2025 President's Report
Honoring Visionary Leaders
2025 President’s Report > Honoring Visionary Leaders
Honoring Visionary Leaders
2024/25 Recipients of the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Honoris Causa
The University of Haifa proudly awarded its highest honor to individuals whose work reflects our core values of inclusion, innovation, and impact.
Linda and Michael Frieze
Conferred March 6, 2025
Over two decades ago, Michael and Linda Frieze first arrived at the University of Haifa through the Boston-Haifa Connection and have since become steadfast champions of educational opportunity and social mobility in Israel. Their philanthropy has empowered hundreds of minority students through initiatives such as the Summer Preparatory Program for Arab Youth and Hebrew language enrichment. In recognition of their enduring partnership, the University awarded them honorary doctorates in 2025.
Michael Frieze is Chairman Emeritus at Gordon Brothers and has held leadership roles across numerous civic and educational institutions. Linda Frieze, a social worker by training, has contributed to organizations including CAMERA, NATAL, and the Shalom Hartman Institute. Together, they exemplify values-driven leadership and lifelong dedication to Israel and Jewish community life.
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Justice Esther Hayut
Conferred December 23, 2024
The University of Haifa recognized Justice Esther Hayut, President of the Israeli Supreme Court (Ret.) for her lifelong dedication to upholding democracy, judicial independence, and the rule of law. Throughout her distinguished career, she has championed civil rights, equality, and transparency—values at the core of our mission and embodied in the work of our Clinics for Law and Social Change.
Born in Herzliya to Holocaust survivor parents, Justice Hayut rose through Israel’s judicial system to lead the Supreme Court from 2017–2023. Her landmark rulings and unwavering commitment to judicial independence cemented her legacy as one of Israel’s most influential legal figures. She remains a model of courage and integrity for future generations of legal professionals.
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Jules and Eddie Trump
Conferred September 18, 2024
The University of Haifa conferred honorary doctorates upon Jules and Eddie Trump in recognition of their visionary leadership in education and their long-standing commitment to Israel’s future. Through the Trump Foundation, they have made transformative contributions to mathematics and science education in Israel—fields they champion as keys to social mobility and innovation. Their support has played a vital role in strengthening educational excellence at the University of Haifa.
Originally from South Africa and now based in the USA, the Trumps also support initiatives like the “I Have a Dream” Foundation, reflecting their deep belief in equal access to opportunity and the power of education to change lives.
2025 PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Produced by the Division of External Relations
© June 2025 University of Haifa
Mount Carmel, Haifa ISRAEL
www.haifa.ac.il
Photography: University of Haifa Archives, American Friends of University of Haifa, Itai Bodel, and Manara Center.