Ben-Gurion University of the Negev conferred five honorary doctorates on outstanding individuals (pictured above) on Tuesday evening on the Marcus Family Campus in Beer-Sheva: Prof. Jan Low, Ohad Naharin, Prof. Ahmad Natour, Ambassador Daniel B. Shapiro and Toni Young. Adv. Asher Heled was awarded the President's Award.
BGU President Prof. Daniel Chamovitz lauded the recipients and welcomed them to the BGU family.
"For me, each of the five honorees on stage this evening represents the values of persistence and excellence in the pursuit of the greater good. Each has endeavored untold hours every day, over months and years, to achieve greatness, to make our world a better place.
"The truth is, they don't need us to acknowledge their accomplishments - they did not labor to be acknowledged, and, we thank them for allowing us, to honor them. Their acceptance of an honorary degree from BGU, provides us a mirror through which we hope to see a bit of ourselves, and honors our institution and what it stands for.
"Your actions and accomplishments are an inspiration for all of us here today. We are proud and delighted to have you join our family and we look forward to welcoming you on many future occasions to Ben-Gurion University of the Negev."
Speaking on behalf of the honorees, Daniel Shapiro called BGU a “jewel of the State of Israel” and said he was struck by his colleagues “willingness to break down barriers, to blaze new trails, to nourish body and spirit.
“As ambassador, I visited all the universities in Israel at least once,” Shapiro recalled. “But t was particularly drawn to BGU, and I found myself visiting again and again. I was, and continue to be taken with the growth and creativity I find here, and by the special qualities of both students and faculty members here.”
Dr. Jan Low (pictured above) is the head of the International Potato Center and is a leading authority on international food security. Dr Low's research into bio-fortification of sweet potatoes has led to the breeding of sweet potato strains that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Her work has led directly to the alleviation of hunger for millions of people, the reduction of illness in developing nations, as well as concurrent empowerment of women.
Dr. Jan Low.pdf
Ohad Naharin (pictured above) is one of the preeminent choreographers of the modern era. His stage performance, acclaimed choreography and his term as Artistic Director of the acclaimed Batsheva Dance Company have made him a towering figure in Israel's cultural life.
Ohad Naharin.pdf
Prof. Ahmad Natour (pictured above) is an eminent and visionary jurist, an ardent champion of human rights and an erudite Qadi and scholar, who has left an enduring mark on Sharia law (Moslem religious law) in Israel. During his many years as President of the High Sharia Court of Appeals, Prof. Natour worked to develop Israel's Islamic courts by initiating profound reforms and transforming them into a modern legal system accessible to all. In addition to his service to the Islamic Waqf and judicial system, Prof. Natour has served as Chairman of the Public Council for Special Education for Arabs, Honorary President of the Interfaith Council of Israel, and a member of many diverse organizations devoted to civil rights and to fostering Arabic language and culture.
Prof. Ahmad Natour.pdf
Daniel B. Shapiro (pictured above) is former United States Ambassador to Israel. During the years leading up to his appointment, Daniel B. Shapiro gained renown as a key advisor to Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama and Senior Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the National Security Council. As ambassador he was instrumental in negotiating the $38 billion Memorandum of Understanding for US military assistance to Israel, and he has continued to serve the interests of the United States and of Israel since leaving office. Shapiro's sharp mind and engaging personality have enabled him to promote Israel-US trade relations; to advocate for a strong alliance between the two nations and to build bridges of understanding across cultures and continents in order to ensure a brighter future for the people of the Middle East and the entire world.
Ambassador Daniel B. Shapiro.pdf
Toni Young (pictured above) is the president of American Associates of Ben-Gurion University. She is a prolific author and scholar, a lover of arts and literature and a tireless supporter of Israel and the American Jewish community. Her leadership roles have included service as vice chair of the United Jewish Communities of North America; president of the Jewish Federation of Delaware; Bezalel Art Academy; the Jewish Agency for Israel; American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee; Ben-Gurion Society and the Board of Governors of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.
Toni Young.pdf
Above: Adv. Asher Heled (center) receives the President's Award
