Meet CFHU’s 2025-2026 Scholarship Recipients
CFHU Scholarships – Generosity in Action
Supporting Canada’s Upcoming Leaders
The Hebrew University is Israel’s leading academic institution, continuously rising in the World University Rankings, and recognized for outstanding research and academic output. The Canadian Friends of HU are grateful to our many donors, whose steadfast generosity enables us to offer financial support to qualified students from every Province, wanting to study at the University.
With the recent addition of an all-English BA, and opportunities to pursue advanced degrees in English, studying at the Hebrew University has never been easier. Increasingly, students, who in many cases have encountered ongoing incidents of antisemitism on Canadian campuses, are opting to join the Hebrew University, which from its founding 100 years ago has dedicated itself to promoting a culture of respectful coexistence where diversity is celebrated and Jewish Students can feel proud and safe to be Zionist.
This year we are proud to highlight six outstanding students and the donors who helped make their dream of studying at the Hebrew University, unimpeded by financial constraints, a reality.
Their experience confirms that when we invest in bringing Canadian students to Israel and the Hebrew University, we are strengthening the foundations for a stronger, more resilient Jewish community, and community at large.
SHIRA STOLZMAN
Ottawa
The Asper Student Scholarship
“Being accepted to Hebrew University is a dream come true,” says Shira, who begins her bachelor’s degree in English and Liberal Arts this fall at HUJI’s Rothberg International School.
As the Student Engagement & Advocacy Coordinator for Hillel Ottawa, Shira has seen firsthand the increasing pressures faced by Jewish students on Canadian campuses. She chose Jerusalem for both its spiritual vibrancy and academic rigour, with plans to concentrate in Jewish Studies and pursue a career in education and the non-profit world.
“I am deeply aware of the value of this opportunity and plan to make the most of what Rothberg has to offer.”
AHUVA HABASHUSH
Montreal
The Asper Student Scholarship
Ahuva is working towards her degree in Social Work, focusing on the practice of cultural awareness in providing faith-sensitive care. This fall, she will attend the Undergraduate Study Abroad Program at Rothberg.
“This scholarship alleviates some of my financial challenges and brings me one step closer to my vision. With your support, I am even more determined to serve others and strengthen our community.”
LIOR MARKUS
Toronto
The Allen Zysblat Memorial Scholarship and The Dvori Balshine Scholarship
Each award is a stand-alone scholarship that provides meaningful assistance to our students.
Recently graduated from high school, Lior is heading to Rothberg International to participate in the Freshman/Academic Gap Program. With aspirations of becoming a lawyer and international policy leader, he is determined to use his education as a platform for advocacy.
“This is more than an education—it is a mission. Thanks to the scholarships, I can take a step closer to realizing my goals and giving back to the community that has supported me.”
MIRIAM HEITIN
Ottawa
The Jesse Benuditz Blessed & Breezy Memorial Scholarship and The Bernard and Elinore Persiko Merit Student Scholarship
A graduate of the University of Ottawa with a degree in Conflict Studies and Human Rights, Miriam served as President of Hillel for two years. This fall she will be pursuing an M.A. in Conflict Research, Management and Resolution at HUJI’s Swiss Center.
“Hebrew University’s academic rigour and its location in Jerusalem make it the ideal place to explore how social media and disinformation influence peace and conflict in today’s world. Without this scholarship, none of this would be possible. I am forever grateful.”
ELIANE GOLDSTEIN
Montreal
The Bernard and Elinore Persiko Merit Student Scholarship
Inspired by relatives who described studying at Rothberg as ‘life changing,’ a then eight-year-old Eliane decided she too would study at Hebrew University. A recent honours graduate of Westmount High School, she will join the Freshman/Academic Gap Program before continuing her studies at McGill University.
“This scholarship means the world to me. I am so grateful for the chance to study in Israel, be near my family, and take one step closer to making a real difference.”
CHAIM SHPILER
Toronto
CFHU Student Scholarship Fund
Chaim immigrated from Israel to Canada in 2018. He is a respected and dedicated Hebrew and Jewish Studies teacher at Bialik Hebrew Day School. This fall, he begins an online M.A. in Education (Blended Learning, specializing in Jewish Education) through HUJI’s Melton Centre. The program includes a two-week in-person session in Jerusalem in 2026.
“Your generosity will ease my financial burden, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and professional growth. At a time when Jews around the world face growing challenges and uncertainty, your support is especially meaningful. It is an inspiring reminder that we are stronger together committed to the continuity and resilience of Jewish life and learning.”
Inspired to Make a Difference? Please contact Esther Schlesinger, CFHU’s Manager of Scholarships and Alumni at esthers@cfhu.org.
Support our scholarships today by clicking here or scanning the QR code below!
