Edited by: Fern Sidman

In a monumental act of philanthropy, an anonymous Columbia University alumnus has donated an unprecedented $260 million to Bar-Ilan University, one of Israel’s leading public research institutions, as was reported by The New York Post on Monday. This generous donation, revealed by Bar-Ilan University, has sparked widespread speculation and discussion within academic and philanthropic circles.

Described as a “North American Jew and graduate of Columbia University who was active in World War II,” the anonymous donor’s identity remains a mystery. His motivations, however, have been partially illuminated by statements from Bar-Ilan University and reactions from various stakeholders. According to the information provided in The Post report, the donor, now approximately 100 years old, chose to redirect his immense wealth towards Bar-Ilan University due to its perceived capability to enhance Israel’s science-based technological resilience. This act of generosity is seen as a strategic investment in the future of Israel’s scientific and technological advancements.

The timing and nature of the donation have led many to speculate that the benefactor’s decision was influenced by recent anti-Israel and anti-Semitic protests at Columbia University, especially in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, as per the information contained in The Post report. These demonstrations have stirred significant controversy and discomfort among Jewish alumni and supporters of Israel. As per The Post, Hank Sheinkopf, a prominent political consultant, pro-Israel activist, and rabbi, characterized the donation as a “smack in the face” to Columbia University, suggesting it might be the start of a broader trend among disillusioned alumni.

Bar-Ilan University, located in Ramat Gan, Israel, is poised to benefit immensely from this donation. Known for its strong emphasis on integrating Jewish values with scientific research and education, the university has a history of contributing significantly to Israel’s academic and technological landscape, as was indicated in The Post report. The $260 million endowment will likely accelerate research, development, and innovation across various scientific disciplines, bolstering Israel’s position as a global leader in technology and science.

The announcement of this extraordinary donation was first reported by e-JewishPhilanthropy.com and has since captured the attention of numerous media outlets. The story has ignited a guessing game regarding the identity of the donor, with the only concrete clue being his advanced age and World War II service, so said the report in The Post.

Bar-Ilan University President Arie Zaban lauded the anonymous benefactor as a man of broad academic education who deeply understands the importance of science and technology in shaping a nation’s future. The Post report noted that during his numerous visits to Israel, the donor observed firsthand the significant strides Bar-Ilan University has made in key scientific areas. He recognized the university’s robust science-based infrastructure and its extensive connections across all sectors of Israeli society as vital components in driving technological innovation.

The unprecedented $260 million donation is earmarked for the advancement of “deep tech” sciences at Bar-Ilan University. Deep tech, which includes disciplines such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and advanced materials, represents the cutting edge of technological innovation, The Post report revealed. This investment is expected to not only bolster Israel’s scientific capabilities but also potentially influence global technological advancements.

President Zaban emphasized the transformative potential of this gift, stating that it will “positively influence the future of Israel and humanity,” as was noted by The Post. By channeling funds into pioneering scientific research, the university aims to make significant contributions that extend beyond national borders.