This year marks a special milestone for the Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, Israel’s only graduate school of marine sciences. Since its founding 10 years ago, the School has played a key role in protecting the country’s precious maritime resources, shaping the nation’s security and environmental agenda, and spearheading unique research initiatives with the scientific community in Israel and abroad. Over time, the School has significantly expanded its academic offerings to include marine biology, marine geosciences, marine technologies, and the study of ancient maritime civilizations. The School’s academic and research excellence was publically recognized when it was chosen by the Israeli government to lead the Mediterranean Sea Research Center of Israel (MERCI) – a unique consortium of Israel’s leading institutes of higher learning and national research centers.
The School’s visionary founder and benefactor, Leon H. Charney, Z”L, went to great lengths to open new scientific vistas for marine exploration in Israel. A great American philanthropist, lawyer, political advisor, media personality, and real estate giant, Leon H. Charney was above all a staunch friend of the State of Israel. For his significant contributions to the University as Chairman of the Board of Directors (2007-2013) and his longstanding support of student scholarships, research and the physical development of the University, he was named honorary life Chairman of the Board of Governors. Continuing her late husband’s legacy, Tzili Charney is supporting new academic initiatives while serving as Vice Chair of the University’s Board of Governors. This year, the University of Haifa will bestow upon her an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of her enduring commitment to the University of Haifa and for her longstanding support of the State of Israel.
“I envision the School’s research endeavors serving as a catalyst for positive change in the geopolitical reality of the Middle East and as a guiding light for global harnessing of the power of the sea.”- Leon H. Charney (1938-2016), Honorary Life Chairman of the Board of Governors
The Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences’ incredible growth would not have been possible without the support and generosity of our dedicated friends Lady Irene and Sir Maurice Hatter, The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, The J. Isaacs Charitable Trust, Mr. Morris Kahn, Mr. Peter Kadas, The Strauss Foundation, and The Wolfson Family Charitable Trust.
Related Articles:
- Uncovering the Secrets of the Deep Blue: The Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence
- Messages from Outgoing School Director, Prof. Zvi Ben-Avraham, and Incoming Director, Prof. Ilana Berman-Frank: The Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence