Reichman University awarded the Minister of Defense Shield for 2026
As part of the examination, conversations were held with recommenders and checks were conducted with bodies in the Ministry of Defense and the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission. The Ministry of Defense thanked the university for its support of reservists.
Reichman University has been selected to receive the Minister of Defense Shield for 2026, a mark of recognition awarded to employers, higher education institutions, and local authorities that act significantly and continuously for the benefit of reservists and their families.
In a letter sent to the university president, Prof. Boaz Ganor, it was stated that the choice of the university was made following recommendations submitted by reservists who study and work there, as well as their spouses.
"It is important for us that you know that your candidacy was submitted by your people — the reservists in your ranks and their spouses. They are the ones who sat and wrote, in their own words, why you specifically are worthy of this award," the letter stated.
The Minister of Defense Shield is awarded annually to bodies that stand out in their activities for the reserve system, including creating a supportive work or study environment, flexibility for service members and their families, welfare and recognition initiatives, and support during extended periods of service.
According to the Ministry of Defense, more than 1,000 recommendations were received this year, from which 99 bodies reached the final stage. Each candidacy was examined according to a series of parameters, including the rate of reservists in the organization, the scope of assistance to them and their families, employment and academic flexibility, support and recognition initiatives, and organizational policy encouraging reserve service.
As part of the examination, conversations were held with recommenders and checks were conducted with bodies in the Ministry of Defense and the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission. The ministry emphasized that they sought to identify not one-time gestures, but a structured and continuous policy that includes procedures, dedicated personnel, and a support envelope over time.
The Minister of Defense Shield Award Committee convened on July 16, 2026, chaired by the head of the Department of Released Soldiers and Reservists at the Ministry of Defense, Eyal Hans. The discussions were also attended by the Chief Reserve Officer, Brig. Gen. Beni Ben Ari, and senior representatives from the IDF, the Ministry of Defense, the Council for Higher Education, the National Institute for Technological Training, the National Insurance Institute, local government, the business sector, and the Histadrut. At the end of the discussions, the committee chose only 22 winners, including Reichman University.
"Building the country and defending it is not a task for chosen individuals, but a mission placed on everyone's shoulders, out of true partnership and shared bearing of the heavy burden," the letter stated, quoting the words of David Ben-Gurion.
The university was further told: "In a period when reservists were required to go out again and again, you were for them and their families a home, a backbone, and peace of mind — thanks to you, they were able to serve with a quiet mind."
The Ministry of Defense thanked the university for its support of reservists and added: "This win belongs first of all to the people who wrote about you, and to you. Thank you for the partnership, thank you for the commitment, and thank you for the choice to be there along the way."
