Ramaz 2019 Commencement Program

The Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein

Upper School

2019

COMMENCEMENT 71st Commencement Wednesday, June 19, 2019

‫ט״ז בסיון תשע״ט‬ ‫ למדינת ישראל‬71-‫יובל ה‬ ‫נ"ב לאיחוד ירושלים‬ Temple Emanu-El Leon Lowenstein Sanctuary

GRADUATES THE RABBI JOSEPH H. LOOKSTEIN UPPER SCHOOL OF RAMAZ THE CLASS OF 2019 •David Abginesaz ••Emily Abraham •Rose Chana Adelman •David Eitan Adler •Adam Jacob Agus Elizabeth Sophia Alayev •Violet Allaham ••Jacob J. Amaltov •Jeremy Arch Ascher Elizabeth Deborah Aufzien Esther J. Beck •Jacob Isaac Bengualid Nicole Sara Bensadigh •Jonah Gabriel Zeltser Berman Elana L. Bernstein Abraham Blitzer Olivia Rebecca Bourkoff Claudine Chloe Chabbott Sophie Chabbott •Sophie Esther Dahan Amit Isaac Daniell Alexandra Doppelt Rebecca Douer Suzi Dweck Loren Elmann •Noah Samuel Finkelstein •Talia Fouzailoff •David Gad Sarah Lily Genachowski Alexander Zachary Glasberg ••Isaiah Z Goldberg

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•Yehuda Goldman •Allison P. Goldschmidt David Brandon Grinberg Cameryn Leah Guetta Matthew Bernard Gurewitsch ••Nathan Haron •Rachel Havivo ••Rebecca Leah Hershkowitz •Jacob Ilan Herskowitz •Noe Andre Horowitz Noa Claire Horvitz •Eli Baruch Itzhaky •Abigail Hadar Cowan Jacob •Danya Max Jacobs Talia Eve Justin •Isabelle Rose Kahan Natalie Leah Kahn •Talia R. Katz •Hadley Stephen Kauvar Gloria Khafif Benjamin Zeev Klahr Amanda Koptyev •Laura H. Lancman Daniel Alexander Levy Jonah Maxwell Levy Naomi Mei Lin Levy Matthew Makharadze •Paola Mattout Zachary S. Maurer ••Esther Menaged •Isaac Hermann Merkin

Lia Michel •Ayelet Monas Samuel Mukamal •Hillel Jacob Ottensoser Michael Noah Perl Emily Faith Podolsky •Alexa Rose Polinsky •Elijah Dov Posner David Rahabi •Oliver Charles Henry Rein •Eliana Orly Rubin Shireen Sakhai Isaac Sarao •Jonah Benjamin Scherl •Remi Gabriella Segal Hank M. Shalom Loren Naomi Shamalov •Harrison Howard Shams Aaron Ezra Shapira •Maor Shazo •Thomas Martin Shemia Ilan Marco Sidi •Hannah Slager •Liviah Yael Sobel •Yasmine Lauren Sokol Brooke Shayna Stonehill •Jacob Szlechter •Rebecca Michelle Tauber •Meira Sara Weinstock •Yonatan Alfred Weitzner

• Studying in Israel •• IDF/Sherut Leumi

PROGRAM ORDER OF EXERCISES PROCESSIONAL NATIONAL ANTHEM CLASS SPEAKERS CANTATA

Rabbi Shlomo Stochel Presiding The Assembly is requested to remain seated until the National Anthem.

The Assembly David Abginesaz Harry Shams “We're Still New York” “‫לעולם‬

‫”נו יורק‬

Written by Natalie Kahn, Amanda Koptyev, Danya Jacobs, and Olivia Bourkoff

ALUMNI ADDRESS

Class of 2009: Julia Straus Baruch Tenth Anniversarian Address

HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL ADDRESS

Rabbi Shlomo Stochel

AWARDING OF DIPLOMAS

Upper School Administration

CONFERRING OF DEGREES CLOSING PRAYER HATIKVAH RECESSIONAL COLLATION

Jonathan Cannon Rabbi Haskel Lookstein '49

The Assembly is requested to rise and to remain standing.

The Class of 2019 Gene L. Blumenthal Hall

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AWARDS ‫פרס רמז‬ Ramaz Prize

Given to the student who best exemplifies the ideals and goals of a Ramaz education: menschlichkeit; commitment to Torah, mitzvot, Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael; superior academic achievement; and a demonstration of responsibility for the society of which he/she is a part.

