Student Spotlight: Shanny Aya Bittom
Shanny Aya Bittom is a 26-year-old medical student in her first year at the University of Haifa’s medical school. Born in the United States and raised in Rishon LeZion, she now lives in Herzliya with her partner and their cat.
Standing with Students in a Time of War: A Conversation with Prof. Batya Engel-Yeger
Prof. Batya Engel-Yeger serves as Dean of Students at the University of Haifa, who has built her entire academic career at the University of Haifa and the Faculty of Medicine – Technion. A researcher whose work focuses on sensory processing and daily function, she spoke with AFUH about leading student life at one of Israel’s most exposed universities during an escalating war.
From Coexistence to Action: The MA in Interfaith Dialogue and Cooperation at the University of Haifa
At a time when religious identity is often discussed in the context of division, the University of Haifa is advancing a different model, one rooted in rigorous scholarship, sustained engagement, and long-term leadership across communities.
Student Spotlight: Ophir Netzer
AFUH spoke with Ophir about what she is seeing among Nova survivors today, what science is revealing about trauma and consciousness, and where she finds hope amid ongoing pain.
Donor Spotlight: Jay Ruderman
Jay Ruderman has never been content to sit quietly on the sidelines. As an activist, author, and President of the Ruderman Family Foundation, he has made it his mission to challenge assumptions, push boundaries, and transform public attitudes.
From Physics to Diplomacy: Baidaa Obaid Finds Her Passion at University of Haifa
Baidaa Obaid, 22, grew up in the small Druze village of Sajur, and her journey through higher education has been anything but linear. Starting in engineering at another institution, she discovered her true calling in English Literature and Cognitive Science when she transferred to Haifa. Along the way, she found her voice in diplomacy as the president of the University’s Model United Nations program. In addition to that, Obaid also has her hands full as a research assistant in a neuroscience lab and a violinist. AFUH spoke with her about her path, passions, and advice for students charting their own journeys.
Bill Ackman calls Kirk’s death a catalyst, reaffirms Israel support
By Maayan Hoffman | September 16, 2025Ynet News Bill Ackman, a leading investor and philanthropist, together with his wife, Dr. Neri Oxman, has advanced global initiatives in health, scientific research, education, and culture through Pershing Square Philanthropies. The couple has also been at the forefront of the fight against antisemitism, while making major investments in […]
From IT Leader to Aspiring Diplomat: Amer Swatera’s Journey at University of Haifa
Amer Swatera, a second-year political science student at University of Haifa from Maghar, a small town in northern Israel home to Muslims, Christians and Druze, is balancing his studies with a career as an IT team leader. With a passion for diplomacy and a wealth of life experience, Amer brings focus, curiosity, and dedication to both the classroom and his future ambitions in the Foreign Service. He sat down with AFUH to talk about his experience at the University and his plans for the future.
Spotlight on Dr. Thamar Gindin: Understanding Iran from the Inside Out
As tensions escalate with Iran, few voices offer the depth, nuance, and cultural fluency of Dr. Thamar Gindin. A linguist, researcher at University of Haifa’s Ezri Center for Iran and Persian Gulf Studies, and host of two Hebrew-language podcasts on Iran, Dr. Gindin has devoted her career to decoding Iran—its people, politics, and the powerful narratives shaping both.
