The Weizmann community recently celebrated eight prestigious recipients of the Institute’s highest honor, the Doctor of Philosophy honoris causa degree. In an expression of deep commitment to science, friends and supporters of the Institute from all over the world gathered to attend the moving ceremony, “Science for Life,” as part of the 76th International Board Annual General Meeting.
Journalist Dr. Ilana Dayan-Orbach, best known for anchoring the award-winning weekly investigative news program Uvda, was honored in recognition of her contributions to Israeli media and her tremendous professional achievements in investigative journalism, her noteworthy role in challenging and uncovering corruption, and her efforts to break down barriers for women in broadcasting. Dr. Dayan-Orbach was awarded the Sokolov Prize in 2015, a prestigious award for Israeli journalism. In 2018, she was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Israeli Academy of Film and Television.
Renée Drake was honored in recognition of her patronage and passion for promoting the arts, her efforts in bringing priceless works to galleries and museums worldwide, her generous support of the Weizmann Institute – which spans research and science education, and her work to expand and strengthen the Institute’s circle of friends around the world. Employing her charm and creative spirit, Mrs. Drake brings supporters into the Weizmann global family and makes the world a more beautiful and fascinating place.
Entrepreneur and philanthropist Elie Horn was honored for his lifelong dedication to Jewish identity and education, his inspiring endeavors spanning a wide array of causes in Israel, Brazil, and around the world, and his leadership in advancing cutting-edge research at the Weizmann Institute. His unwavering commitment to charitable causes has earned global admiration and respect.
Philanthropist Roberto Kaminitz was honored in recognition of his contributions as an entrepreneur and community leader who has channeled his resources and influence into a range of causes in Brazil and Israel. Mr. Kaminitz is celebrated for his wisdom, expertise, integrity, and exemplary commitment to advancing research and science education at the Weizmann Institute.
Having significantly shaped the fields of public policy, business, and conservation in the United States, Martha A. Darling was honored for her leadership, extensive philanthropic efforts, and unwavering commitment to advancing education, gender equality, sustainability, and science – and her dedication to fostering groundbreaking research and collaborations at the Weizmann Institute. Ms. Darling served as a member of the President’s Leadership Council of the National Wildlife Federation under President Barack Obama, where she played a pivotal role in reviving the NWF Action Fund.
Physician-scientist and professor Dr. Gilbert (Gil) Omenn was honored for his contributions to computational medicine and bioinformatics, his pivotal role in shaping and modernizing science policy and practice in the United States, and his unwavering support of the Weizmann Institute. The Harold T. Shapiro Distinguished Professor at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Dr. Omenn’s career encompasses biomedical research, public health and public policy, government service, and academic medical center leadership.
One of Israel’s most cherished performing artists, Danny Sanderson was honored in recognition of his exceptional talent as a musician, composer, and musical producer. His prolific lifelong contributions to the country’s cultural landscape have defined the sound of modern Israeli music, inspiring generations of musicians. Through his music, Mr. Sanderson illuminates the absurdity and humor of everyday life, offering a reflective look at the Israeli experience.
Internationally renowned as a trailblazer, Prof. Avi Wigderson was honored in recognition of his contributions to mathematics and computer science, his intellectual leadership and scholarly excellence, and his mentoring of young researchers. Prof. Wigderson is the only person to have received both the Turing Award, the highest honor for computer science, and the Norwegian Academy’s Abel Prize, the highest honor for lifetime achievements in mathematics. Prof. Wigderson is an esteemed research collaborator and cherished colleague at the Weizmann Institute.
Weizmann President Prof. Alon Chen addressed attendees and honorees: “This evening, we celebrate eight shining examples of excellence,” he said. “On behalf of the entire Weizmann Institute family, we salute you. Mazal tov.”