Nathan Haron

‫פרס להצטיינות‬ ‫בלמודים‬ Renee Margareten Berger Award

‫כתר שם טוב‬ Morris Arfa Keter Shem Tov Award

‫מידות‬ Lillian Jacobs Award

‫חסד‬ Sue Moskowitz Chesed Award

‫דרכי נועם‬ Darkhei Noam

‫תיקון עולם‬ Boris Z. Gorlin Tikkun Olam Award

‫דרך הישר‬ Dr. Irving & Dubby Shulman Derekh Hayashar Citizenship Award

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Presented to the students who have achieved the highest academic averages.

Judaic Studies: General Studies:

Natalie Kahn Harrison Shams

Given to the student who best exemplifies the qualities and character advocated in Pirkei Avot.

David Abginesaz For excellence in character and dedication to the spirit of Jewish ethics.

Emily Abraham Loren Shamalov For demonstrating exceptional concern for people and kindness to those in need.

Paola Mattout Sophie Dahan Presented to the senior who comports themselves with inner strength, warmth, and sensitivity.

Hannah Slager

Presented to the senior who strives through acts of tzedakah and chesed to repair the world in the image of God.

Jonah Scherl

Presented to those graduates of Ramaz who exemplify the Derekh Hayashar.

Loren Elmann Benjamin Klahr

AWARDS For the student who has shown a commitment to community service.

Jacob Herskowitz

‫מסירות לצרכי‬ ‫הקהילה‬ Richard E. Kobrin Award for Excellence in Community Service

Awarded to the senior selected by the class as the individual most concerned with the needs and sensitivities of his or her classmates.

Loren Shamalov Honoring the student who, since their start at Ramaz, has exhibited unwavering perseverance, through hard work and determination, in pursuit of their academic and personal goals.

Elizabeth Alayev Given to the senior women who best integrate modern ideals of womanhood with traditional Jewish life.

Allison Goldschmidt Ayelet Monas For the seniors who have demonstrated the highest standards of menschlichkeit in service to Klal Yisrael.

Suzi Dweck Rebecca Douer Presented to the seniors who, with energy and good humor, have demonstrated a commitment to learning as the language of their daily lives.

Amanda Koptyev Yasmine Sokol For the student athletes who best exemplify the values of sportsmanship and menschlichkeit both on and off the playing field.

Isaac Merkin Shireen Sakhai Rebecca Tauber

‫ערכי הזולת‬ Sam Gyenes Memorial Award

,‫ נחישות‬,‫דבקות‬ ‫ומאמץ רב‬ The Norman Kreinen Fortitude Award

‫אשת חיל‬ Gertrude Lookstein Eishet Chayil Award

‫מענטשלעכקייט‬ Mary and Louis Wolinsky Award in Community Outreach

‫לימוד כדרך חיים‬ Gilda Silverman Memorial Award

‫מענטשלעכקייט‬ ‫בספורט‬ David Kagan Memorial Award

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AWARDS ‫צהל‬

Ramaz IDF Award

‫ציונות דתית‬ Drs. Gerald and Vicki Platt Award

‫מנהיגות פוליטית‬ Walter Koppel Jewish Political Action Award

‫שרות‬ Rochelle Miller Sherut Award

‫בגרות נפשית‬ Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein Award For Personal Growth

‫עבודה שבלב‬ Jesse Deutsch Tefillah Award

‫מסירות בעבודת השם‬ ‫ובשירות למדינה‬ The Julius L. Lassner Semper Fi Award for Good Citizenship and Service to God and Country

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Awarded to the seniors who choose to enter the IDF after being graduated from Ramaz.

Emily Abraham Jacob Amaltov Isaiah Goldberg Nathan Haron Rebecca Hershkowitz Esther Menaged For the graduating senior who has demonstrated a love of Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael as expressed in the philosophy of religious Zionism.

Sophie Dahan Given to the student who has demonstrated leadership and commitment to political action for the benefit of the Jewish people.

Meira Weinstock

Presented to the graduating seniors who, through leadership and dedication, have generated school spirit, contributed to the community, and enhanced the quality of student life.

Paola Mattout Rebecca Tauber For the seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic and personal growth.

