MESSAGE FROM ANDREA FREEDMAN
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER - BGU CANADA
Dear friends,
Last weekend, the brutal execution of six Israeli hostages by Hamas terrorists shattered the Jewish people.
Again.
The trauma experienced by Israelis is difficult to comprehend, which makes Ben-Gurion University Canada’s (BGU Canada) special High Holidays and Sukkot campaign for mental health so critical and unique. Lilach Kipnis Z”L, a dedicated BGU alumna, social worker and art therapist in the Gaza Envelope, was tragically murdered on October 7. In 2021, she authored a children’s book, Sounds that Startle, written to help children navigate the trauma of conflict. Today, this book is a vital source of hope and healing.
Donors who make gifts of $100 or more to this campaign will receive a copy of her book.
Your donations will help provide critical mental health services to BGU students, staff, faculty and Negev residents healing from the ongoing trauma of October 7. I plan to incorporate the book into my Rosh Hashanah celebration, as a reminder of the pain of our Israeli brothers and sisters, and the inextricable and unbreakable bonds between us.
Over the last 11 months, “powerless” has been a prevalent feeling. And yet, there are things each of us can do - advocate, pray, attend Israel programs and important events, and we can give Tzedakah. This year, please consider supporting BGU Canada’s special campaign for mental health as part of your charitable giving.
Last week’s Torah Portion was Shoftim, which includes the well-known line “Justice, justice shall you pursue”. Let us continue to seek justice for all the hostages.
With appreciation,
Andrea
SAVE THE DATE - WEBINAR
One year later: BGU reflects on October 7
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) President, Professor Daniel Chamovitz will lead a global live broadcast to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. Professor Chamovitz will provide insight and understanding of what transpired during the last year in Israel and at BGU.
The webinar will be held on Sunday, October 6th at 12 p.m. ET, 11 a.m. CT and 9 a.m. PT.
Registration will open in the coming days.
VIDEO OF THE MONTH
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER - BGU CANADA
This must watch conversation between Katharina von Schnurbein, European Commission Coordinator on combating antisemitism, and Joanne Moore, BGU Board member and international development consultant was recorded during the Board of Governors event in May 2024.
REGIONAL EVENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & NEWS
Montreal - Federation CJA March for Jerusalem a big success
BGU Canada in Montreal President Peggi Cohen-Rabinovitch joined BGU Canada CEO Andrea Freedman, Montreal Executive Director Simon Bensimon and other board members at the March for Jerusalem attended by 15,000 Montrealers yesterday. The event began with a five kilometre walk through the streets of Montreal and ended with a powerful concert featuring Montana Tucker, the Montreal Shira Choir, local artists, and Israeli Eurovision star, Eden Golan. Amid the celebration, a special tent was dedicated to the hostages still being held in Gaza.
The last March for Jerusalem event was held in 2014.
Register now: An evening with BGU Professor Ilan Troen
Join BGU Canada in Montreal for a special evening commemorating the events of October 7th. Professor Ilan Troen's daughter, Deborah Z"L, and son-in-law Shlomi Z"L were murdered in Kibbutz Holit on that day.
The event will be held on September 26th, 2024 at 7 p.m.
For more details and to register click the button below.
Vancouver - Help Israeli paramedics earn a degree
Help BGU Canada – BC and Alberta Chapter to send paramedics to university. By giving to the Heartbeat of Education Campaign – Supporting Israeli Paramedics’ Academic Journey you can transform the lives of Israeli paramedics through education. This campaign aims to raise funds for scholarships that will send these essential workers to university, enabling them to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Medical Services.
Toronto - Tickets are selling fast for The Way Forward Gala
More than 50% of tickets to The Way Forward Gala featuring Ambassador Nikki Haley have already been sold. The Toronto event will be held on December 1st and proceeds will support mental health services for BGU students, staff, faculty and area residents.
Get your tickets today, before they're gone!
BGU IN THE NEWS
New autism interventions could spring from Israel
Israel21c
October 7 wrecked Israelis' college dreams: A scholarship can reignite them
The Jerusalem Post
Study of Cairo’s synagogues reveals an Egyptian Jewish ‘Golden Age’ abruptly ended
The Times of Israel
Meet the Israeli researcher
working on healthy eating to build a sustainable future
Jpost
BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV MOURNS
The entire BGU community is stricken by grief and mourning at the loss of our students, staff and faculty who were murdered and killed in the line of duty during the Iron Swords war.
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Supporting the Vision
Our Negev. Our Legacy.
It started with David Ben-Gurion's vision,
and continues today as our mission.
