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Dear Friends,
Today is both January 5th and October 90th. I think the Jerusalem Post put it best — 90 days ago, October 7th, was the day many of us began counting from one. It is difficult to move forward while there are still hostages being held in Gaza, while the war continues, and so many soldiers — including over 6,000 Tel Aviv University (TAU) students — have been called up to fight a war Israel didn't start and didn't want. As life goes on and we move forward, celebrating lifecycle events, reopening the University, and starting classes on December 31, we feel a need to do more.
I am pleased to share that thanks to your generosity, Tel Aviv University has opened the emergency National PTSD Clinic in response to the enormous number of cases of PTSD and trauma following the war. Operated by TAU's National Center for Traumatic Stress and Resilience, the goal of the newly-opened clinic is to treat a minimum of 1,000 patients this year. Priority will be given to adults and reserve soldiers and additional programs and services will be added over time.
Supporting Tel Aviv University, specifically student reservists, is an actionable way to help Israel. The University has just launched the "Uniform to University Scholarship Campaign" to provide academic and financial assistance to returning reservists. As the country sets about rebuilding, we know that our students are Israel’s future leaders and creators. We can provide the financial assistance to help students transition back to their studies and resume their career paths. As Professor Porat, President of TAU, noted, "These brave young people put their dreams on hold and their lives in danger in defense of Israel — and now we are equally duty-bound to ensure they get all of the academic and financial assistance they need to save this school year." To support these reservists, please click here.
In the spirit of moving forward, a joint study with researchers from four Israeli universities including Tel Aviv University looked backward in time using a new technology that relies on the earth's magnetic field to interpret archaeological findings from biblical times. The study scientifically corroborates an event described in the Second Book of Kings: the conquest of Gath by Hazael King of Aram. The researchers measured the magnetic field recorded in burnt bricks to determine the intensity of the fire and the scope of destruction in Gath, the largest and most powerful city at the time, and also to understand construction practices in the region.
As we start 2024, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and support. It is because of your assistance that Tel Aviv University remains a center of excellence and a leader in Israel and the world.
Wishing you a healthy, happy, and peaceful 2024. Shabbat shalom.
Jennifer Gross
Chief Executive Officer
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