Olivia Bourkoff Lia Michel For the seniors who have shown a demonstrable commitment to Tefillah throughout high school.

David Abginesaz Emily Abraham Jacob Herskowitz Presented to the Ramaz senior who best exemplifies the values Ramaz aims to instill in its students: unconditional love of God, Jewish pride, love of country, menschlichkeit and chesed.

Oliver Rein

ACADEMIC DISTINCTIONS For excellence and commitment to religious studies.

‫לימודי קודש‬

David Abginesaz Meyer Appleman Memorial Award For excellence in the study of Bible and commitment to its principles.

Natalie Kahn For excellence in the study of Talmud.

‫תנ“ך‬ Isaac Rappaport Bible Award

‫תלמוד‬

Natalie Kahn Aron, Leah, and Benjamin Klahr Leon Swergold

Memorial Award

For outstanding work in the study of the Hebrew language and excellence in its literature.

‫לשון וספרות‬ Leonard Friedland

Elana Bernstein Hebrew Language Esther Menaged Memorial Award Awarded to graduating seniors for excellence in literature.

‫אנגלית‬

Esther Beck English Award Isaiah Goldberg Natalie Kahn Harrison Shams For outstanding work in creative writing.

‫כתיבה יצירתית‬

Esther Beck Edith Schrank Natalie Kahn Memorial Award Awarded to graduating seniors for excellence in history.

‫הסטוריה‬

Natalie Kahn History Award Elijah Posner Awarded to the senior selected who has demonstrated dedication to clinical medicine or related healthcare field through service, continued education or outreach.

Ilan Sidi

‫שירותי בריאות‬ The Dr. Saul G. Agus Memorial Award for Service in and Commitment to the Field of Healthcare

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ACADEMIC DISTINCTIONS ‫צרפתית‬ Danièle Gorlin Lassner French Award

‫ספרדית‬ Spanish Award

‫מתימטיקה‬ Liselotte Samuel Gorlin Award for Excellence in Mathematics

‫מחשבים‬ Gorfinkle/Waldman Computer Science Award

‫חקר המדע‬ David Franklin Memorial Award

‫חקר הפיזיקה‬ Harvey Blech Memorial Award

‫אומנויות‬ Fannye Popkin Memorial Award

‫אומנויות על הבמה‬ Debby Sacks Award

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For outstanding ability in French.

Natalie Kahn

For outstanding ability in Spanish.

Paola Mattout

For excellence in all phases of mathematics.

Natalie Kahn

For outstanding work in the study of computer science.

Elizabeth Aufzien Nathan Haron

For outstanding work and dedication to the scientific method.

David Adler Elizabeth Aufzien

For excellence in the study of physics.

Elizabeth Aufzien Jonah Berman For excellence in fine arts.

Emily Abraham Lia Michel Meira Weinstock For excellence in performing arts.

Nathan Haron

CO-CURRICULAR RECOGNITIONS Given to the students who have demonstrated a commitment to Holocaust awareness and care for Holocaust survivors through their participation in Witness Theater.

Violet Allaham Amanda Koptyev Loren Shamalov Ilan Sidi Awarded to graduating seniors for outstanding contributions to Rampage.

Esther Beck Natalie Kahn Harrison Shams Awarded to graduating seniors for outstanding contributions to the Yearbook.

Paola Mattout Jonah Scherl Granted to the seniors who reflect a commitment to a year of study in Israel and excellence in journalism and writing.

Paola Mattout Harrison Shams Awarded to graduating seniors for excellence in chorus.

Cameryn Guetta Amanda Koptyev For excellence in drama.

Hadley Kauvar Naomi Levy Lia Michel David Rahabi For participating with distinction in the band.

Isaac Merkin Jonah Scherl Awarded to graduating seniors for excellence in dance.

Ayelet Monas Liviah Sobel Rebecca Tauber For commitment and outstanding performance in politics and law.

