Dr. Michael Dan, , humanitarian, peace activist and philanthropist, received the University of Haifaís highest accolade, the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Honoris Causa at a ìPartners for Peaceî Tribute Dinner at the Fairmont Royal York hotel in Toronto.
[More photos below]
The degree was conferred in recognition of Dr. Danís deep commitment to human rights, the advancement of mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence in the Middle East; his philanthropic activities in Canada and Israel, and his friendship and support for the University of Haifa. A major benefactor of the University of Haifa and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Michael is a member of the Board of Directors of Canadian Friends of Haifa University.
Dr. Dan comes from a very diverse background that includes neurosurgery, biotechnology, and organic farming. Currently, Michael is working with Canadaís First Nations to develop hydroelectric power and other sustainable energy projects.
The ìPartners for Peaceî Dinner, orchestrated and hosted by Canadian Friends of Haifa University, attracted more than 500 guests to pay tribute to Dr. Michael Dan. Amongst them were Chairman of the University of Haifa Board of Governors Mr. Leon H. Charney, Chairman of the Universityís Executive Committee Dr. Yossi Bachar and Vice President for External Affairs Mr. Amos Gaver. President of the University of Haifa, Prof. Aaron Ben-Zeíev and Rector Prof. Yossi Ben-Artzi conferred the honorary degree. Dinner Co-Chairs, Harold Niman and Susan Wowk, led the fundraising campaign, together with Canadian Friends of Haifa University President, Dr. Karen Mock; and board members, Elham Farah and Marvin Sadowski.
Edward Greenspan, Q.C. was the emcee for the evening and Prof. Irwin Cotler was the Honorary Dinner Chair. David Buchbinder and ensemble played during dinner and the evening ended with a spectacular North American dÈbut performance by Israelís leading international concert and recording artist Noa (Achinoam Nini) and Mira Anwar Awad, the Jewish-Arab singing duo who represented Israel in this yearís Eurovision Song Contest.
Proceeds from the event are to support the University of Haifaís recently established ìPeace and Conflict Management Studies programî, which will nurture a new generation of leaders with the ability to promote more effective and peaceful approaches to conflict resolution.
Photos by Jo-Anne McArthur
No comments:
Post a Comment