The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and its Faculty of Medicine proudly congratulate Prof. Avraham (Avi) Rivkind on being awarded the Israel Prize in the category of Lifetime Achievement – Special Contribution to Society and the State.
Prof. Rivkind, a graduate of the Faculty of Medicine and a longtime member of its academic staff, received the award in recognition of his decades-long leadership in advancing trauma care in Israel. His work includes the establishment and development of the national trauma system, as well as the trauma center at Hadassah–Ein Kerem Medical Center.
The Israel Prize committee noted that Prof. Rivkind is a pioneer in developing innovative approaches and medical tools that save lives. The committee emphasized that Prof. Rivkind initiated and established a comprehensive, life-saving trauma system, both in the field and in hospitals, that serves as a model and source of inspiration in Israel and around the world. As a physician and researcher, he has educated generations of doctors, students, medics, and paramedics specializing in trauma medicine. The committee also noted that he embodies the values of the sanctity of life and a deep commitment to humanity.
Prof. Eli Pikarsky, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine: “It is a great honor to celebrate Prof. Avi Rivkind’s extraordinary achievements. His work has endowed us with knowledge, vision, and a deep commitment to doing good and changing reality for the better. He has touched countless lives, both through the patients he has saved and the generations he has trained. On behalf of the entire Faculty of Medicine, I offer my heartfelt congratulations and thanks, and wish him continued success for many years to come.”
Prof. Oron Shagrir, Rector of the Hebrew University, said: “We take immense pride in Prof. Avi Rivkind, whose lifelong dedication to medicine and humanity has transformed trauma care in Israel and saved innumerable lives. Through innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to saving lives, he exemplifies how academic excellence can shape an entire field and deliver profound impact on society.”
During the Hebrew University’s centennial celebrations marking the laying of its cornerstone, Prof. Rivkind’s trauma treatment approach was recognized as one of the University’s one hundred most significant contributions. This pioneering approach to trauma care, developed by Prof. Avi Rivkind at the Center for Shock and Trauma at the Hebrew University–Hadassah Medical School, has substantially reduced mortality rates across all levels of injury.
Prof. Avi Rivkind | Credit: Avi Hayun
For over a century, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been a beacon for visionary minds who challenge convention and shape the future. Founded by luminaries like Albert Einstein, who entrusted his intellectual legacy to the university, it is dedicated to advancing knowledge, cultivating leadership, and promoting diversity. Home to over 23,000 students from 90 countries, the Hebrew University drives much of Israel’s civilian scientific research and the commercialization of technologies through Yissum, its tech transfer company. Hebrew University’s groundbreaking contributions have been recognized with major international awards, including ten Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards, and a Fields Medal. Ranked 88th globally by the Shanghai Ranking (2025), Hebrew University marks a century of excellence in research, education, and innovation. To learn more about the university’s academic programs, research, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en.