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Lawrence, NY — In conjunction with its milestone 60th anniversary, Bar-Ilan University (BIU) in Israel has established a new Presidential Award of Distinction. Among the inaugural group of recipients are two New Yorkers — Eli Hirmes, who resides in both Lawrence, NY and Bal Harbour, Florida; and Dr. Don Lebell, of New York, NY.

In congratulating Eli and Don, Rabbi Prof. Daniel Hershkowitz, President of BIU, said, “I am delighted that the University is recognizing the impressive contributions of these individuals, who share a profound commitment to the mission of Bar-Ilan and have demonstrated inspirational communal leadership and generosity. In addition, they all appreciate the importance of higher education in shaping the Jewish future. They share with us an abiding love for Israel and the Zionist values upon which it was built.”

Eli Hirmes’ long-time support for Bar-Ilan University has been driven by the mutual core values he shares with the University — a love of Judaism and Zionism. Eli and his wife, Greta, have been exemplary supporters of BIU for many years – annually providing scholarships for students at The Ludwig and Erica Jesselson Institute of Advance Torah Studies, often called “The Machon.” The Hirmes have sponsored a classroom in the Midrasha in memory of Greta’s parents. A long-time Board member of the American Friends of Bar- Ilan University, Eli has also played a pivotal role in securing major gifts for the University. Among the other causes the Hirmes support are the HAFTR School, Yeshiva University, Congregation Beth Sholom in Lawrence, NY, and Emunah of America. Eli is a past chairman of The Five Towns Jewish Council. In his professional career, he was a successful CPA.

A multifaceted humanist, Don Lebell’s early life was shaped by World War II. He served as a Naval Officer during the War. After earning his PhD in Systems Engineering from UCLA, Don went on to serve as USC’s University Research Coordinator and adjunct professor of Engineering and Management before launching his successful consulting firm. Don is the author of three books, most recently, Weapons of Mass Survival. He now provides pro-bono consulting for non-profits concerned with weapons proliferation, anti-Semitism, and education challenges. At Bar-Ilan University, Dr. Lebell advances doctoral scholarships and strategies for self-sustaining growth of science, medicine and the liberal arts. He is married to Jane Stern Lebell, Honorary President of the American Friends of Bar-Ilan University (AFBIU).

All the recipients, including four other Americans, will be presented with the Award at the opening ceremony of BIU’s 60th Anniversary Mission and Board of Trustees Gala Dinner taking place on May 14th in Jerusalem.

To learn more about the Bar-Ilan projects being supported by the Presidential Award winners, call Howard Charish, Chief Development Officer of the American Friends of Bar-Ilan University, at 212-906-3900 or email howard.charish@afbiu.org.

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