Esther Beck Jacob Bengualid Alexandra Doppelt Elijah Posner

‫חקר השואה‬ Beatrice & Murray Kirschblat Holocaust Award

‫עיתון‬ Rampage Award

‫הנשה רפס‬ Yearbook Award

‫הצטיינות בעיתונאות‬ Rifka Rosenwein Journalism Award

‫מקהלה‬ Chorus Award

‫דרמה‬ Drama Award

‫כלי נגינה‬ Band Award

‫ריקוד‬ Gloria Schrenzel Sheer Dance Award

‫פוליטיקה‬ Sidney Scheinberg Award for Politics and Law

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DESCRIPTIONS ‫פרס רמז‬ Ramaz Prize

Given to the student who best exemplifies the ideals and goals of a Ramaz education: menschlichkeit, commitment to Torah, mitzvot, Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael, superior academic achievement, and demonstration of responsibility for the society of which he/she is a part.

‫פרס להצטיינות בלמודים‬ Renee Margareten Berger Award

The students with the highest academic average in general studies and Jewish studies are given this award, which is named in memory of the first female graduate of Ramaz. The award was established by her husband, Judge Harold Berger, in honor of his wife’s 70th birthday and their 50th wedding anniversary. Renee Margareten entered Ramaz in the third grade in 1937, one of five students in that class, and was graduated in 1943.

‫כתר שם טוב‬

Mrs. Gertrude Arfa was the mother of three Ramaz alumni, grandmother of

Morris Arfa Keter Shem Tov Award

one, and great grandmother of three current students. She established this award in memory of her husband, Morris Arfa, who was a soft-spoken, quiet, “down-to earth” gentleman. This award is given to the student who, like Morris Arfa, best exemplifies the qualities and character advocated in Pirkei Avot.

‫מידות‬

Lillian Jacobs was the assistant to the principal for 33 years and was

Lillian Jacobs Award

a confidant to Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein. She donated this award for students who exhibit excellence in character and dedication to the spirit of Jewish ethics, traits she valued as important in rounding out a person.

‫חסד‬ Sue Moskowitz Chesed Award

Sue Moskowitz was the late wife of former Ramaz faculty member Rabbi Mayer Moskowitz. She was well known for her warmth, kindness, and ability to talk to people. Her Shabbat table was always graced with many guests. This award in her memory is presented to seniors for demonstrating exceptional concern for people and kindness to those in need.

‫דרכי נועם‬ Darkhei Noam

An administrator at Ramaz for over thirty years, Dr. Noam Shudofsky understood and cared for the needs of Ramaz students, families, teachers, and staff with a love and sensitivity that exemplifies the ideals of menschlichkeit.

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DESCRIPTIONS ‫תיקון עולם‬ Boris Z. Gorlin Tikkun Olam Award

Boris Z. Gorlin was the father and grandfather of Ramaz alumni Danièle Gorlin Lassner ‘55, Jacques J. Gorlin ‘61, Jamie ‘82, and Andrew ‘84 Lassner. Mr. Gorlin emigrated from France in 1940 and was the president of Congregation Orach Chaim for over 30 years. He was a prime supporter of the daily minyan and the chevra kaddisha and was a quiet and generous ba’al tzedakah. Through personal example, he set a familial and community standard for hachnasat orchim. This award is offered to the student who strives to imitate Mr. Gorlin’s accomplishments in repairing the world by way of tzedakah and chesed.

‫דרך הישר‬ Dr. Irving & Dubby Shulman Derekh Hayashar Citizenship Award

Dr. and Mrs. Irving Shulman met on Mother’s Day in 1949, and were married several weeks later on Father’s Day. Beloved parents of eight children and grandparents of many more, Dr. and Mrs. Shulman exemplified the Derekh Hayashar, the “proper way,” in their family, community, religious, and professional lives. With loving tribute to their wonderful parents, Drs. Yale and Vivian Shulman, Carole Shulman, and Sandra and Ira Greenstein offer this award to those graduates of Ramaz who exemplify the Derekh Hayashar.

‫מסירות לצרכי הקהילה‬ Richard E. Kobrin Award for Excellence in Community Service

Mr. Kobrin ‘58 has been an active member of the Jewish community for most of his adult life. He has been an officer of Hillel at ColumbiaBarnard for over 25 years and a former officer of Kehilath Jeshurun.

In addition, he has been active in the Real Estate Division Campaign of UJA Federation, Israel Bonds, and ORT. Emily and Eugene M. Grant have endowed this award in recognition of Mr. Kobrin’s contributions to our own community and to the Jewish community at large.

