Bialik College Foundation
2023 Annual Report
About the Bialik College Foundation
Message from Bialik Principal
Bialik College Foundation Committee
Pre-Launch of the Alan Finkel Launch Lab
Alan Finkel Launch Lab
Jewish Education: Scholarships and Bursaries
Gift in Wills: Supporting the Future of Jewish and Zionist Education
Embracing Success: Celebrating the Diverse Career Paths of Our Accomplished Alumni
Interview with Jeffrey Mahemoff AO
Bettie Kornhauser Science Week
Nurturing Wellbeing: Bialik’s Commitment to Support and Empowerment
Donations
Highlights
Foundation Membership
Thank You to Our Generous Supporters
Thank You to Our Supporters in 2023
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About the Bialik College Foundation
Joining the Bialik College Foundation provides an opportunity to invest in the future of Bialik and become part of a community that has the collective power to inspire excellence and improve access to Jewish education.
School fees and government grants cover the day-to-day running of the College. Our Foundation plays a pivotal role in enabling the College to continue to provide a world-class Jewish education for all of our children and grandchildren.
The Bialik College Foundation was established in 2014. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.`
B’yachad - Together: The Bialik Foundation
Our Purpose
The Bialik College Foundation supports the College in providing world-leading Jewish education, programs and facilities.
The Foundation is built on the generosity, commitment and spirit of our community.
Your support will ensure these opportunities exists for our current generation of students as well as future generations to follow.
Our Community
The Foundation is focused on creating a passionate and connected community of people who support the College and believe in creating the future leaders of tomorrow.
Pillars of The Foundation’s Vision
Standing Strong
Now more than ever, our identity as Jews, and as members of our Bialik community, is being challenged.
We pray for the safety and security of Israel and all its people, and we continue to advocate for and demand the return of the hostages from Gaza.
As a proud Zionist school, our Bialik family stands B’ Yachad / together, in support of Israel and of each other. Never have we been so proud to sing The Hatikvah (The Hope).
Message from Bialik Principal
Schools are complicated places! At first glance we are about teaching the ‘The R’s’ – Reading, Writing and Arithmetic, but fortunately we expect far more than that of ourselves.
We are keen to balance a number of priorities and outcomes. Inclusion, academic excellence, support for children with the full range of talents are just some of these. Bialik is proud to be the ‘school of choice’ for Hebrew (we have considerably more students than any other school in this subject area in the final years of schooling), as well for outstanding outcomes in terms of menschlichkeit (our children being considerate and kind citizens and community members) and at VCE.
Balancing all of these areas is a delicate act, and is made possible by having a dedicated teaching staff, a supportive parent body, a professional and driven board, and a Foundation that supports our mission.
Most important, and especially during these current troubled times, is our mission to ensure that Bialik is a home for all members of our community. We know that our parents make considerable sacrifices to ensure that their children are able to access a gold standard of Jewish education at Bialik. The opportunity of educating their children is a privilege that we accept humbly.
In many situations - indeed around 25% of Bialik families - means-tested financial support is necessary in order to be able to access the Bialik journey. Supporting this mission comes at considerable cost, and is to a large extent thanks to B’Yachad, the Bialik Foundation, that we are able to be so inclusive.
The Talmud tells us that All of Israel is responsible for one another (
If you are reading this Report it is likely that you are supportive of this mission.
This Annual Report outlines just some of the inclusion and excellence that is the Bialik journey. We should all be proud of what we are striving to achieve. We are striving for excellence in the character of our graduates, excellence in what they do, and excellence in what they achieve. Regardless of whether a child is on the highest level of fee assistance or a child or grandchild of a generous supporter, we are proud that when they put on a Bialik uniform and enter the grounds of our beautiful school, they are nurtured, supported, challenged and guided as one.
The hard work, dedication and commitment of every member of our community to achieve this mission is so appreciated.
Thank you.
