Bob Geldof Awarded Honorary Degree from Ben Gurion University
Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
Image by Wikicommons
Ben Gurion University of the Negev chose today to announce that Geldof is to receive an honorary doctorate at its Annual Board of Governors Meeting in May.
Geldof, former lead singer of the Boomtown Rats, is a well-known campaigner and activist against poverty. In 1985 he staged the Live Aid concert. In 2005 he organized the Live 8 rock concerts to raise awareness of world poverty and raise money to alleviate poverty in Africa. These concerts took place simultaneously in London, Paris, Philadelphia, Rome and Berlin, with the participation of top musicians from around the world.
“The award is being given in honor of his successful musical career and his activities to bring the world’s attention to the famine in Africa and commitment to raise funds to alleviate it,” said a Ben Gurion University statement explaining why it chose Geldof.
While in Israel Geldof will participate in the conference “Israel in Africa – Past, Present and Future,” organized by IsraAID-The Israel Forum for International Humanitarian Aid.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
