Dearest friends and colleagues across the globe,
I write to you at a time that continues to challenge us all. The war that began in October 2023 has impacted countless lives and continues to affect our students, colleagues, and communities in profound ways. We hold in our thoughts and prayers those still in captivity, the families who await their return, and the many innocents — Israelis and Palestinians alike — whose lives have been upended by the horrors of this ensuing war.
On our campus, these realities are deeply felt. Students and staff bring with them diverse perspectives and strong emotions, with many calling for an end to the war. In this climate, we remain committed to fostering a space of dialogue, respect, and learning. The Faculty of Humanities is, in many ways, a microcosmos of coexistence: 17% of our students are Palestinian, and our classrooms bring together voices from across Israel and the world. This shared space is precious, and we work hard to nurture it.
At the same time, we continue to do what we do best: advancing research, cultivating new generations of scholars, and extending the reach of the humanities into society. Our task is not only to study the past and understand the present, but also to imagine and shape a better future. Through teaching and research, we contribute to conversations that extend well beyond the walls of the university — conversations that foster dialogue, inspire change, and help build a more just world.
In this issue, you’ll find highlights that reflect the creativity, vitality, and impact of our work. The Artists Program brings Israeli artists and international scholars together to spark new ideas and conversations, while a scholarly reunion unites former classmates — now distinguished ERC grant recipients — with their middle-school teacher, highlighting the enduring bonds of learning and mentorship. You’ll also read about our students’ advanced training in Arabic dialectology through a collaborative summer workshop in Berlin, and the inspiring work of the Center for Jewish Art, home to the world’s largest digital archive of Jewish culture.
Together, these stories remind us that, even in difficult times, the humanities strengthen human connection and help lay the groundwork for a more thoughtful future. As my term as Dean concludes at the end of September, I am deeply grateful for the privilege of serving our faculty, and extend my warmest wishes to my successor, Prof. Elisheva Baumgarten, under whose leadership I am confident the faculty will continue to thrive. I also wish to thank you — our readers and friends around the globe — for your ongoing interest, support, and partnership.
Most sincerely,
Prof. Nissim Otmazgin
Dean, Faculty of Humanities