This year, Ben-Gurion University Canada (BGU Canada) is embarking on an unprecedented fundraising journey, “The Future is Now Gala”, featuring the legendary Hollywood star, Michael J. Fox. This gala presents an extraordinary opportunity for individuals and sponsors alike to participate with BGU Canada and change the Israeli healthcare landscape forever.
BGU Canada has a vital role to play in showcasing Ben-Gurion University’s academic excellence and cutting-edge research to the Canadian public. If the world is ever going to see breakthroughs in alternative energy, water purification and management, nanotechnologies, community medicine and global health, then BGU is the place to invest in and support. A unique oasis of innovation, BGU is not only changing Israeli society, but is also collaborating with the Negev’s diverse communities, its Arab neighbours and developing nations to improve the world.
Through your sponsorship, you will impact Ben-Gurion University, the Negev region, and Israel. You will also leave a mark on every future medical professional with the potential to save millions of lives and improve global healthcare forever. The future is now; be a part of it!
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev’s (BGU) new four-story state-of-the-art Medical Simulation Building solidifies BGU’s position as a world leader in simulation-based medical education. The use of mannequins and virtual reality technology (VR) allows BGU’s medical, nursing, and paramedic students to encounter life-like scenarios and develop their clinical skills without endangering patients. Each simulation room will include specialized medical equipment and devices, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the equipment and become proficient in techniques and procedures (including advanced life-support procedures), before performing them on patients. Domestic and international BGU students will have full access to the classrooms, equipment and technology available at the Medical Simulation Building throughout their studies at the university. The advantage of this type of innovative educational experience is that BGU will graduate the best medical professionals, who will in turn practice medicine across Israel, North America and around the world, improving the lives of global communities in years to come.
Through your sponsorship of “The Future is Now Gala”, you will impact Ben-Gurion University, the Negev region, and Israel. You will also leave a mark on every future medical professional with the potential to save millions of lives and improve global healthcare forever.
Canadian born Michael J. Fox began his illustrious acting career at the age of 15. He shot to fame when he landed the role of lovable conservative Alex P. Keaton on NBC’s enormously popular sitcom “Family Ties” (1982-1989) for which he earned three Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. His star continued to rise as Fox appeared in over a dozen leading roles throughout the 80’s and 90’s, most notably as Marty McFly in the famous “Back to the Future” trilogy.
Fox was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease in 1991. He launched “The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research” in 2000. He is the recipient of several lifetime achievement awards for accomplishments in acting, including the 2011 Hoerzu Magazine Golden Camera Award and the 2010 National Association of Broadcasters Distinguished Service Award.
Professor Daniel A. Chamovitz Ph.D. was elected President of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in August, 2018. Professor Chamovitz is a native of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. He studied at both Columbia University in New York City and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he obtained a PhD in genetics. Professor Chamovitz is an internationally recognized research scientist promoting plant sciences and their contribution to feeding the growing world population.
“For the past 50 years we have been learning how to thrive in the desert. It is clear to everyone that the field of sustainability and climate change is what sets Ben-Gurion University apart from every other university in Israel.”
Co-Chairs
Naomi Oelbaum
Mitchell Oelbaum
Eric Beutel
David Dulberg
Committee
Corrine Broder
Gary Fine
Tamara Fine
Ronda Goldberg
Elliot KohnSusan Rose
John Rose
Ralph Shepherd
Michael Spigelman
Eric Beutel, President, Toronto
Mitchell Oelbaum, National President
Mark Mendelson, CEO
Galit Solomon, National Director, Communications & Marketing
Shimmy Wenner, Executive Director, Toronto and Atlantic Provinces
Alysse Mathalon, Project Manager