‫ערכי הזולת‬ Sam Gyenes Memorial Award

Sam Gyenes was a sophomore who died in a rafting accident while on a summer tour in Israel. Sam’s laugh and good nature left their mark on all the students and faculty who knew him. He encouraged his peers to see the best in themselves and in others. The award in his memory is given to the senior who is most concerned with the needs and sensitivities of classmates. Appropriately, it is the only award whose recipient is selected by the seniors themselves.

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DESCRIPTIONS ,‫ נחישות‬,‫דבקות‬ ‫ומאמץ רב‬ The Norman Kreinen Fortitude Award

The Norman Kreinen Fortitude Award was established to honor those students who, since their start of Ramaz, have exhibited unwavering perseverance, through hardwork and determination, in pursuit of their academic and personal goals.

Norman Kreinen z”l was a resilient man who endured many challenges both professionally and personally, throughout his lifetime. His work ethic taught those around him the importance of being committed to obtaining one’s goals and staying determined. Norman z”l worked tirelessly and selflessly to provide for his family, and sending his children to yeshiva was his and Marlene’s highest priority. As a couple, they deeply valued the importance of imparting a Jewish education to their children and nothing made them prouder then seeing each of their grandchildren attend Ramaz. He supported the dreams and ambitions of his family, and empowered them to reach their truest potential.

The Norman Kreinen Fortitude Award is endowed to honor the blessed memory of Norman Kreinen z”l, beloved husband to Marlene Kreinen, loving father to Stacey Kreinen-Klass and Wendy Kreinen Modlin ‘91, cherished father-in-law to Richard Klass and Adam Modlin, and adored grandfather to Sophia Klass ‘17, Dylan Modlin ‘18, Miles Klass ‘20, and Julia Modlin ‘21.

‫אשת חיל‬ Gertrude Lookstein Eishet Chayil Award

This award is named for Mrs. Gertrude S. Lookstein, the wife of Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein, who founded Ramaz and was its principal from 1937 to 1964. Mrs. Lookstein was a very supportive force in her husband’s creation of the school, and she identified closely with its students, among whom were her son, her eight grandchildren and nine of her great grandchildren.

‫מענטשלעכקייט‬

Mary and Louis Wolinsky came to the United States from Europe in

Mary and Louis Wolinsky Award in Community Outreach

particularly under the umbrella of the Young Israel movement. Both

their youth. They became active members of Jewish communal life, had the utmost integrity and were known for the moral and ethical way in which they conducted their professional and personal lives. This award, established by their son, Dr. Harvey Wolinsky, an alumni parent, is presented in that spirit to the students who have demonstrated the highest standards of menschlichkeit in the service of Klal Yisrael.

‫לימוד כדרך חיים‬

Gilda Silverman was secretary to Beverly Gribetz and Ira Miller. With

Gilda Silverman Memorial Award

for them was universally felt. This award in her memory is presented

a smile on her face, she enjoyed talking to students and her concern by the G.O. to the seniors who, with energy and good humor, have demonstrated a commitment to learning.

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DESCRIPTIONS ‫מענטשלעכקייט‬ ‫בספורט‬

This award, given to an athlete who displays sportsmanship and

David Kagan Memorial Award

a graduate who died tragically at a young age. David was a fierce

menschlichkeit both on and off the field, is in memory of David Kagan, competitor who never lost sight of the love of the game and the sensitivities of those who played less well than he. And what was true on the basketball court was no less true off the court. He is remembered by all as one of the finest representatives of the Ramaz ethic.

‫צהל‬ Ramaz IDF Award

This award was established in memory of Naftali Frankel, Eyal Yifrach, and Gilad Shaar, and is presented to seniors who choose to enter the IDF after graduating from Ramaz.

‫ציונות דתית‬

Drs. Gerald and Vicki Platt generously donated this award that speaks to

Drs. Gerald And Vicki Platt Award

The award recognizes the need for religious Jews who are educated and

one of the most fundamental aspects of the Ramaz educational mission. committed to religious Zionism and who truly understand the significance of the State of Israel for all Jews. The award is an extension of the Platts’ exemplary communal activism on behalf of Israel and seeks to acknowledge and encourage the next generation of students who will take up the cause of religious Zionism in America and/or in Israel.

