JERUSALEM, April 26, 2020 – Seven outstanding Olim (immigrants to Israel) from English-speaking countries have been awarded the 2020 Sylvan Adams Nefesh B’Nefesh Bonei Zion Prize.  The prize recognizes outstanding Anglo Olim who have helped Israel in a meaningful way by encapsulating the spirit of modern-day Zionism who have made a major contribution to the State of Israel. The award for Global Impact was bestowed to Ambassador Dore Gold, president of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, for his outstanding contributions to the welfare of the State of Israel.

This year’s prizes, announced today, are sponsored by Sylvan Adams, a Nefesh B’Nefesh Oleh, real estate developer and philanthropist who is committed to developing the State of Israel. Sylvan is steadfast in his goal of showcasing the impact and achievement of Israel and Israelis to the world, viewing the Bonei Zion Prize as an integral piece of this mission.

“As we are all grappling with so much national and global turmoil, it feels especially meaningful to pause and recognize these incredible Olim surrounding Israel’s 72nd birthday,” said Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, Nefesh B’Nefesh Co-Founder and Executive Director. “The individuals receiving this year’s Bonei Zion Prize are shining examples of the impact one can have on an entire field of study and practice, and they give us great hope for the State of Israel. Celebrating these honorees is a reminder that the Zionist dream is thriving.” Hundreds of Olim from English-speaking countries – including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, UK, and USA – were nominated for the prize. The prize recognizes outstanding Anglo Olim who have helped Israel in a meaningful way by encapsulating the spirit of modern-day Zionism and contributing in significant ways towards the State of Israel. Recipients were chosen by a prestigious panel of committee members in the following categories: Science & Medicine; Community & Non-Profit; Education; Global Impact; Culture, Art & Sports and Young Leadership.

Ambassador Dore Gold is President of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs. He served as Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations in 1997-1999, and as the Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2015-2016. In that capacity he was instrumental in expanding Israel’s ties in Africa, the Arab world, and Far East. He has served as an adviser on international issues to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and as an envoy to the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, Jordan, and the Gulf states. Gold has a BA, MA, and PhD from Columbia University.

As a senior diplomat and recognized scholar, Gold is regularly called upon to share his expertise. He delivered testimony as the US House of Representatives for special Congressional hearings on recognizing Israeli sovereignty on the Golan Heights (2018); moving the American Embassy to Jerusalem (2017); and before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Israel’s rights to defensible borders (2011). In 2009, He debated Justice Richard Goldstone on the veracity of the UN Fact-finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict. 

He has written books on the Middle East, including three New York Times bestsellers, and his articles appear in major international publications.

Ambassador Gold made Aliyah in 1980 from West Hartford Connecticut. He served in the Israel Defense Forces.