Dear Friends,

It is a privilege to assume the Chair of the American Society of the University of Haifa and join the other new members of the University's leadership, including Leon Charney, Chairman of the Board of Governors, and Fran Ginsburg, incoming Executive Director of ASUH. As we start the new decade we also mark the beginning of a new era at ASUH.

Now in its 38th year, the University of Haifa is Israel's youngest major research university, yet it has already positioned itself as a leading institution because of its pluralism, research facilities and academic excellence. The University has also received international recognition for many of its programs, including peace and conflict resolution, while others like the new Marine Sciences School seek to have a global impact.

The University of Haifa has become the leader in higher education in Israel in connecting academic excellence with social responsibility. It has the only IBM center on a university campus outside the United States and is the only training ground for Israel's naval officers. Simply put, the University of Haifa represents the most positive, vibrant, diverse and successful institution of higher learning in the entire Middle East.

My visits to the University of Haifa have convinced me that one of the best ways for Israel to maintain its strength, respect its history, yet evolve with the times and confront future challenges is to support the University of Haifa.

My background as a child of Holocaust survivors has given me a unique perspective on the world--aspects which are part tragic yet full of hope. The ability to help support a university in Israel that fosters respect for cultures has tremendous personal resonance for me, and I hope for you too.

Please commit yourselves to supporting the State of Israel, and make this the year that you involve yourself in a substantial way with the University of Haifa.

Sincerely,

Arthur K. Wachtel
Chair of the Board

Dear Friends,

I stand at a unique vantage point. As the President and former Chairman of the Board of the American Society of the University of Haifa, I have been privileged to enjoy an up-close and personal view of the University. As an educator, I know and appreciate how extraordinary a place it is.

Not even 40 years old, this astonishingly successful university with budgetary challenges in all directions is nevertheless at the top of its game,in teaching, research and social services. The place is a modern miracle, known for excellence in several fields: marine sciences, energy research, security, legal studies and brain research--just to name a few.

The University of Haifa's culturally diverse student body, interacting in an environment of learning and questioning, creates opportunity for meaningful discourse on the highest level. What better environment than the academy for the big questions about Israeli society to be safely and rigorously addressed? Higher education in Israel is an exceedingly important locus for real dialogue and significant cultural exchange.

Quality higher education is a defining element of Israel's culture and future society. The University of Haifa is committed to access for all Israel's citizens and to offering them the finest research and educational opportunities. My professional work in higher education makes my participation in the University a natural and meaningful way for me to connect and contribute to an Israel that I love. And this institution has completely captured my imagination. It will capture yours too.

Wherever there is such confluence of excellence in education, research and service to society, it merits our investment. The University of Haifa stands out among the best and deserves our support.

Yours sincerely,

Lorne Buchman
President, Board of Directors