Who knew that a stock pitch competition could spark such excitement among undergraduate students? Or that an international event could inspire female students to break into the finance industry? This is exactly what The Hebrew University Business School has achieved with their participation in the William & Mary Women's Stock Pitch competition.

 

On Monday, July 1, 2024, Rector Tamir Sheafer of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem presented the prestigious International Excellence Award for the development and advancement of academic internationalization. Initiated and oorganized by the University's International Office, this award serves to recognize and showcase outstanding international initiatives and significant accomplishments within the University community.

 

"This award celebrates the transformative power of international education and engagement," remarked Prof. Oron Shagrir, Vice-President for International Affairs. "It underscores our commitment to internationalization across the university in research, education and administration, and the pivotal role played by our International Office in spearheading the institutions's international strategy, policy and impressive portfolio of international activity. "

 

This year's ceremony, marking the third time the award has been given, honored exceptional contributions from three distinguished teams:

 

Third Place – The Hebrew University Business School

Hebrew University’s Business School secured third place for its active participation in the international William & Mary Women's Stock Pitch competition. Under the guidance of Prof. Yigal Newman, undergraduate business students present investment recommendations, showcasing the University’s commitment to ‘internationalization at home’ and providing practical mobility for selected female students.

 

 

The competition, organized annually by the Boehly Center at the University of William & Mary in the United States, aims to empower female students to pursue careers in the traditionally male-dominated field of finance. It also serves as a platform for international networking and leadership development.

 

Three years ago, Hebrew University was invited to join the competition, with Prof. Yigal Newman taking the lead. He offers a non-credit course to teach female students the fundamentals of investing and stock pitching, culminating in the selection of a team of three students to attend the summit.

 

Despite delays in the academic calendar this year, students persevered in their preparation, demonstrating their enthusiasm and gratitude for this opportunity.

 

Runner-Up: School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine

The School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, earned second place for pioneering Israel’s first exchange program in occupational therapy. This initiative facilitates student exchanges within the University and across Israel, enhancing clinical skills and offering advanced learning opportunities.

 

 

In addition to enriching educational experience, the program strengthens the School's international collaborations, fostering a global perspective among students and advancing the University's internationalization efforts. The committee commended the Program's innovative approach and its significant impact on students and the academic community.

 

First Place - The Library Authority

The Library Authority received first place for its long-standing commitment to diverse activities and recognition of internationalization as a catalyst for professional learning, development, and innovation.

 

 

One standout initiative is the International Partner Week, which brings together librarians from around the world for collaborative workshops and discussions. This program enhances professional knowledge and strengthens the University's international ties at the administrative level. Additionally, University librarians actively participate in international training sessions with strategic partner institutions and host colleagues from abroad through the Erasmus+ program and other individual frameworks.

 

A notable achievement is the establishment of an international book community in collaboration with The Hebrew University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This community fosters cross-cultural exchange and collaboration, further illustrating the Library Authority's commitment to promoting internationalization. The committee applauded the substantial investment in these initiatives and the remarkable outcomes they have achieved, making the Library Authority a deserving recipient of this year's top honor.

 

Celebrating Internationalization at Hebrew University

The International Excellence Award underscores Hebrew University's commitment to advancing internationalization in teaching and campus activities. This year's winners exemplify the innovative and impactful initiatives that contribute to the University's global mission. By recognizing these achievements, the International Office aims to inspire continued efforts in promoting internationalization and enriching the academic experience for all students.

 

"As we celebrate these outstanding contributions, we anticipate further strides in academic internationalization at Hebrew University," said Prof. Oron Shagrir. "Our institution remains dedicated to fostering global education and collaboration, ensuring our leadership in the global academic community."

 

 

In these challenging times, Hebrew University of Jerusalem remains dedicated to our mission of building a better future through education and research. We extend our sincere gratitude to friends and partners worldwide who have shown unwavering solidarity during these difficult times. Together, we will overcome the challenges we face, and our joint pursuit of knowledge remains steadfast.