Ariel University to Confer Honorary Doctorate on Grandmaster Boris Gelfand

The Ariel University Senate has resolved to confer an Honorary Doctorate (Doctor Honoris Causa) upon Grandmaster Boris Gelfand, recognizing a career defined by world-class competitive performance, intellectual leadership, and enduring contribution to Israeli and international chess.

Gelfand is a Chess World Cup winner and a World Chess Championship finalist, widely regarded as one of Israel’s most accomplished chess figures and a leading representative of Israeli excellence on the global stage. 

The conferral ceremony will take place on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, at Ariel University. 

Professor Ehud Grossman, President of Ariel University, said:

“Boris Gelfand is a benchmark for sustained excellence, disciplined preparation, clear decision-making under pressure. By awarding this Honorary Doctorate, the University is recognizing not only extraordinary achievement, but the broader public value of a life that elevates Israel’s standing in the global arena.” 

Professor Albert Pinhasov, Rector of Ariel University, added:

“For me personally, as a chess player, it’s a great privilege to honor Grandmaster Boris Gelfand, not only for what he has achieved, but for how he has achieved it. Across decades his outstanding results while representing Israel in international arena have inspired both established players and young talents, setting and maintaining the highest standards of this intellectual game. In recent years, Boris has become a close friend of the University, supporting our Annual Memorial Chess Championship. His presence reinforced what chess at its best represents: character, responsibility, and the commitment to carry a heritage forward. Ariel University is proud to confer this Honorary Doctorate in recognition of a legacy that continues to inspire.”