Jeremy Stowe-Lindner Principal
Message From Foundation Chair
Never has our Foundation “B’ Yachad” been so aptly named. In 2023, B’ Yachad, “Together”, we have achieved so much.
In the darkness that was Covid and its associated lock downs, we had a dream. We dreamt of a Launch Lab, where all our students could dream. A hub for science and innovation where students could launch into learning and exploring, with open minds and passion.
Such a dream is never possible to contemplate, let alone deliver, without you. “B’ Yachad” we have brought our dream into reality and our children and grandchildren are thriving, under the guidance of our teachers and developed in partnership with our collaborators at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. This further deepens our commitment to the highest quality of learning through our world-renowned Cultures of Thinking approach.
I am always amazed, as I tour the College grounds, by the growth that I see. Of course, our children continue to grow, but so too do our teachers along with their programs and our incredible facilities. We are spoilt by our community’s hunger to grow, to learn and to improve and we are equally inspired by our community’s generosity and willingness to support our growth.
We should be so proud, collectively, of the opportunities we are providing to this generation of children to thrive in whatever their chosen path and to succeed as generous, caring and invested members of our Jewish community.
Bialik is proud of our world class facilities, faculty and education. We are equally proud of the support we can provide to so many families thanks to your ongoing generosity and commitment to provide access to this world leading Jewish education for all children. One in four of our students receives some form of financial assistance enabling them to attend Bialik College.
Of this, we should be most proud.
Thank you for your warm and generous spirit, for your ongoing interest in Victorian Jewish Education, and for working so closely with us B’ Yachad / Together.
Michael Carp Foundation Chair
Bialik College Foundation Committee
Our Foundation Committee includes our Board of Directors, together with a dynamic group of advisors, who work collaboratively to ensure a bright and sustainable future for the College.
Michael Carp Director Foundation Chair
Michael has three daughters who all attended Bialik College, with the last having graduated in 2022.
Michael joined the Bialik College Council and Foundation in 2017 and has been the Chair of The Foundation since October 2018. Michael also represents Bialik College as a Director of the Maccabi Aquatics NFP joint venture partnership between Maccabi Victoria and Bialik College.
Michael is a solicitor and is the owner and Managing Director of Kez’s Kitchen
Michael is a Director of Hide N Seek, an NFP organization and a past Director of Family Business Australia and JNF Australia, past committee member of Swimming Victoria’s Sport Innovation Committee, and the Baking Industry Association of Victoria.
Anna is a passionate Bialik alumnus, parent and foundation committee member.
She brings a strong sense of Bialik’s history and her own memories as a student to her vision for an affordable, communal and dynamic Bialik of the future. Anna is also Vice President of NCJWA Victoria.
Mr Jeffrey Mahemoff AO Director
Jeffrey is a Life Governor of Bialik College, a past Bialik parent and now a Bialik grandparent and was President of the Bialik College Council 1983-1999. He is currently a Trustee of the Melbourne Holocaust Museum Foundation, a Director of the Bialik College Foundation and a Governor of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
In June 2001, Jeffrey was appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia in recognition of his commitment to education and the Jewish community in Melbourne.
Wayne Lasky
Wayne is the Founder & Executive Chairman of MaxCap Group, responsible for business strategy, funds management and key stakeholder relations.
He is a recognised industry leader with 20 years of real estate and finance experience having worked on all sides of the table Wayne is also a YPO Australia member and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management. Wayne is an asset to furthering the success of the College and has two daughters currently studying at Bialik.
Peter is a past Bialik parent, College Treasurer and member of the Bialik Council since 2013.
Peter is passionate and focussed on the effective and efficient financial management of the College whilst working towards addressing the shorter and longer term affordability challenges.
Peter is also a management consultant and an actuary working in the dynamic and evolving energy sector.
Rebecca Adler
Rebecca Adler is a proud alumna of Bialik (Class of 2014) and Foundation Committee member.
