Prof. Richard C. Horton, editor in chief of The Lancet, was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Uiversity of hiafa as part of its 49th Board of Governors Meeting. Prof. Horton was recognized for his exceptional contribution to the promotion of public health and wellbeing on a global level, and for his actions in raising the profile and status of the Israeli health system.  “Prof. Horton devoted decades to advancing truth and science in pursuit of solutions to complex global issues in public health and climate change,” noted Bradley Bloom, Chairman of the Board of Governors. Dr. Michael Halberthal, General Director of Rambam Health Care Campus, credited Prof. Horton with being an inspirational figure and a leading scientific and human rights voice throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Batia Ofer and Mr. Jeremy Isaacs, CBE (2019 recipient of a UofH Honorary Degree), longtime friends and supporters of the University from the UK, participated in the ceremony.

A fascinating discussion reflecting on the pandemic between Prof. Horton and Dr. Talya Greene (Head of the Department of Community Mental Health) followed the academic ceremony. In response to a question regarding the challenges we still face with COVID-19, Prof. Horton stated, “While many countries around the world are doing well with advanced vaccination programs in place, we are still in the midst of a pandemic, especially in parts of Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. We should celebrate our successes, but remain cautious about the dangers ahead.”

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