Dear friends,

There is an ongoing tension between celebrating joyful Jewish experiences and remembering the painful parts of our history. Today, with antisemitism at intolerable levels, many of us are living with a persistent sense of vigilance, and it is exhausting.

That’s why this year, I don’t just want to acknowledge Jewish Heritage Month — I want to celebrate and revel in it! To mark the occasion, I’m highlighting three remarkable examples from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), all related to the environment and leadership.

BGU President Professor Daniel Chamovitz – What a Plant Knows

President Chamovitz’s acclaimed book, What a Plant Knows, explores how plants experience the world. His accessible approach brings cutting-edge biology to a broad audience, inspiring wonder and blurring the line between science and spirituality. President Chamovitz has said the book was inspired by a blend of scientific inquiry and awe—a reminder that science isn’t just about answers but about asking better questions. Oh – and in his “spare time” he not only leads the fastest growing university in Israel, but he also chairs the Association of University Heads.

Professor Dan Blumberg – Space & Remote Sensing

As BGU’s VP for Regional and Industrial Development, Prof. Blumberg leads pioneering research in satellite imaging and environmental monitoring—work that aids disaster response and climate resilience. These efforts reflect our value of tikkun olam, repairing the world. Oh — and he also leads the Israel Space Agency in his “spare time”!

The Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research

BGU is a global leader in water purification, desalination, and desert agriculture. Developed in the Negev, these technologies now support water-scarce regions from Africa to California—living proof of Israeli ingenuity and our Jewish tradition of resourcefulness and care for the Earth.

These stories celebrate BGU’s global impact and reflect Jewish excellence, curiosity, and our drive to build a better future for all.

Let’s take pride in our remarkable heritage, always on display at BGU!

Warmly,

Andrea