‫מנהיגות פוליטית‬ Walter Koppel Jewish Political Action Award

Walter Koppel was a parent of two Ramaz students, Steven and Michael; a president of the Parents Council; a member of the Board; and the late husband of Yvonne Koppel Kopans. Mr. Koppel was an active member of MIDPAC, a Jewish political action committee, and this award, in his memory, is given to the student who has demonstrated leadership and commitment to political action for the benefit of the Jewish people.

‫שרות‬ Rochelle Miller Sherut Award

Rochelle Miller demonstrated a deep commitment to Ramaz and the Jewish community. As wife of our Dean, mother of three Ramaz graduates, and parent volunteer, Ms. Miller enhanced and served Ramaz and the extended community. This award was dedicated in her memory by her friends and family and is given to the graduating seniors who, through leadership and dedication, generated school spirit, contributed to the community, and enhanced the quality of student life.

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DESCRIPTIONS ‫בגרות נפשית‬ Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein Award For Personal Growth

Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein conceived of Ramaz and brought it into existence in 1937. He envisioned a school that would help young people grow into integrated American Jews, loyal to Judaism and yet comfortable in the American environment. He was a dean of the Modern Orthodox rabbinate who achieved great heights as an orator, teacher, and pulpit rabbi. For himself and for Ramaz students, he sought, above all, to be a mensch. This award in his memory is for the students who demonstrate personal growth toward that exalted ideal.

‫עבודה שבלב‬

Mr. Jesse Deutsch was one of the founders of the National Council of

Jesse Deutsch Tefillah Award

Heavily involved in a number of Jewish communal needs including

Young Israel and the Shulamith School, as well as being a businessman. kashrut supervision and education, Mr. Deutsch’s particular passion was for tefillah b’tzibbur. He understood that the true way to inspire meaningful avodah she’balev was not only through the words of prayer, but also through the songs and melodies that would touch the heart.

The award was dedicated on the occasion of his fortieth yahrzeit by his daughter and son-in-law, Nechi and Noam Shudofsky. It is presented to those seniors who have demonstrably contributed to tefillah at Ramaz in general and tefillah b’tzibbur in particular.

‫מסירות בעבודת השם‬ ‫ובשירות למדינה‬

Love of God and country was a driving force in shaping Jules Lassner. Jules

The Julius L. Lassner Semper Fi Award for Good Citizenship and Service to God and Country

several decades as a way to support and show gratitude to the country that

joined the United States Marine Corps in his teens and served his country for had allowed his family personal and religious freedom.

Jules was a dedicated leader within the Jewish community and the Chevra Kadisha (burial society) where he continued his sense of duty as a Marine, to never leave behind a fallen comrade. He was a friend to thousands and made an impact on anyone who was privileged to be in his presence.

We honor Jules Lassner as his memory lives on through the recognition of unconditional love of God, Jewish pride, love of country, menschlichkeit and chesed within the Ramaz student body.

Jules Lassner was husband of Ramaz alumna and beloved educator Danièle Gorlin Lassner ‘55, father of Jamie ‘82 and Andrew ‘84 Lassner, and grandfather of Sam ‘11 and Adam ’15 Lassner.

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DESCRIPTIONS ‫לימודי קודש‬ Meyer Appleman Memorial Award

The award for commitment to religious studies is dedicated to the memory of a teacher who taught at Ramaz for more than a decade.

Meyer Appleman was a dedicated teacher who is remembered for his wonderful smile and his desire to share his love of the Hebrew language by corresponding with his students during the summer. It is for his overall love of religious studies that this award is presented.

‫תנ“ך‬

Mr. Rappaport taught at Ramaz for over 25 years. He was a lover of Tanakh

Isaac Rappaport Bible Award

heart. He also loved Jewish children. He found it virtually impossible to fail a

and he encouraged his students to learn many sentences and chapters by student. When asked about it, his response was “How could you fail a Jewish child?” This award, in his memory, is for excellence in the study of Bible and commitment to its principles.

‫תלמוד‬ Aron, Leah, and Leon Swergold Memorial Award

‫לשון וספרות‬ Leonard Friedland Hebrew Language Memorial Award

Maurice Swergold, Leon Swergold, and Cecile Platovsky endowed this award for excellence in Talmud, in memory of their beloved parents. They are the proud parents of Ramaz alumni.

This award is given to seniors for outstanding work in the study of the Hebrew Language and excellence in literature. It appropriately memorializes Mr. Friedland who was a teacher and “supervisor” of Judaic Studies for almost 25 years at Ramaz. He was a fine soft-spoken gentleman as well as a Hebrew poet.