She is deeply committed to enriching the Jewish community, believing in the foundational role of education in building Jewish identity and connection. As Director of Community and Innovation at Australian Jewish Funders, she has the privilege of working alongside communal organisations and leaders across Australia.
Peter Eben Director
Anna Serry Director
Bialik College Foundation Committee
Our Foundation Committee includes our Board of Directors, together with a dynamic group of advisors, who work collaboratively to ensure a bright and sustainable future for the College.
Jono Gelfand
Jono’s wife is a Bialik Alumnus and his 4 children have attended Bialik for all their schooling life.
Jono is very passionate about the role that Bialik plays in the Jewish and wider community and has always been impressed with the vision, education, environment and collaborations that Bialik offers to us all – particularly now.
Simon Marial
Bringing a forward-looking perspective to shaping Bialik’s future, Simon is a dedicated Bialik Alumnus (OC ‘18) and active member of the Alumni and Foundations Committees.
With expertise as an accountant at RSM, they foster strategic collaborations, envisioning innovative pathways for Bialik’s growth and impact.
Naomi Swart
Naomi is a current Bialik parent, Alumnus and President of the Parents’ Association.
She sees the benefits of working both in front line and at board level, establishing connections and collaborative relationships that make an impact for Bialik.
When she is not at Bialik, Naomi can be found assisting Pathways Melbourne as Vice President.
Pre-Launch of the Alan Finkel Launch Lab
In August 2023, over 130 supporters of the Bialik College Foundation gathered in the Bursztyn Family Learning Hub, part of the new Launch Lab building, for the exciting announcement of the newly named ‘Alan Finkel Launch Lab’.
During the event, Dr. Daniel Wilson, Principal Investigator at Project Zero, located within the Harvard Graduate School of Education, addressed attendees. Dr. Wilson’s extensive collaboration with Bialik College spans numerous years, particularly in conjunction with the ‘Cultures of Thinking’ initiative. His efforts have focused on transforming spaces, most notably contributing to Bialik’s centre for science and innovation: the Alan Finkel Launch Lab.
Alan Finkel Launch Lab
The Alan Finkel Launch Lab at Bialik, Bialik’s new home of science and innovation, is a testament to curiosity, exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge. Named in honour of Dr. Alan Finkel AC, a renowned Jewish scientist and passionate advocate for education, it embodies his spirit of inquiry and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Here, students are not just learners but explorers, empowered to dream big and create boldly. Dr Finkel’s legacy, marked by his distinguished career and unwavering dedication to scientific advancement, finds a fitting tribute in this space—a place where young minds can launch into the realms of discovery, equipped with the tools to shape a brighter, more innovative future.
The Alan Finkel Launch Lab at Bialik is a testament to the power of ideas and the boundless potential of those who dare to imagine.
Quantum Shabbat EventOfficial opening of the Alan Finkel Launch Lab
More than 1000 members of the Bialik College Family, including parents, students, staff, donors, and extended families, gathered on the lawns outside the Alan Finkel Launch Lab to celebrate its opening. The community was privileged to hear inspiring speeches from Josh Frydenberg, Dr. Alan Finkel AC, and Principal Jeremy Stowe-Lindner.
“There is nothing more precious to provide our children than a good education. Science is but one subject of the many that they must master, but it is particularly important for navigating the complex technological world in which they are growing up...Think about how you learn. If you are given a series of examples, you might miss the implied message. If you are given an explanation without examples, it might sail clear over your head. The best is when you are presented with both – the explanations and the examples. The Launch Lab is the environment where students experience seamlessly integrated explanations and examples. It is the environment where skills for life are reinforced in an engaging fashion.” - Alan Finkel
The afternoon concluded with a heartfelt Kabbalat Shabbat, featuring prayers and songs performed by the students.
This space—a place where young minds can launch into the realms of discovery, equipped with the tools to shape a brighter, more innovative future.
