Prof. Deborah Lipstadt Awarded Jonathan Sacks Institute Prize

Bar-Ilan University has announced that Prof. Deborah Lipstadt has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Jonathan Sacks Institute Prize for Outstanding Achievement as a Public Intellectual, awarded in memory of Samuel Gewurz z”l.

A distinguished historian and one of the world’s leading voices confronting antisemitism, Prof. Lipstadt is being recognised for her decades-long leadership in combating Holocaust denial, strengthening public understanding of antisemitism, and defending moral and intellectual integrity in the public square.

Reacting to the announcement, Lady Elaine Sacks said: “Deborah has shown extraordinary courage and integrity in her lifelong commitment to truth, justice, and the defence of human dignity. She well deserves this significant recognition, and I send my warmest congratulations.”

Joanna Benarroch, President of the Rabbi Sacks Legacy, added: “Rabbi Sacks believed that ideas change the world, and that courageous leadership in the public square is essential to a healthy society. Professor Lipstadt embodies that belief, and through intellectual rigour and moral courage has made an extraordinary contribution to public life.”

The Prize will be presented at a special ceremony at Bar-Ilan University in May 2026. During her visit, Prof. Lipstadt will deliver a public lecture titled “Antisemitism: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.”

In October 2010, the then Chief Rabbi, Lord Jonathan Sacks offered an academic address on the meaning and measure of happiness in the Jewish tradition at the Center for the Study of Law and Religion in Emory University. The lecture was followed by a panel discussion with Michael Broyde and Deborah Lipstadt.

The Jonathan Sacks Institute at Bar-Ilan University was established in 2023 to honour and perpetuate the legacy of the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth. Through programs and research, the Institute seeks to ensure that Rabbi Sacks' ideas receive the attention and recognition they deserve within academia, especially as they relate to contemporary moral, social and political challenges. In addition, the Institute is developing a diverse network of alumni with leadership potential who can make a practical impact on the future of Israeli, Jewish and world society, inspired and guided by Rabbi Sacks' vision.