We are pleased to share the first interview in the series A Legacy of Devotion: the UK’s Lifelong Bond with the Hebrew University. Each month, we reconnect with a dedicated supporter, exploring what inspired their connection to the University and how they continue to be part of its story.
Sixty years ago, Carole Berman’s family, who had a deep interest in farming in England, was first introduced to the pioneering work of the Hebrew University through a mutual acquaintance, Raanan Weitz. A prominent leader in Israeli settlement development, Weitz served in the 1960s as Chairman of the Agricultural Research Institute in Rehovot, which later evolved into the Hebrew University’s Faculty of Agriculture.
Over time, Carole’s grandfather, Michael Kennedy Leigh, became a passionate supporter of the University, passing down a legacy of dedication to the next generations. Today, Carole, an artist based in Hampstead and a Governor of the Hebrew University as well as the Co-Chair of the trustees of The Kennedy Leigh Charitable Trust together with her sister Angela Sorkin, reflects on the enduring bond her family has shared with the Hebrew University, the inspiring projects that have left a lasting impact and her aspirations for the University’s future.
Michael Kennedy Leigh in his study, 1989
Could you tell us a little about your grandfather Michael Kennedy Leigh and his long-standing connection with the Hebrew University?
Gerald Leigh at Eden Hall Farm, 2002
My grandfather Michael Kennedy Leigh had been the owner of a farm many years before founding the Kennedy Leigh Charitable Trust in the mid-1960s. At age sixteen, he had volunteered as a Baden Powell pioneer breaking in wild horses on a farm in Australia. Although he became a successful property developer, he retained his interest in horses and farming throughout his life which married well with his love of agricultural projects in Israel. His son (and my uncle), Gerald Leigh, continued to be a strong supporter of the Hebrew University also with an interest in agricultural research. He worked hands on in his stud farm, Eydon Hall Farm in Northamptonshire where he bred racehorses.
I believe our relationship with the Hebrew University initially came about through my family’s friendship with Ranaan Weitz from the Ministry of Agriculture and my grandfather’s admiration for the research work he was doing in farming and in Rehovot itself.
What was your first experience with the Hebrew University, and how did it shape your ongoing involvement with it?
My first visit to the Hebrew University was 52 years ago, for the inauguration of the Kennedy Leigh Agricultural Library in Rehovot. It was an inspiring and formative experience that has developed into a long-lasting relationship with the University.
Adelaide and Michael Kennedy Leigh looking at the plans for the new Library Building with Mr. Eliyah Honig and Mr. David Reznik, the architect and also family friend 1969
Beyond the Rehovot Campus, which holds a special connection to your family, is there another place on one of the other campuses that stands out to you?
I don’t think there are many more beautiful and awe-inspiring places than the Har Hatzofim (Mount Scopus) campus. To be able to see the Old City walls of Jerusalem and the Dome of the Rock from one aspect, and from another, the Dead Sea, you are breathing in eons of the earth’s history and the spirituality of the Bible. Where else would you want to be at university?
In your view, what are some of the most impactful ways the Hebrew University has contributed to global challenges?
The Hebrew University has made some far reaching and innovative discoveries to benefit the world, for example, the University’s role in tackling water and food shortages. Their scientific and technological research has produced drip irrigation and wastewater treatment for agriculture, as well as recycling water for drinking and domestic use—methods that are now used globally as the world population has increased and natural resources have depleted.
Among some of the extraordinary inventions, the Hebrew University has pioneered a method of research to supplement mothers’ milk in undernourished babies with chickpea formula, which provides a high source of protein. They’ve also enhanced functional foods to provide more vitamins and omega-3. Through research at the Faculty of Agriculture in Rehovot, they’ve discovered ways to mitigate the negative effects of pesticides, which have been damaging to bees, wildlife and humans, finding environmentally friendly ways to deal with pests and significantly improving crop yields.
What aspects of the University’s academic culture stand out to you?
There is a serious sense of purpose in the workspaces, but equally, a genuine sense of well-being. There appears to be a generosity of spirit and mutual respect among the professors and their teaching colleagues that somehow seems to transmit and filter through to the students. Israeli students seem more mature in age and attitude than those at other universities, with a strong feeling that each department works as a team. This competitive spirit is focused on achieving the highest levels of research in each department, rather than on personal or egotistical goals.
Looking back on the past year, what are your thoughts on the challenges the Hebrew University community has faced and how it has responded?
My deep admiration for the University has only grown since October 7th. I am in awe at the love, compassion, tireless dedication, brilliance, resourcefulness and humility of President Asher Cohen, extending to the president’s office, the professors and the students. Every one of the dedicated University’s team has put their heart and soul into the act of Tikkun Olam. They have begun by addressing the immediate needs of the students, many of whom, as well as professors and teaching staff, have had to go to the front and disrupt their lives. Many have been traumatised. Beyond the students’ needs, the University is trying to initiate incentives to help educate colleges and cultivate resilience, as well as food and sustenance in war-affected areas.
What are your hopes for the future development of the Hebrew University, particularly in terms of its inclusivity and growth?
I would like to see the University progressing in just the way it is, keeping at the forefront of cutting-edge medical and scientific research, as well as making remarkable strides in the study of the humanities. I hope the University will sustain its extraordinary inclusiveness and heterogeneity. It is so good to see religious and secular Jews, and Arabs studying together, as well as a range of people from all around the world. I hope the University will continue to provide open spaces for students to contemplate and exchange ideas, as they do now.
Looking ahead, how do you see the Hebrew University’s role evolving?
To my mind, the Hebrew University is the most humane and inspiring place in the world. May the efforts of Tikkun Olam succeed in bringing about a better and transformed world where there is more tolerance, multiculturalism and integration.
Carole Berman (right) being conferred an Honorary Fellow at the Hebrew University next to her sister Angela Sorkin, 2016
Top photo: Unveiling of Library Building by Adelaide Kennedy Leigh, with family members, Carole Berman, Angela Sorkin, Michael Kennedy Leigh, Lesley Berman and Gerald Leigh