The Alan Finkel Launch Lab at Bialik is a testament to the power of ideas and the boundless potential of those who dare to imagine.
“I trust that you will be launched into the future, filled with understanding and capability, cultivated in a Launch Lab as good as any in the world.”
Dr Alan Finkel AC
Jewish Education: Scholarships and Bursaries
The Bialik Foundation remains dedicated to fundraising, with an important focus on the school’s scholarship and bursary program.
Rather than offering scholarships based solely on academic merit, the College channels its resources towards welcoming students from diverse economic backgrounds who might otherwise be unable to attend a Jewish school.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the generous donors listed below for their steadfast support.
Gandel Foundation Humanitarian Scholarship
This year, the Gandel Foundation Humanitarian Scholarship has provided a beacon of hope for a family affected by the crisis in Ukraine.
With the Gandel Foundation’s generous assistance, a student from Ukraine has been provided the incredible opportunity to complete their schooling at Bialik. We would like to thank the Gandel Foundation for their invaluable support of the Humanitarian scholarship. The Bialik Foundation appreciates the Gandel family’s generosity and commitment to empowering young minds.
Bialik is proud to offer several scholarships:
• Josh Frydenberg Scholarship
• Pratt Foundation Scholarship
• Ruben Fried Scholarship
• Richard and Margo Melzak Bursary
• Don Marejn and Sonia Marejn (née Szmukler) Bursary
• Henry & Gittle Makby Bursary
• Eric Smorgon Scholarship
• Anne Smorgon Memorial Scholarship
• Academic Scholarships
• Performing Arts Awards and Music Tuition Awards
• Council / General Excellence / President Awards
• Mark and Hilary Blankfield Scholarship
• Gandel Foundation Humanitarian Scholarship
Gift in Wills: Supporting the Future of Jewish and Zionist Education
We remember and wish to honour all who have generously left a gift in their will to Bialik College. May their legacy live on and continue to benefit the many generations of past, present and future students at Bialik.
Why leave a Gift in Will to the Bialik College Foundation?
Remembering Bialik in your will helps us continue to provide the necessary funds for exceptional, world-class education and make it accessible to all Jewish families.
Hirsch
Gift in Wills may compromise a percentage of an estate; cash, items of personal property, or real estate, and can be unrestricted or restricted. Bialik continues to experience increasing demand in enrolment enquiries from our community wishing to seek a secure and nurturing environment for their children. A Gift in Wills to Bialik College enables us to offer increased opportunities for our children to access top-tier Jewish education, irrespective of their socio-economic background, and build a robust foundation for our Jewish community’s future.
No matter the size your gift will make a difference!
Always seek proper legal advice when preparing any will and Gift in Will.
For further information about leaving a Gift in Will to Bialik College contact our Foundation Office email: foundation@ bialik.vic.edu.au
Alumni Events
A major focus in 2023 was reconnecting Alumni to each other and the school.
We have our reunions, and now, in the spirit of tikkun olam we also offer a range of collaborative events with Charities to make a positive impact on members of our community. These included C Care, Chag in a Box and also CSG where we offered a Krav Maga class for our Alumni in our new Alan Finkel Launch Lab building. It was wonderful to see our Alumni network reconnecting and giving back.
Embracing Success: Celebrating Diverse Career Paths of Our Accomplished Alumni
Rachel Gorski
Class of 1992
Rachael Gorski is a Veterinarian and reflects on how the Bialik teachers were integral in her realising her childhood dream of becoming a Vet. “The teachers pushed us hard and yet did it with real compassion…really wanting us to do our best.”
Jamie Bialkower
Class of 2003
After graduating, Jamie Bialkower worked for Village Roadshow in Exhibition and Distribution. He then started his own film production and distribution company “Jump Street Films”. “What I loved about Bialik was a sense of community, knowing everybody’s name and friendships.”
