1st prize to be awarded by Netanyahu in 2014; to be given in recognition of Jewish achievement, contribution to humanity.
By SAM SOKOLElie Wiesel 311(photo credit: Sasson Tiram)
Nobel Laureate Elie Weisel has been chosen to serve on the prize committee for the Genesis Prize, a new award to be given in recognition of Jewish achievement and contribution to humanity, according to the Genesis Prize Foundation.Other members of the selection and prize committees are Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth Lord Jonathan Sacks, Chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel Natan Sharansky and Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein.“The accomplishments of the Genesis Prize laureate will place a bright spotlight on the individual’s achievement in his/her field and will serve to symbolize the Jewish people’s contribution to humanity,” said the event organizers.Candidates for the $1 million prize are to be nominated by leaders of Jewish communal institutions around the world.“From Moses to Maimonides and Einstein to Ben-Gurion, Jews have contributed to the world in a unparalleled way – always moving forward and inspiring inventions, innovations, thought and creativity,” said Sharansky, who serves as the chairman of the selection committee.“The Genesis Prize pays homage to that, and aims to find the next generation of great Jewish minds. I am proud to be cooperating with the Prime Minister’s Office and the Genesis Philanthropy Group as we begin this exciting and fascinating journey which will shed light on the men and women who light up the world.”“The Prize will be the cornerstone of a worldwide effort to create a new, robust consciousness for younger generations of Jews,” said Stan Polovets, chairman of the Board of the Genesis Prize Foundation.“We believe that when young people better understand and relate to their rich historical and cultural legacy, they are far more likely to carry forth important values that can contribute to the betterment of the world.”
