The British Friends of the Hebrew University, Trustees, Patrons and the professional team, express deepest sorrow on the passing of Lord Rothschild z”l, a towering figure in many fields including generous philanthropy in the UK and Israel, among them the Hebrew University.
May his memory be for a blessing.
Lord Rothschild, a guardian of a long philanthropic tradition that began during the time of Baron Edmond de Rothschild (“the well-known benefactor”), was a man of vision and realisation. In addition to being a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Lord Rothschild supported and promoted art and culture. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem as well as an Honorary Fellowship from the Israel Museum and the Municipality of Jerusalem.
Lord Rothschild’s generosity and groundbreaking thinking led to the establishment of numerous public institutions and the promotion of innovative initiatives in Israeli society. These efforts strengthened research, innovation and culture, advancing the State of Israel in various aspects.
The Rothschild family said: “Our father Jacob was a towering presence in many people’s lives – a superbly accomplished financier, a champion of the arts and culture, a devoted public servant, a passionate supporter of charitable causes in Israel and and Jewish culture, a keen environmentalist and much-loved friend, father and grandfather.
May his memory and the fruits of his philanthropic endeavours in Israel, among them the Supreme Court Building, the Open University, Ramat Hanadiv and the National Library be a blessing for his family and may his legacy live on for generations in the work of Yad Hanadiv.