Sasha Fehily
Class of 2003
Sasha is a revered gastroenterologist working at St Vincent’s Hospital and Gastroenterology Specialists Melbourne, in Armadale. She is grateful for her Bialik experience and speaks of her connection to Bialik College continuing as a Bialik parent. “I loved the community feel which has really stood the test of time… I still walk in and feel that sense of familiarity and connection with the people around me even thought I haven’t seen them in so many years.”
Simon Blacher Class of 2001
Simon is a co-owner of The Commune Group and has helped create a hospitality empire. Some of his venues include Firebird, Hanoi Hannah, Moonhouse and Studio Amaro Simon reflects on his school-days and how he thrived at Bialik College. “The education is something that’s celebrated and well renowned, and I probably thrived because of that.”
Quick Catch-ups
Scan the QR Code, to watch our entertaining interviews where our former students reminisce about their favorite school moments and share exciting updates on their current endeavors. Join the fun as we catch up with our Alumni and see what they’re up to today.
Interview with Jeffrey Mahemoff AO
You have certainly been part of Bialik for a long time, how and when did it all start?
It was the mid-70s, when Lindy, the first of our three children, started at Bialik, that Helen and I became involved in parents’ association activities. In 1976, years 3 to 8 were transferred to a new site in Wantirna. It was soon recognised that this was not a good move and the purchase and planning for a new Hawthorn campus commenced. I was asked to assist in the building management programme for the first Auburn Road building which subsequently opened for students in 1981.
One year after joining the School Council I was elected President at the 1984 AGM. We were facing a dire situation: there were critical governance issues following a period of leadership instability, there were the repercussions of the Wantirna adventure on enrolments and the school’s finances and, in addition to all this, the announcement of a 50% cut in Federal funding for private schools. The 1985 battle to ‘save the school’ is well documented but suffice to say now looking back on that while Bialik’s financial reserves were entirely depleted, the determination of the Bialik family was not … parents and donors ‘stepped-up’, the school community rallied and, as they say – the rest is history.
Speaking of that history – in his autobiography the late Israel Kipen quotes Herzl with “there is nothing that stands in the way of the will” and then writes “that it must be recorded that Jeffrey Mahemoff as President was the decisive factor in the turnaround in the school’s fortunes. He found in himself the strength and endurance to lead under very demanding circumstances…” that’s impressive praise.
Yes, those compliments certainly did, and still do, mean a lot to me…. But of course, it was a team effort, a whole-of-community effort, that I had the privilege to lead. I knew I was taking on a huge challenge, but I also knew we had the potential of formidable support of the college parents and donors and, of course, the dedication of a few key individuals including Mark Blankfield, Leigh Goldbloom, Alan Goldstone and Steve Horton.
1990 - Bialik’s first VCE class - Sara Heitlinger, Jesse Zola, Leon Barmakov, Tanya Wolkenberg, Jeffrey Mahemoff (President), Beata Blinder, Robin Novy, Nathan Gurarie, Genia Janover (Principal), Nina Bilewicz (VCE co-ordinator), Michael Moszkowicz.
2024 Quantum Shabbat Event
2006 Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks visits Bialik
Gary Velleman & Jeffrey at the 2024 Quantum Shabbat
There must be some key learnings from those tumultuous days.
A hard way to learn but yes, there were lessons and messages that have informed and guided subsequent Councils and leaders… many would say mostly text-book governance stuff such as the separation of lay and professional responsibility and authority, the importance of strong financial planning and controls, the recognition of the power of community, and always the essential need for respect and empathy.
During your presidency 1985 - 1999 what were some of the most important, most controversial decisions that were made?
