Dear Friends,
This week from May 15 to the 19, we had the pleasure of attending the 2022 Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) Board of Governors meetings held in Sde Boker and on campus in Be'er Sheva, live and in person. It is truly mind blowing to see, first hand, the incredible work being conducted at our remarkable BGU. This five-day event included presentations, performances, speeches, talks and meals with colleagues from around the world. Some of our generous donors were also recognized for their contributions with honorary degrees at a special, heartwarming ceremony.
In this special edition of eConnect, we are thrilled to share with you highlights of the Board of Governors Meetings. We hope these will inspire you to join us and get involved by Supporting the Vision of Israel's first prime minister, David-Ben-Gurion.
Sincerely,
Mitchell Oelbaum
President, BGU Canada
Mark Mendelson
CEO, BGU Canada
WATCH HIGHLIGHTS FROM OPENING NIGHT
BGU & YOU - The impact of donor support on Israel's only university in the desert
This week, Ben-Gurion University released a publication called "BGU & You." This publication focuses on the generous donations and the multitude of events hosted worldwide that have made a difference to the university. We are proud to say that Canada has been represented well in this publication with our events that included two national virtual events, two book series and a number of local events. Thanks for your commitment Canada!
Nine extraordinary individuals honoured by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Eight talented individuals received honorary doctorates from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev on Tuesday evening May 17, 2022, during the 52nd Board of Governors Meeting. They include one author, one CEO, three philanthropists, one rabbi, one scientist, and one university chancellor from five different countries.
Among the nine individuals who were honoured at this special event, were Canadian philanthropist Sylvan Adams and Professor Nahum Sonenberg. Watch their stories below and learn about their journeys.
Sylvan Adams
A McGill University professor, Nahum Sonenberg is a pioneer who shed light on the most fundamental translational control processes of protein synthesis. He was the first to discover the mRNA cap-binding protein responsible for the eukaryotic translation apparatus. His findings on the role of protein translation in memory and synaptic plasticity opened up a new field in neurobiology and lay the foundation for a better understanding of autism, fragile X syndrome, and processes of learning and memory. His groundbreaking work on proteins that affect the progress of diseases has led to the development of innovative cancer therapies.
A Canadian-born businessman, philanthropist and amateur cycling champion, he made Aliya in 2016. Adams previously served as CEO of the Montreal-based real estate firm Iberville Developments and was the sole shareholder of Summit International Bank.
Sylvan aims to show the world what he calls 'normal Israel' by presenting the true face of Israel, often negatively portrayed by media, to large audiences around the world. He has promoted this 'normal Israel' by bringing world class cultural and sporting events to the country. Adams has famously brought Lionel Messi and the Argentinian National soccer team, Madonna to the Eurovision Song Contest, and the French Super Cup to Tel Aviv.
Professor Nahum Sonenberg
BGU Canada visit to the Medical Simulation Building
The Medical Simulation Building at BGU is a brand new, state-of-the-art facility that is helping to shape the future of emergency medical services in Israel, Canada and right around the world. Students, researchers, and medical professionals who study and practice at the building at BGU have access to the latest technology, equipment and tools. They encounter real-life scenarios so they can perfect their art and be fully prepared for whatever comes their way in the real world.
Our Canadian contingency at the Board of Governors in Israel was offered a tour this week by the Head of the Medical Simulation Building, Dr. Oren Wacht.
Enjoy these picture highlights from our visit to the Board of Governors meetings
UPCOMING REGIONAL EVENTS
We can't wait to see you in-person once again! Check out our upcoming local events beginning with a June 9th gala in Vancouver, June 14th events in Montreal and Winnipeg, and a November 6th gala in Toronto. Learn more:
Let's Get Social…
SUPPORTING THE VISION
Our Negev. Our Legacy.
It started with David Ben-Gurion's vision,
and continues today as our mission.
