Sheldon made many contributions to Ariel University, but his main contribution was not material, but moral. • In an institution that faces difficulties and boycotts, sometimes the most important thing is the partners in the journey • A personal column
Opening of the school year at the Ariel Medical School, 2019
Last week, a very precious man passed away, a man of vision and action, who did much for the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
His diverse and extensive contribution on the national and national level has been told by others, and many more will tell.
I would like to focus on his work for the advancement of Ariel University in Samaria, which has reached a place where it stands today thanks in large part to its support.
Sheldon Adelson was a legendary man, who believed and did for the development of the academic institution in Ariel.
He did so in calm times, but also and especially in difficult times, when the world united together against our becoming a university and our development.
Sheldon expressed his support for us publicly, demonstratively and with great pride.
In great pain: Sheldon Adelson 1933-2021
Thanks to his faith and support, a medical school named after Miriam and Sheldon Adelson was established at Ariel University, and today two cycles of future doctors are already studying there.
The establishment of a medical school was a historic event, which changed the face of the university and is expected in the future to affect the medical system in Israel.
Sheldon made many contributions to the university.
However, his main contribution in my eyes was not material, but moral.
In an institution that faces many difficulties and various boycotts, in addition to the difficulties that pile up in front of any young academic body, sometimes the most important thing is the partners along the way.
An external figure who believes in you and your goals.
Sheldon has repeatedly given us hope, vision, determination and strength, and has made sure to emphasize at every opportunity the academic importance inherent in our university.
I will not forget his first visit to the university, when I was still the head of the Department of Molecular Biology.
During the meeting with him, he declared: "A medical school will be established here! I will help you."
Since then, Sheldon has visited the university several times, and each time we have been re-excited by his friendly presence and his faith in us.
We have lost a dear man, but his work for the advancement of academia will only intensify.
The medical school and next to it the medical center that is being built these days are an important milestone for the prosperity of the area and a great tool for dialogue and the promotion of peace in our area.
That was his vision, as he said on one of his recent university visits: "I anticipate that the establishment of a medical school and medical center will form a good foundation for promoting peace with our neighbors - and so I believe it will be."
It is impossible not to mention the deep and close connection that existed between Dr. Miriam and Sheldon Adelson and Yigal Cohen-Orgad, the university's founder, also an exemplary man, who passed away about a year ago. They were full partners in the vision. In Samaria.
We will always remember you, Sheldon, and make sure that your legacy is preserved and strengthened.
We extend our condolences to Miriam, the entire Adelson family and the entire people of Israel upon the death of this dear Jew.
Of blessed memory.
The author is the Rector of Ariel University