Not all the most important decisions were necessarily controversial; for example, the decision to appoint Genia Janover as Principal in June 1989 was a highlight and the best decision of my time …. Genia led the school to its full kinder to year 12 status and drew together an amazing team of educators. Genia headed Bialik’s growth in enrolments and achievement and drove the College’s recognition and reputation, both here and globally, as a leading educational institution. Very important, and controversial, was the decision in 1986 to proceed with full secondary through to VCE. Even though there was quite serious ‘pushback’ within our own school and beyond, I was convinced it was fundamental and was thankfully able to persuade others. We moved forward and in 1990 our first VCE class of eight students graduated and, within just a few years classes exceeded fifty. Looking back now it is impossible to conceive the outcome had a different conclusion been reached then!
to prioritise this objective as we see in the current campus, and which has just now culminated in the outstanding Alan Finkel Launch Lab.
And across all these decisions and years, what have been the constants you have witnessed?
Constants over the 40 years starts with Daphne Gaddie and Gary Velleman. But if you’re asking about the constants of ideals and ethos then I think our Mission, Vision and Values Statements say it all. While we may have refined and enhanced some of the words in those statements over the years, the core hasn’t changedand while the challenges may be very different, the fundamental objectives, aspirations, and ideals of the 2024 Bialik leadership are consistent with those of 1985.
What now and what next for Jeffrey at Bialik?
On a different front, in the 1980’s was a great debate regarding the quality and aesthetics of our proposed buildings; there were some who argued we should build ‘plain and simple’, save the money, nothing ‘flashy’ just basic classrooms. Fortunately, the prevailing view was - no, if we want our students to be creative, to be inspired, to be curious – then we need to provide great facilities in beautiful surroundings. We later learned that this approach was, in fact, a key part of the Reggio Emilio philosophy that “the environment is the third teacher”. Successive School Councils and professional leaders have continued
After all these years I am still not looking to withdraw completely! I am very happy to have been promoted to the position of Life Governor, and I’m happy to stay engaged with the Foundation, to assist with fundraising and to help support the school’s development and fee affordability initiatives. But most of all, I enjoy staying involved to witness successive generations of new, young, competent, and enthusiastic leaders join the Council and professional team and, of course, to share in the naches of their successes.
In my current role I have the opportunity to watch and admire Jeremy and his leadership team as they negotiate pathways through the many problematic issues facing our students and community in these difficult times. And it is particularly pleasing to see our Bialik families, staff and donors, just like in 1985, maintain their commitment and support of Bialik and Jewish education for all.
What advice would you give to others who are considering volunteering their time and skills to support their schools or communities?
Just-do-it…. our world is in serious need of repair. Each one of us can do something that will make a difference –whether it is for our school, or for sick kids, or advocacy for Israel, or feeding hungry people etc etc – it’s all Tikkun Olam, and from my own experience –very rewarding.
A lighter moment at the 1996 Campus dedication- Sam Smorgon AO, Peter Costello MP, Jeffrey Mahemoff, Ambassador Shmuel Moyal.
Opening of Besen Family Art & Technology Centre 2001 – Jack Gringlas, Ambassador Gabby Levy, David Kemp MP, Genia Janover, Marc Besen AO, Jeffrey Mahemoff AO.
2016 - Jeffrey Mahemoff AO, Helen Mahemoff and grandchildren Rafael, Jazmin & Asher
Bettie Kornhauser Science Week
Larry Kornhauser found a meaningful way to honour his dear mother, Bettie, and her passionate support for education by sponsoring Science Week at Bialik and the College’s Middle School Science Prize. Now a feature on the College’s annual calendar, Bialik’s Science Week aims to engage students in the wonders of science, to demonstrate how science links into every aspect of our everyday lives and to provide students with an opportunity to enjoy learning in ways that cannot always be carried out in a classroom.
As Larry explains: “On the day of my mother’s funeral in 2014, we received from her brother in America a 14 page handwritten autobiography which she wrote for school when she was 15, having escaped the Nazis with her family about 7 years earlier. In a section on School, my mother wrote: “My father tells me about the many times I came home crying because I was not allowed to sit with the other students. The reason of course was that I was Jewish and this was Germany in 1937.” Bettie told her brother later, that she was required to sit in a back corner of the classroom, known as “the Jew corner,” and wear a dunce cap with the word “Jew” on it. She ended her autobiography by saying “I intend to go on to college. After that I don’t know. I would like to be a radio director, but whether this dream will come true, or what the future holds for me is a complete mystery to me. I know that God has watched over me until now, I pray he continues to do so.”
