At its 2026 Honorary Degrees Ceremony, TAU celebrated eight distinguished honorees, including hostage advocate Einav Zangauker, American philanthropists Jon and Mindy Gray, and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

An evening of inspiration, gratitude and powerful reunions marked Tel Aviv University’s 2026 Honorary Degrees Ceremony, held at the Smolarz Auditorium as part of the University’s 70th anniversary celebrations and Board of Governors meeting. Distinguished scientists, philanthropists, artists and educators from Israel and around the world were honored for their contributions to society, alongside two individuals whose efforts to bring Israel’s hostages home have left a profound mark on the country.

A Mother’s Fight, a Nation’s Struggle

One of the evening’s most moving moments came when former hostage Matan Zangauker presented an honorary doctorate to his mother, Einav Zangauker, recognizing her extraordinary courage and relentless campaign for the return of the hostages.

Left to right: Prof. Ariel Porat, Matan Zangauker, Einav Zangauker, Ilana Gritzewsky & Prof. Noga Kornfeld-Shor (Photo credit: Chen Galili)

When Matan was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023, Einav was a private citizen. Over the following two years, she became one of Israel’s most recognizable grassroots leaders, mobilizing tens of thousands and giving voice to families fighting for their loved ones. Even after Matan’s return in October 2025, she continued advocating for those still held in Gaza.

The University also awarded the prestigious George S. Wise Medal to U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff for his pivotal role in diplomatic efforts to secure the hostages’ release, his commitment to dialogue and conflict resolution, and his solidarity with Israel and the hostage families.

In another emotional moment, former hostages Edan Alexander and Omri Miran presented the medal to Witkoff’s son, Alex, who accepted the honor on his father’s behalf.

Left to right: Edan Alexander, Prof. Ariel Porat, Alex Witkoff, Dafna Meitar Nechmad and Omri Miran (photo credit: Chen Galili)

Celebrating Generosity and Scientific Excellence

American philanthropists Jon and Mindy Gray, co-founders of the Gray Foundation, received honorary doctorates for their transformative support of cancer research, healthcare, education and social welfare. In 2025, the couple made the largest donation in TAU’s history, endowing the University’s Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Their philanthropy and steadfast commitment to Israel and the Jewish people have helped advance research and expand opportunities for future generations.

Two internationally acclaimed Israeli scientists were also honored for discoveries that have reshaped modern technology.

Prof. Michal Lipson, a physicist and engineer at Columbia University, is a pioneer of silicon photonics, a field that uses light to transmit and process information. Her groundbreaking research has helped pave the way for faster communications and more energy-efficient computing. A member of both the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering, she holds more than 45 patents.

Prof. Joanna Aizenberg of Harvard University was recognized for her pioneering work in biomimicry and advanced materials. Drawing inspiration from nature’s remarkable designs, she has developed innovative materials with applications across science and engineering. The University also celebrated her longstanding collaborations with Israeli researchers, including those at TAU.

The Power of Music, Poetry and Education

The evening also paid tribute to cultural figures whose work has touched generations and crossed national boundaries.

Legendary French singer-songwriter Enrico Macias received an honorary doctorate for more than six decades of music blending Andalusian, North African and French traditions. His songs have brought cultures together, while his longstanding support for Israel has made him a cherished figure among audiences worldwide.

Celebrated Israeli poet and lyricist Rachel Shapira was honored for her extraordinary contribution to Israeli culture. Over more than half a century, she has written hundreds of songs that have become part of the country’s collective memory, giving poetic expression to love, loss, hope and everyday life.
Nina Avidar Weiner, Israeli-American educator and philanthropist, received an honorary doctorate for her lifelong commitment to making higher education accessible to talented young Israelis from underserved communities. As co-founder of the Israel Scholarship Education Foundation (ISEF), established in 1977 with Edmond and Lily Safra, she has helped thousands of students pursue academic opportunities and become leaders in their fields.

Seventy Years of Impact—and the People Behind It

Held during Tel Aviv University’s milestone 70th anniversary year, the ceremony reflected the breadth of the University’s mission: advancing scientific discovery, nurturing culture, expanding opportunity and recognizing those who make a difference in the world.
From pioneering scientists and visionary philanthropists to artists who shape national identity and individuals whose courage inspires an entire country, the honorees embodied the values of excellence, humanity and service that have guided TAU for seven decades.