‫כתיבה יצירתית‬

This award is given by the English Department for excellence in creative

Edith Schrank Memorial Award

writing. For over a decade, Ms. Schrank taught English and served as an advisor to the yearbook. From her passion for Chaucer to her appreciation for the poetry of the spoken word, she loved the English language.

‫שירותי בריאות‬ The Dr. Saul G. Agus Memorial Award for Service in and Commitment to the Field of Healthcare

Dr. Saul G. Agus, z”l, a practicing physician specializing in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, spent countless hours with his patients, focusing not just on their physical conditions but also on their mental and spiritual wellbeing. He was described by his former chief at Mount Sinai, as exemplifying the highest ideals of medicine, Judaism, and menschlichkeit. He was married to Marcelle Appel Agus, was the proud father of four Ramaz Upper School graduates, and proud grandfather of numerous Ramaz alumni. The Dr. Saul Agus Memorial Award is presented to a graduating Ramaz senior who has demonstrated dedication to clinical medicine or related healthcare fields through service, continued education, or outreach.

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DESCRIPTIONS ‫צרפתית‬ Danièle Gorlin Lassner French Award

Mrs. Lassner ‘55 was easily one of the most popular teachers in the Ramaz School. Her infectious laugh, her wonderful sense of humor, and her incredible joie de vivre made her a beloved part of the Ramaz family for decades. In addition to her roles as past Foreign Language Department Chair in the Upper School and past Dean of Admissions for the entire Ramaz School, she is also the mother of two Ramaz graduates and grandmother of five. She has always set a standard for how to do it all, with professionalism, class, and a lot of love. Mrs. Lassner is largely responsible for establishing the importance of all foreign language learning as a part of the Ramaz tradition, even as those who know her can attest to the fact that she still thinks that French is the most beautiful language in the world. The award was endowed by her husband Jules Lassner z”l.

‫מתימטיקה‬ Liselotte Samuel Gorlin Award For Excellence in Mathematics

From the time she was a young woman at age 15, Mrs. Gorlin had a natural inclination and passion for mathematics and physics. In many ways, she was a thoroughly modern woman during a part of the twentieth century when expectations of women were different. She directed a home for refugee children in France during the early part of World War II until she fled from Paris to New York. While reestablishing her family and community on the Upper East Side, she tutored students in physics and math from morning until night. Mrs. Gorlin was the proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother of Ramaz graduates and students. The award was endowed by her son-in-law, Jules Lassner z”l.

‫מחשבים‬ Gorfinkle/Waldman Computer Science Award

‫חקר המדע‬ David Franklin Memorial Award

This computer award is given by Alaine Waldman Gorfinkle, past Chairman of the Mathematics Department at Ramaz, who became an expert in computers before popularization of this technology.

David Franklin taught for a number of years in the Ramaz Upper School when it was located at 22 East 82nd Street. He was passionate about his subject and about Ramaz students. We remember him with great fondness. The award in his memory is for outstanding work and dedication to the scientific method.

‫חקר הפיזיקה‬ Harvey Blech Memorial Award

This award for excellence in the study of physics is named in honor of Mr. Harvey Blech, a teacher at Ramaz for 14 years. Mr. Blech combined a rigorous commitment to the scientific method with a passionate commitment to Torah in its broadest sense. A man of many interests, Mr. Blech earned the respect of his students and colleagues in the

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library, in the laboratory, and on the basketball court.

DESCRIPTIONS ‫אומנויות‬ Fannye Popkin Memorial Award

Fannye Popkin was the mother of alumnus David Popkin and president of the KJ Sisterhood. In addition to her commitment to Jewish communal affairs, she was a patron of the arts who. in her Southern genteel, refined manner, conveyed to others a love and appreciation for the aesthetic.

‫אומנויות על הבמה‬

This award for performing arts is in memory of a Ramaz student who

Debby Sacks Award

was involved as a director and performed in student productions. While traveling to Israel with her family, Debby Sacks’ El Al flight was shot down over Bulgaria on July 27, 1955. Her father and sister were the sole survivors.

‫חקר השואה‬ Beatrice & Murray Kirschblat Holocaust Award

This award is presented by Ricki and David Bernstein, who were teachers at Ramaz, in memory of Ricki’s parents, survivors of the Holocaust.