Bettie never managed to complete college or become a radio director. Instead, she came to Australia at 19, met her husband Emil, stayed here and became a mother of three. However, she always highly valued education and gave generously to organisations and causes that support children who were in danger of missing a proper education through exclusion or disadvantage. Perhaps those few words in her autobiography, written at age 15 explain that lifelong commitment - and are why th Kornhuaser family dedicated Bialik’s Science Week and the College’s Science Prize to her.
The Alan Finkel Launch Lab was inspired by Larry Kornhauser, amongst others, and we are so pleased and proud he choose to continue his financial support of a Science Laboratory in the new Alan Finkel Launch Lab and continue his commitment to Bialik.
Nurturing Wellbeing: Bialik’s Commitment to Support and Empowerment
At Bialik College, community wellbeing is a priority. A dedicated team ensures regular support and education for all, with programs such as Resilience, Rights, and Respectful Relationships in the Early Learning Centre and social-emotional learning throughout the curriculum.
Middle and Senior School students benefit from Health and Wellbeing sessions, while Year 6 adds a social-emotional element. Expert presentations and staff support ensure a comprehensive approach, with ongoing initiatives like parent education sessions in 2024, emphasising trust, support, and holistic growth for everyone.
In 2020, with the generous support of a donor, a highly skilled child psychologist was welcomed to the ‘Health and Wellbeing Team.’ This addition offered students the essential physical, social, and emotional support necessary for thriving during challenging periods, such as the aftermath of the Pandemic and challenging adolescent years.
A Decade of Dogs for Life
In 2014, Bialik College was the first mainstream school in Australia to introduce dogs into the curriculum. 10 years ago, The Dogs for Life program was brought to the school by Head of ELC, Daphne Gaddie with the support of The Wilson family.
The program allows students from Prep to Year 2 to achieve educational goals and improve their emotional wellbeing, all with the help of man’s best friend. Dogs are a great way to teach students key concepts by showing rather than just telling. The children apply these important concepts elsewhere – for example, making new friends in the playground or respecting a stranger’s personal space.
Thank you to the Wilson family for their ongoing support of this special program at Bialik.
For more information on how you can contribute to Bialik’s Wellbeing team and programs aimed at supporting students with emotional challenges, please contact the Foundation Director at foundation@bialik.vic.edu.au
Foundation Membership
We invite you to become a member of The Bialik Foundation.
By becoming a member of the Bialik Foundation, you play a critical role in investing in our children and ensuring the continuity of Jewish life in our community for the future leaders of tomorrow.
Membership is based on cumulative giving and every donation to the College contributes towards Foundation membership. Foundation membership starts at $18,000 and may be pledged over a three-year period. Members are acknowledged in perpetuity on our Foundation Honour Board, website, and printed material. Foundation members are also recognised in The Bialik Foundation Annual Report. Members are also invited to exclusive events and receive regular communications and updates throughout the year.
