New 'Women's Scholarship Fund' Unveiled as Female Philanthropists Convene in New York

Over 50 female philanthropists came together at New York’s Lotus Club last week for the first-ever Women in Philanthropy Series, unveiling the American Society of University of Haifa’s new Women’s Scholarship Fund. Initiated for women by women, the scholarship seeks to support female students at all levels of study, and aims to build momentum and participation from female philanthropists across the spectrum.

Influential female donors and leaders convened for an intimate conversation with renowned philanthropist Lady Irene Hatter on the critical issues shaping modern day philanthropy and the crucial role education plays in shaping tomorrow’s leaders. Education, not for an elite but for youngsters from multicultural origins who strive for a better life, has been the touchstone of Lady Irene and her husband, Sir Maurice’s philanthropy in Israel and in the UK, which has been recognized with knighthood.

“Philanthropy is not just about money; it can be about time too. Pick something that is important to you, then do and try to see how you are making a difference,” said Lady Hatter. “We are very committed to education. Education is the key to everything. It is something that you can’t take away and if you give someone an education, it will enable them to help themselves for the rest of their life.”

The newly unveiled Women’s Scholarship Fund aims to garner the support and participation of women across the U.S. who have an interest in creating a significant philanthropic footprint. Not only do women control 51% ($14 trillion) of personal wealth in the U.S., and hold almost 52% of all management and professional level jobs, it’s also a demographic that continues to experience increasing ratios of higher education and academic degrees.

“Education is critical to improving lives and communities. Nowhere is that transformative power more evident than at University of Haifa,” said Karen Berman, CEO of the American Society of University of Haifa. “Our graduates are the next generation of entrepreneurs, lawyers, teachers, medical professionals, political leaders, academics and scientists whose work and discoveries are impacting the world. Our new Women in Philanthropy initiative is establishing a special scholarship fund to enable more women to have access to the university education that is critical to their success and the success of the State of Israel.”

The University of Haifa is scaling new heights in areas critical to the growth, expansion, and security of Israel. In addition to advancing medical research, developing national security strategy, defining the field of cyber law, addressing global environmental concerns, uncovering archaeological treasures and expanding access to creative and performing arts, advancing women's education seeks to create widespread change and generate a ripple effect throughout families and communities.