By McGill Reporter Staff
Principal Heather Munroe-Blum received the prestigious Scopus Award from the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University at a gala in Montreal Monday night. The Award, which recognizes individuals or associations who have excelled in their respective fields and whose humanitarian endeavors and outstanding commitment contributed to the betterment of society, is the highest honour that can be granted by a Friends organization. The gala also served as an opportunity to announce that more than $1.5 million has been raised in support of joint academic projects between Hebrew University and McGill.
“I am truly honoured to have been recognized in this meaningful way by the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University,” Munroe-Blum said. “McGill’s internationalism and expanding network of global collaborations are accomplishments of which I am particularly proud, and our landmark research, teaching and student exchange projects with Hebrew University are a signature example of the profound contributions universities can make when we join forces and share strengths.”
Th funds raised will support collaborative projects in four areas: medicine and epigenetics; human-rights law; international business; and food safety and water management. These include joint research initiatives, student and faculty exchanges between the two universities, and summer programs alternating between the two institutions. The fundraising effort is a part of Campaign McGill.
“Heather Munroe-Blum was the perfect choice for the Scopus Award, and we bestowed it upon her with gratitude and pleasure,” said Monette Malewski, President of the Montreal Chapter of the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University. “Her work in strengthening ties between Canada and Israel, and between McGill and Hebrew University – our nations’ leading scholarly institutions – has been exemplary. The funds we have raised so far will ensure that our two great universities can continue to build bridges across borders, and can contribute to making innovative discoveries and nurturing a new generation of engaged global citizens.”