Acknowledgements

• I would like to thank my graduate mentor, Addis Getahun, for the incredible support and guidance he's offered throughout my research journey. His remarkable mentorship has deeply enriched my time at UCSC and allowed me to get the most out of my undergrad research experience. You're the best, Addis!

• I would also like to thank Dr. Tim Johnstone for the continued encouragement and attentiveness he's offered during the entire research process. Thanks Tim!

• I would lastly like to thank the Koret Foundation for the opportunity to develop and present my research project.

UCSC's Encampment and Call for Divestment

On May 1st, 2024, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) at UCSC launched an encampment with a call for the university to divest, disclose, and cut Zionist affiliations. One notable call for divestment amongst this list includes the Koret Foundation, which maintains strong ties with Israeli organizations. While I recognize the Koret Foundation's instrumental support in my research journey, I also seek to acknowledge the brave students and academic workers who continue to protest the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In recent days, these students have faced suspension, arrest, and police brutality at the hands of the UCSC administration. I'd like to thank my peers for their valor against the increased police presence on campus and advocating for the human rights of the Palestinian citizens displaced, injured, and killed by Israeli Defense Forces.