinical partners at Soroka University Medical and promising independent investigator. Center. He has received a number of prestigious Profs. Ron Dagan (left) and Avishai Henick awards, such as an ERC, the Krill Prize Dr. Natalie Elia, Life Sciences: Elia is and the Young Investigator Award from the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Social Sciences. He studies numerical an expert in cutting-edge microscopy Prostate Cancer Foundation. recognized excellence in teaching and processing, attention, word processing, and technologies, in particular super-resolution research at all levels during a special synesthesia, with the aim of elucidating the fluorescence microscopy. Her work The Charles Roth Prize for Excellence awards ceremony held in June under the basic mental operations and brain structures addressing the involvement of ESCRT in Teaching was presented to Dr. Naama auspices of Rector Prof. Zvi HaCohen. involved in these processes. machinery in cell division was published in Atzaba-Poria from the Department of several top journals, and she has recently Psychology. The award was created by Prof. Shmuel Ahituv was lauded for Prof. Ron Dagan, a world-renowned been awarded a prestigious Horizon 2020 Board of Governors member Lyon Roth in winning this year’s Israel Prize for Bible physician and researcher in the field of European Research Council Starting Grant honor of his father. It recognizes outstanding Congratulations to Amb. Esther Herlitz, long-time member of the University’s Board Studies. The prize committee cited Ahituv infectious children’s diseases and the and the Krill Prize from the Wolf Foundation lecturers who have had a significant impact of Governors and founder of Israel’s umbrella organization for voluntary services, upon for his contribution to the study of the incumbent of the Werner J. and Charlotte for excellence in scientific research. on their students’ lives and careers. receipt of the Israel Prize Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Prime Minister history of the Jewish People in the biblical A. Gunzburger Chair for the Study of Benjamin Netanyahu on Independence Day. age and to biblical literary commentary. He Infectious Diseases, has concentrated his Dr. Olga Kagan, Foreign Literatures The David and Luba Glatt Prize for deciphered ancient Hebrew inscriptions energies on finding vaccines for Hepatitis A, and Linguistics: An expert in semantics, Excellence in Teaching was awarded on • Prof. Joseph Kost, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, has been and presented them in an accessible format Rotavirus and pneumococcus bacteria. He combining traditional grammar and behalf of Adv. Herman Glatt, in memory of elected member of the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities. used by scholars and students in Israel and has also played an enormous role in better theoretical linguistics. She has already his parents, Luba and David. This year's around the world. understanding and overcoming the antibiotic- published two books, as well as articles in recipients are Dr. Daniel Markiewicz of the • Prof. Tamar Alexander of the Department of Hebrew Literature, incumbent of the resistant bacteria that cause infections in leading journals in the field. Mathematics Department and Dr. Sharon Estelle S. Frankfurter Chair in Sephardic Studies, and Director of the Gaon Center Two senior professors received the title of children’s respiratory and digestive tracts. Pardo of the Department of Politics and for Ladino Culture at BGU was recently appointed Chairperson of the National Distinguished Professor at BGU, an Dr. Dan Levy, Microbiology, Immunology Government. Council for Ladino Culture. honor granted to those who have achieved Prof. Iris Shai was awarded the Prize and Genetics: Levy, incumbent of the Alice international renown in their field and who for Excellence in Nutrition Research, and Seymour Powers Career Development These laureates were joined by more than • Prof. Pesach Shvartzman of the Faculty of Health Sciences and incumbent of continue to engage in original research. a unique prize created in honor of Joyce Chair in Basic and Clinical Oncology, is an 20 researchers, who received awards the Mayman Chair in Family Medicine received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Sillins on the occasion of her 75th birthday. expert in Epigenetics and Chromatin, a new for excellence in teaching, as selected the Israel Association of Family Physicians. Prof. Avishai Henik, a world-renowned Shai, the incumbent of the Dr. Herman field in molecular biology that enhances the through a University-wide student poll. All expert in psychology and cognitive Kessel Chair in Epidemiology, conducts understanding of gene expression. He has of these scholars have brought international • Prof. Emeritus Ilan Troen was elected President of the Association for Israel neuroscience, was one of the founders of groundbreaking research on the effects of introduced this new field to the Department recognition to BGU and are an inspiration to Studies, the preeminent international society for scholarship and research of the Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience and various diets on long-term health issues and and succeeded in obtaining research grants their students and colleagues. modern Israel. a former Dean of the Faculty of Humanities metabolic diseases. from ISF, BSF, GIF and ICRF. You make us proud!

22 23 Alum Meital Damri Questions Guilford Glazer Faculty of Business and Management

in day and nighttime temperatures, affects the way the grapes ripen, resulting in naturally high levels of acidity.

Midbar believes its outstanding wines showcase the positive aspects of small- scale wine production in the desert.

What are your goals for the future? Of the three wines we sent to Eshkol Hazahav (the Israeli wine “Oscars”), one won a gold medal and another a bronze. This is very encouraging, and proof that we are going in the right direction. Our ultimate aim is for people here and abroad to recognize the Negev as an important and excellent wine-growing region, just like in ancient times.

Meital Damri Receive BGU & YOU Online

“Wine in the Desert Is What We Do,” reflects Recognizing that more people choose to read Why did you choose to become a the winery’s aim to make internationally their news online or in digital format, BGU&You will be printed twice a year, Winter and Summer. winemaker? acclaimed limited-edition wines from grapes You can find updates about BGU all year round I was born and raised in Beer-Sheva, and grown exclusively in the Negev Desert. We on our website: www.bgu.ac.il while I was studying Management at BGU I produce 40,000 bottles per year. To subscribe, send an e–mail to [email protected] lived at home and helped my father with his and it will arrive directly into your inbox. hobby – making wine for our own use. The What is the uniqueness of wine world of wine and winemaking fascinated Produced by the Department of produced in the desert? Publications and Media Relations me and by the time I graduated I knew that Director: Faye Bittker was what I wanted to do professionally. Our vineyards are located in Nahal Zin, a Editor: Merav Fima dry river bed near the Ramon Crater, on Text: Ehud Zion Waldoks Translation: Jacqueline Watson-Alloun For me, winemaking is a combination of art terraces that date back to the Nabatean Photos: Dani Machlis, Shay Shmueli, period, when the Negev was an important Hanoch Grizitzky and science intertwined with a very strong Design: www.image2u.co.il and passionate connection to the land, wine-producing area. The combination which in my case, is the Negev. of low humidity/drought and abundant Join us on Facebook sunshine helps create a unique terroir in www.facebook.com/BenGurionUniversity Watch us on YouTube which the grower has complete control of How does being a winemaker in the amount of water the vine receives, and www.youtube.com/BenGurionUniversity the Negev differ from being one in thus the ability to regulate the size of the Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/BenGurionU (@BenGurionU) other places? leaves and of the grape itself. Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Israel’s wine industry is very dynamic and P.O. Box 653, Beer–Sheva 8410501, Israel The white top soil reflecting the sunlight onto Vol 12, No.1 continually expanding. Midbar’s slogan, the vines, combined with extreme variations