HONOURING OUR DONORS, INVESTING IN THE NEGEV
Dear Friends,
As we enter Shabbat this week, our thoughts turn to the journeys that shape us — as individuals, as a people, and as a university at the heart of Israel’s future.
At the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Board of Governors meetings this past May, we were privileged to witness heartfelt moments as generous supporters were honoured with inscriptions on the University’s donor recognition walls. These names now stand in perpetuity as symbols of commitment, vision, and solidarity — guiding lights during a time of extraordinary challenge.
Watch this special video with testimony from those who were inscribed on the walls this year and were at the meetings. We owe each of them a deep debt of gratitude.
This week’s Torah portion, Parshat Matot-Masei, recounts the 42 encampments of the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. Each stop, each step, was part of a longer story — a narrative not just of wandering, but of growth, struggle, and arriving at purpose.
Today, in the wake of the devastating Iranian missile attacks, the Negev and BGU find themselves at a critical juncture in their journey. But just as in the Torah, our strength lies in unity. The donors honoured on our walls have taken bold steps forward — and we invite you to walk with them.
If you feel moved to do so, we warmly welcome your support through our Emergency Campaign. Every gift, large or small, joins a larger journey — one of resilience, rebuilding, and hope for Israel’s future.I am truly inspired by all those who have already stepped forward. May we each find a meaningful place in the ongoing story of BGU, the Negev, and the people of Israel.
Shabbat Shalom,
Andrea
PS – I was recently asked by a friend why I wear a yellow ribbon for the hostages every day. At first, I did so as an act of solidarity and to raise awareness of their plight. But after 659 days of Hamas hell, I now do it more to have a dedicated time every day when I focus solely and completely on the 50 hostages and their families who continue to suffer, including BGU Alumni Avinatan Or and the body of BGU student Sahar Baruch Z”L.
Supporting the Vision
It started with David Ben-Gurion's vision,
and continues today as our mission.
