2022 ‘Jewish Nobel Prize’ to Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla

The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, recently presented the Genesis Prize to Dr. Albert Bourla at a ceremony in Jerusalem.

The gala event brought together hundreds of dignitaries from Israel, including government ministers, heads of business and philanthropic organizations, as well as prominent representatives of the Jewish diaspora and leading members of the global medical community.

The annual $1 million Genesis Prize, dubbed the “Jewish Nobel” by TIME magazine, honors extraordinary individuals for their outstanding professional achievement, contribution to humanity, commitment to Jewish values and the State of Israel.

Bourla was announced as the 9th Genesis Prize Laureate in January. The award recognizes his leadership in delivering a vaccine against COVID-19, which saved millions of lives during the pandemic. The Genesis Prize also celebrates the boldness of his vision and willingness to assume risks, which enabled delivery of the vaccine in record time.

In addition to honoring the vast humanitarian impact of Dr. Bourla’s leadership, the award also celebrates his pride in his Jewish identity and heritage and his strong support for the State of Israel.

President Herzog said, “Albert Bourla was not deterred by high stakes, by naysayers, by conspiracy or by politics. He believed in the vaccine and invested every ounce of himself in realizing what seemed at the time a far-fetched fantasy. The vaccine was developed in record speed, utilizing the technology of tomorrow to successfully hold back a devastating pandemic.

“Albert, I congratulate you and your colleagues and counterparts, who are making such a critical impact on humanity, while embracing your Jewish heritage and values and inspiring Jewish pride.”

Stan Polovets, the founder and chairman of The Genesis Prize Foundation, added, “To save a human life is a fundamental Jewish value. Today we honor Dr. Bourla — a living embodiment of this ancient Jewish principle. We also celebrate the immense contribution of Jewish doctors who were on the frontline of the COVID pandemic for two years and who continue to save the lives of people suffering in Ukraine today.”