NEW YORK (Press Release)– The Max Steinberg Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund, named for a young Californian, has been established at Ben Gurion University of the Negev in partnership with the fallen soldier’s parents, Stuart and Evelyn (Evie), and Max’s siblings, Paige and Jake. Max died in battle in Gaza during Operation Protective Edge last July.
The Max Steinberg Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund was launched by American Associates of Ben Gurion University (AABGU) Vice President Jessica Sillins in association on Sunday, Feb. 15, with a Times of Israel Gala in New York City. The Steinberg family was among three “Families of the Fallen” recognized at the event, from which a portion of the proceeds were donated to AABGU.
“I am deeply touched by Max’s story – his determination to join one of Israel’s elite army units, and his love for Israel is an inspiration to us all. Equally moving is the commitment by his parents and siblings to create a living legacy in his name at Ben-Gurion University,” said Sillins.
Max Steinberg was originally from Woodland Hills, California. He made aliyah, joining the Israel Defense Forces as a lone soldier (young adults who move to Israel without family). He insisted on serving nowhere else but in the elite Golani brigade. Max was 24 years-old when he lost his life defending the land and the people he loved.
The Steinberg endowment will provide scholarships to Golani and other combat reservists at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) in perpetuity, with first preference going to lone soldiers. The Steinbergs will be part of the decision process to ensure that the receiving students mirror Max’s values and vision.
“We are delighted to know that Max’s legacy will be connected to a university and scholarship program that grants opportunity and promise to the soldiers that have put their lives in harm’s way for the people of Israel,” says Max’s father, Stuart Steinberg. “We know that Max cared deeply for his fellow soldiers and that he would be whole-heartedly supportive of a program that allows soldiers to pursue their passions and create a great future.”
AABGU’s Southwest regional director, Philip Gomperts, worked with the Steinberg family and Israel’s Los Angeles Consul General David Siegel to create an appropriate legacy for Max and his fellow soldiers.
“Max Steinberg made the ultimate sacrifice and we are forever indebted to him,” says Consul General Siegel. “His memory is a blessing for our people and continues to serve as an inspiration for all of Israel. Ben-Gurion University’s commitment to awarding scholarships to Israel’s most brave defenders is a deeply special way to honor the young men and women who commit their lives to defending the people and State of Israel.”
“It takes $75,000 to provide a scholarship to one undergraduate student annually in perpetuity,” adds Ruth Flinkman-Marandy, an AABGU vice president and the campaign chair for the Southwest Region. “We hope to raise millions of dollars to enable multiple Max Steinberg scholarship recipients each year.”
During Operation Protective Edge, more than 2,000 BGU students were called to military service, while the University was under continuous threat of missile attacks and forced to close for more than 50 days. With support from AABGU, each and every one received a scholarship this fall to ease their economic burden. Recently, BGU was given an award by Israel’s Defense Ministry for its extraordinary services and assistance provided to student-soldiers.
“With their decision to create the Max Steinberg Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund, the Steinberg family is memorializing Max in a way that will celebrate his life and his choices in perpetuity and will impact a widening circle of young people – an act that is truly worthy of admiration,” says BGU President Prof. Rivka Carmi. “Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare, but they have turned this personal tragedy into an opportunity to do a greater good.”
Contributions to the Max Steinberg Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund can be made at www.aabgu.org/maxsteinberg
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Preceding provided by American Associates Ben Gurion University