Building New Pathways: A Conversation with Kalanit Kleemer on the Northern Lights Initiative
When the University of Haifa launched its Northern Lights Initiative this past April, it was addressing a gap that had been quietly widening for decades. Israel’s Druze citizens are required to enlist at 18 and often serve in elite IDF roles, but many have bypassed higher education in favor of immediate employment after years of service, leaving a growing educational divide within the community. Developed in partnership with the IDF Human Resources Directorate, the Defense Ministry, and with support from the Jewish Federation of Chicago and the Jewish Federations of North America, the program offers discharged Druze soldiers a structured bridge into academic life. Kalanit Kleemer, Head of Administration in the Dean of Students Office, sat down with us to share how it came together.
University of Haifa launches program helping Druze IDF veterans pursue higher education
University of Haifa unveils program to help Druze after IDF service
Student Spotlight: Lee Avior Ovadia
Lee Avior Ovadia is a second-year student at the University of Haifa, studying Political Science, Philosophy, and Economics. She is also a Major in the IDF reserves who has served nearly 400 days since the war began, leading teams responsible for relocating hospitals into protected spaces under fire. Released from nearly seven years of combat service in August 2023, she was called back just weeks later. Through it all, she remains on track to graduate on time, supported by a faculty that has gone above and beyond.
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Student Spotlight: Daniel Yehudai
In recent months, with the start of Operation “Roaring Lion,” I was called back to reserve duty as an officer in the IDF’s Intelligence Directorate. Since beginning my medical studies at the University of Haifa in October 2025, I have served nearly 60 days of reserve duty. This has been a particularly complex and intensive period in my life, as I balance my commitment to serving and protecting the country with my desire and determination to continue my studies.
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.
