28/07/2026
Congratulations to Prof. Hefziba Lifsh*tz on receiving the 2026 President's Award in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the State of Israel.
For many years, it was widely believed that the cognitive development of people with intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome reached its limit in childhood. Prof. Lifsh*tz's groundbreaking research transformed this understanding, demonstrating that cognitive abilities continue to develop and evolve well into adulthood.
Beyond her pioneering research, Prof. Lifsh*tz has translated knowledge into meaningful social impact. She founded Otzmot, an innovative three-stage program that enables the full academic inclusion of students with cognitive diversity. To date, six participants have successfully completed their academic studies through the program.
Prof. Lifsh*tz also heads the Segol and Etel laboratories, which advance research and promote greater accessibility to higher education for these populations. In addition, she serves as Head of the M.A. Program in Special Education (Cognitive Diversity).
We are proud of Prof. Lifsh*tz's remarkable achievements and her enduring contributions to research, education, and Israeli society. Congratulations!