Murray Kirschblat survived Dachau and Buchenwald, but lost his wife and two children in Treblinka. Beatrice Brauner Kirschblat survived the Lodz ghetto and Auschwitz by virtue of her skills as a seamstress. Given to the students who have demonstrated a commitment to Holocaust awareness and care for Holocaust survivors through their participation in Witness Theater.

‫הצטיינות בעיתונאות‬ Rifka Rosenwein Journalism Award

After graduating Ramaz in 1979, Rifka Rosenwein went on to study at Michlalah, Barnard, and Harvard. Her passion and talent for writing took a parallel course from the Rampage to The Wall Street Journal and The Jewish Week. She wrote as she lived, with a profound commitment to Torah, family, knowledge, and understanding. Rifka embraced her readers and her friends with wit and humor, optimism and faith, even in her ongoing battle with the illness that took her life in 2003. She is survived by her soulmate Barry Lichtenberg and her children, Akiva, Meir, and Miriam.

The award is granted to those seniors who best reflect Rifka’s midot, her commitment to a year of study in Israel, and excellence in journalism and writing.

‫ריקוד‬ Gloria Schrenzel Sheer Dance Award

An active dancer while a student at Ramaz, Gloria Sheer was the wife of Rabbi Charles Sheer, Columbia University chaplain and the mother of alumna Rachel. This award is dedicated by Gloria’s parents.

‫פוליטיקה‬

Sidney Scheinberg was dedicated to the Ramaz family for nearly 50

Sidney Scheinberg Award for Politics and Law

the interests of the school. This award, established in his honor, is for

years. He served as Vice Chairman of the board and always safegaurded commitment and outstanding performance in the fields of politics and law.

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ADMINISTRATION AND BOARD 2018-2019 UPPER SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Rabbi Eli Slomnicki Dean of Student Life

Rabbi Shlomo Stochel Head of Upper School

Miriam Krupka Dean of Faculty

Dr. Philip Wilner ‘75 Chairman

James Haber Treasurer

David Stonehill ‘86 First Vice-Chair

Erica Schwartz '93 Secretary

Tamara Winn Second Vice-Chair

Adam Kaplan Financial Secretary

Kenneth Aschendorf Mitchell Davidson Eli Dweck Dr. Stephanie Freilich

Dana Hiltzik ‘90 Pamela Rohr ‘78 Steven Schacter ‘68 David Schizer

ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS

Dana Cohen ‘84 Michael Englander '96 Joshua Kaufthal ‘92

Wendy Modlin ‘91 Abigail Tambor ‘92 Andrew Rechtschaffen ‘95 Rabbi Ethan Tucker ‘93 Diane Rein ‘87

COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

Nicole Dicker ‘88 Marjorie Lehman Sherri Libin

Shaul Nakash Drorit Ratzker ‘88 Sirena Silber

Randi Sultan Kenneth Tauber

PARENT BOARD MEMBERS

Yaira Binstock ‘97 Raymond Chalmé Joshua Crane ‘93

Randi Eisenstein Julie Feldman Michael Gerber ‘97

Jason Kollander Dr. Lori Zeltser

HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS

Harvey Beker Fred Distenfeld Lillian Eisman

David Gruenstein Robert Kapito Ilan Kaufthal

Dr. Jerry Kestenbaum Gail Propp

CHARTER TRUSTEES

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Jonathan Cannon Head of School

Honorary Chairs Steven R. Gross ’64 David N. Kahn ‘65 Lawrence A. Kobrin ‘50 Melvin D. Newman ’59 Arthur C. Silverman

Deborah Schwartz ‘87 Abbe Serphos ‘86 Alissa Shams

Collation sponsored by the Ramaz Alumni Association.

Each graduate thanks the Parents Council and Alumni Association for their gifts and good wishes.

The Ramaz Alumni Association would like to invite all first-time parents of alumni to join the mailing list.

Please contact alumni@ramaz.org for more information.

To endow an award please contact Kenny Rochlin Head of Institutional Advancement at kroch@ramaz.org or 212-774-8041.

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THE RABBI JOSEPH H. LOOKSTEIN UPPER SCHOOL in the Morris & Ida Newman Educational Center 60 East 78th Street New York, NY 10075 212-774-8070