Reichman University Wins Israel Defense Minister's Shield for 2026 for Reservist Support

Reichman University has been awarded the Israel Defense Minister's Shield for 2026, a prestigious recognition given annually to employers, higher education institutions, and local authorities that provide significant and ongoing support to reservists and their families. The university was selected following recommendations from reservists studying and working there, as well as their spouses, highlighting the institution's supportive environment.

The award process involved reviewing over 1,000 nominations, with 99 finalists evaluated on criteria including the proportion of reservists in the organization, the extent of assistance to reservists and their families, workplace and academic flexibility, welfare initiatives, and organizational policies encouraging reserve service. The evaluation also included interviews with recommenders and consultations with the Ministry of Defense and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

The selection committee, chaired by Il Hanes, head of the Ministry of Defense's Released Soldiers and Reservists Division, convened on July 16, 2026. The panel included senior representatives from the IDF, Ministry of Defense, Council for Higher Education, National Insurance Institute, local government, business sector, and labor union. Out of all candidates, only 22 recipients were chosen, including Reichman University.

In a letter to the university president, Prof. Boaz Ganor, the Ministry of Defense emphasized the importance of sustained policies rather than one-time gestures, praising Reichman University for being a stable home and support system for reservists and their families during repeated call-ups. The letter quoted David Ben-Gurion, underscoring the collective responsibility in national defense. The Ministry expressed gratitude for the university's commitment and partnership in supporting reservists throughout their service periods.