Prof. Tamir Sheafer Appointed President of Hebrew University

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem announced today (Monday) that Prof. Tamir Sheafer has been elected as its next president. The decision was approved by the University’s Executive Committee and Board of Governors. Prof. Sheafer, who currently serves as the university’s rector, will assume the presidency in October 2025, succeeding Prof. Asher Cohen, who will complete two four-year terms in the role.

Prof. Sheafer previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. As rector, he has overseen the university’s unprecedented support for students, reserve-duty soldiers and affected communities during the current war, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack and the events that followed. Over the past two years, he allocated approximately 40 million shekels to assist thousands of students. He also played a key role in maintaining calm and fostering coexistence among the university’s diverse populations, including Jewish, Arab and international students, during this complex and tense period.

An expert in comparative and digital political communication, Prof. Sheafer has led international research collaborations examining how political systems and democratic resilience influence political and media dynamics. He also headed the Digital Political Communication Research Lab (DeepStory), which develops deep learning-based tools for analyzing political narratives.

Prof. Sheafer will take over from Prof. Asher Cohen, who led the university through a period of significant growth and transformation. During his tenure, Prof. Cohen spearheaded record-breaking fundraising campaigns, expanded the university’s senior academic staff, and launched new programs and research centers, including computational medicine studies, the Israel Center for Addiction and Mental Health (ICAMH), and the Sheldon Lavin Center for Sustainable Food. He also oversaw major infrastructure developments, including the Gav-Yam Hebrew Campus, which is expected to add over 10,000 high-tech jobs in Jerusalem.

During Prof. Cohen’s tenure, the university saw a significant rise in student enrollment and the launch of numerous academic and research initiatives. At the same time, it faced major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and, in recent years, complex national events. Over the past three years, Prof. Cohen has led the university’s strategic mission on key national issues, including opposition to the judicial overhaul, the challenges facing Israeli academia post October 7 war, and advocacy for the return of the hostages.

Dan Schlessinger, Chairman of the Board of Governors: “I am delighted that Professor Sheafer will be taking on the role of president. His long-term commitment to the University is unsurpassed. Having worked with him extensively in his role as rector, I am confident that he will bring a creative vision and excellent managerial skills to his new role, and will be a worthy successor to our outgoing leader, Asher Cohen.”

Prof. Asher Cohen:
“I extend my warm congratulations to my dear friend and colleague, Prof. Tamir Sheafer. Over the past years, we have worked closely together—particularly in navigating the university through the challenges of war. I conclude my presidency with a deep sense of satisfaction and confidence in the university’s future under his leadership.”

Prof. Tamir Sheafer:
“I am honored by the trust placed in me and accept this responsibility with humility. I am committed to continuing the advancement of the Hebrew University as a global leader in research and education, upholding academic excellence, freedom, tolerance, and interdisciplinary collaboration.”