BOG 2025: Enabling Success, Overcoming Challenges for Students with Disabilities

In a moving gathering on the Tel Aviv University campus, the Mia and Mile Pinkas Accessible Learning Center celebrated a significant milestone since its founding in 2015 — marking a decade of transforming lives and empowering students with disabilities to succeed in their academic and personal journeys.

The meeting was filled with warmth, gratitude, and inspiring stories, highlighting both the Center’s achievements and the resilience of the students it serves.

“It’s a true honor to have you with us here in person,” said Prof. Drorit Neumann, Dean of the TAU Student Success Center, addressing benefactor and TAU Governor Miguel Pinkas. “Supporting students with disabilities is a great cause," she continued, "we anticipate welcoming more students soon.”

Limor Shem Tov, Head of the Student Advancement Unit, praised the long-standing partnership with the Pinkas family. “You’ve been our partner for years. The fact that you chose to renew and enlarge your donation shows that you truly understand the challenges of operating this Center, especially in the last two years post October 7th,” she said. “These continue to be difficult times, and our students face a unique set of obstacles. But here, they find friends, community, and a deep sense of belonging. It’s a student-led hub of empowerment.”

Shem Tov also shared several updates: all computers at the Center have been upgraded, a new Braille machine has been installed for visually impaired students, and the Center has expanded its services — with 52 students receiving tutoring, 25 awarded scholarships, and complimentary psychological support now available.

Then came the voices that left the strongest impression: the students themselves. Seven young individuals, each living with a different disability, spoke candidly about their challenges — and their determination.

Michal, a third-year physics and electrical engineering student who is blind in one eye, shared how emotional support from the Center helped her regain stability after October 7th. “It changed my life,” she said. “It helped me get my feet on the ground again.”

Gil, an industrial engineering student, and Ilan, a first-year digital studies and political science major, both with hearing impairments, echoed similar sentiments. “The aid makes me feel seen and cared for,” said Ilan.

Mira, a first-year electrical engineering student with a hearing disability, dreams of founding a company with high social impact.

Eitan, who is also hearing-impaired, studies law and Middle Eastern history while learning Arabic.

The final and most emotional testimony came from Dina, a singer-songwriter diagnosed at 15 with progressive multiple sclerosis. Now studying film, Dina shared her journey of continuing to create and dream despite her physical limitations. She thanked Miguel Pinkas for his support and performed a song from her wheelchair. The performance left the room in tears.

“I wish everyone could hear you and witness your strength,” said an emotional Miguel Pinkas. “You are our heroes. And I’m so grateful my family is joining us here on Zoom. Supporting you is not a duty — it’s a privilege. Every one of us has their own journey, and I’m honored to be part of yours.”
The Pinkas family has supported Tel Aviv University for more than three decades, including initiatives like the Gabriel Pinkas Chair for the Prevention and Diagnosis of Congenital Anomalies.

This heartfelt meeting was a testament to the mission of the Mia and Mile Pinkas Accessible Learning Center: helping students to overcome adversity, achieve academic excellence, and, most importantly, to believe in their own strength.