The Gatekeeper

Prof. Halleli Pinson, a political sociologist of education at the School of Education, has long examined how schools function within shifting global landscapes. One of her central academic interests, gendered patterns of participation in science education, reflects her broader commitment to equity and social justice. Now, in her latest institutional role, she is applying her scholarly insights to one of the most sensitive and critical areas of campus life: preventing and addressing sexual harassment.

Recently, Prof. Pinson was appointed Ben-Gurion University of the Negev’s Commissioner for Complaints of Sexual Harassment. The position builds on her prior tenure as the President’s Advisor on Gender Equity, during which she led significant reforms, including the creation of a dedicated professional tribunal for handling harassment complaints—an unprecedented move in Israeli academia. Her appointment marks the continuation of efforts to establish an organizational culture grounded in zero tolerance.

“Sexual harassment undermines basic rights to freedom and safety,” she asserts. “It disrupts academic work, erodes trust between faculty and students, and creates an unsafe environment for learning and employment.”

Upon assuming her new position, Pinson quickly identified a major challenge: underreporting. Despite awareness campaigns and reporting mechanisms, the number of formal complaints remained strikingly low. According to Pinson, this is especially true in cases involving power imbalances. Fear of retaliation, skepticism about the impartiality of investigations, and even lack of clarity about what legally constitutes harassment, all contribute to victims’ reluctance to come forward. “People may feel ‘uncomfortable,’” she explains, “without realizing that what triggered those feelings was, in fact, sexual harassment.”

Recent social shifts have added further complexity. “Since October 7, we’ve seen a drop in complaints, not necessarily because harassment has decreased, but because victims are less inclined to ‘make a fuss,’” she observes. “In a time of national trauma, many minimize their own suffering, telling themselves, ‘Why make a big deal out of it?’”

The University’s response to these challenges is multi-pronged. In addition to handling complaints, Pinson leads prevention efforts through education and outreach. A recent organizational survey assessed the scope of harassment on campus and gauged confidence in the University’s response systems. She has also overseen the creation of a peer-support network made up of trained students, faculty, and staff. These individuals accompany victims through the reporting and investigative process, offering both emotional and academic support.

When a formal complaint is filed, the process is handled with speed and discretion. Either Pinson or one of the other commissioners conducts an initial investigation, beginning with the complainant’s statement. If warranted, interim protective measures are enacted immediately—chief among them, ensuring a total cessation of contact between the complainant and the respondent. Psychological support is also offered. The investigation proceeds with conversations involving the accused, relevant witnesses, and a review of available evidence. Ultimately, a recommendation is submitted to the President of the University. Where reasonable suspicion exists, the matter is referred to the university’s disciplinary tribunal; where it does not, the case is closed. In ambiguous cases, senior staff may be instructed to conduct a cautionary conversation with the respondent.

Crucially, the University’s commitment to transparency extends beyond campus. Each year, it submits a detailed report to the Knesset Committee on the Status of Women and Gender Equality, outlining both complaint statistics and proactive measures. These reports are made publicly available.

Pinson brings to her position more than procedural expertise. She holds a doctorate in sociology of education from the University of Cambridge and has established herself as a respected international scholar. Her leadership on gender equity, both within and beyond the university, has helped shape institutional policy with clarity and compassion.

Above all, Prof. Pinson sees her work as part of a larger effort to rebuild and sustain trust—between individuals, within the institution, and across the broader academic community. “A university must be a place of safety and dignity,” she says. “Only then can it be a true home for learning.”

Adapted from an article in issue 144 of Aleph-Bet-Gimmel, the University’s Hebrew language magazine. For the original article.