TORONTO, Canada (Press Release)–Dr. Michael Dan, president of Toronto-based Regulus Investments Inc. and Gemini Power Corp., human rights and peace activist, received the University of Haifa’s highest accolade, the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Honoris Causa at a “Partners for Peace” Tribute Dinner at the Fairmont Royal York hotel in Toronto last week.
The degree was conferred in recognition of Dr. Dan’s deep commitment to human rights, the advancement of mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence in the Middle East; his philanthropic activities in Canada and Israel, and his friendship and support for the University of Haifa. A major benefactor of the University of Haifa and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Michael is a member of the Board of Directors of Canadian Friends of Haifa University.
Dr. Dan comes from a very diverse background that includes neurosurgery, biotechnology, and organic farming. Currently, he is working with Canada’s First Nations to develop hydroelectric power and other sustainable energy projects.
The “Partners for Peace” Dinner, orchestrated and hosted by Canadian Friends of Haifa University, attracted more than 500 guests to pay tribute to Dr. Michael Dan. Amongst them were Chairman of the University of Haifa Board of Governors Mr. Leon H. Charney, Chairman of the University’s Executive Committee Dr. Yossi Bachar and Vice President for External Affairs Mr. Amos Gaver. President of the University of Haifa, Prof. Aaron Ben-Ze’ev and Rector Prof. Yossi Ben-Artzi conferred the honorary degree. Dinner Co-Chairs, Harold Niman and Susan Wowk, led the fundraising campaign, together with Canadian Friends of Haifa University President, Dr. Karen Mock; and board members, Elham Farah and Marvin Sadowski.
Edward Greenspan, Q.C. was the emcee for the evening and Prof. Irwin Cotler was the Honorary Dinner Chair. David Buchbinder and ensemble played during dinner and the evening ended with a spectacular North American début performance by Israel’s leading international concert and recording artist Noa (Achinoam Nini) and Mira Anwar Awad, the Jewish-Arab singing duo who represented Israel in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
Proceeds from the event are to support the University of Haifa’s recently established “Peace and Conflict Management Studies program”, which will nurture a new generation of leaders with the ability to promote more effective and peaceful approaches to conflict resolution.
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Preceding provided by University of Haifa