The Journey of our Foundation Members
Members
New to Visionary 2023
Alan & Elizabeth Finkel
New to Benefactor 2023
Larry Kornhauser Family
New to Partner 2023
Dahlia Fried
Zac & Rebecca Fried
Maccabi Aquatics
David & Tauba Wilson
New to Fellow 2023
Edith Greiman
Membership Levels
Visionary
$1m+ Patron
$500,000 - $999,999
$250,000 - $499,999
$108,000 - $249,999
$36,000 - $107,999
$18,000 - $35,999
Thank You to Our Generous Supporters
Visionary
Marc & Eva Besen
Abe & Vera Dorevitch
Alan & Elizabeth Finkel
Jack & Dianne Gringlas
Joseph Hellen
Don & Sonia Marejn
Richard & Margot Melzak
Pratt Foundation
Greg Shalit & Miriam Faine
Sam & Minnie Smorgon
The Loti & Victor Smorgon Family
Patron
Graham Blashki Family
Bursztyn Family
Ashley Kausman & Lisa Mann
Spotlight Foundation
The Peter Szental Family
Benefactor
The George & Freda Castan Families
Ron & Judy Dodge & Family
Leigh & Yvonne Goldbloom
Leon & Judy Goldman
Graham & Deborah Goldsmith
Alan & Pam Goldstone
Larry Kornhauser Family
Krongold Family
Bori & Helen Liberman
Jeffrey & Helen Mahemoff & Family
The Jack & Robert Smorgon
Families Foundation
Partner
Tony & Kate Beaconsfield
Vann & Beata Fisher
Dahlia Fried
Zac & Rebecca Fried
Leo & Mina Fink Fund
Rodney & Deena Goldbloom
Barry & Barbara Landau
Wayne & Tamara Lasky
Maccabi Aquatics
Henry & Gittle Makby (Herzliya, Israel)
Barry Novy & Sue Selwyn
Irvin & Lynette Rockman
Danny & Uschi Schwartz
Graham & Annette Smorgon
Paul & Georgia Solomon
David & Tauba Wilson
Fellow
ANZ
Benni Aroni & Roz Kaldor-Aroni
Ian Berger
Mark & Hilary Blankfield
Grant Blashki & Lindy Castan
Barry & Lorraine Bloom
Philip & Vivien Brass
Barry & Suzi Carp
Bernard & Helen Carp
Leon & Marlen Carp
Michael & Emma Carp
Brian & Annette Chaitman
Antony & Helen Cohen
Daryl & Hannah Cohen
Trevor & Heather Cohen
Michael & Michelle Coppel
Dan & Elissa Feldman
David & Leah Freilich
Gandel Foundation
Larry & Naomi Gandler
Nigel & Leora Givoni
Ethel & Jack Goldin
Edith Greiman
Phillip & Pauline Grosman
Gunn Family
David & Lilly Harris
Sam & Jacky Hupert
Israel & Laura Kipen
Leonard & Yael Kipen
Sam & Rita Kras
Eddie & Helen Kutner
Robert Lehrer & Melissa Castan
Russell & Rossie Levy
Cassy Liberman
Joshua & Karen Liberman
Norman & Isabel Metz
In Memory of Reagan Milstein
Mark & Dina Munzer
Naphtali Family
Joe & Sandra Nowoweiski
David & Sonia Payes
Julia Feitel Pearl Trust
Harry & Rita Perelberg
Vivien Rosenfeld & Ronit Fraid
Ross & Glanc Families
Adam & Yoko Ryan & Family
Leon & Vivienne Serry
George & Bella Shannon
Alex Slade
Graham & Mary Slade
The Troski Family
Philip & Gaye Weeden
Bradley & Tami Wein
Lynne Wilson
Member
Paul & Sharon Bassat
Peter & Tracy Berkowitz
Barry & Marilyn Braun
Breckler Family
Brandon & Nicky Carp
Leon & Ann Cebon-Glass
Cheng & DengYing Chen
Dean & Tanya Cherny
Richard & Danielle Davies
Simon & Lisa de Winter
Joel & Stacey Dodge
Marty & Natalie Dodge
Ken & Lisa Fehily
Marc Felman
Alex & Isabel Fibishenko
Daniel & Annalisa Fink
Gerard & Fay Fitt
Eli & Kerry Goldfinger
Michael & Ann Greiman
Paul & Jini Grinwald
Holckner Family
David & Rhonda Jacobson
Allan & Sue Kalus
Leon & Ilana Kempler
Simcha & Zofia Kipen
Jingxing Li & Jane Sun
Mark & Danielle Lissek
Danny Mac
Kevin & Debbie Milstein
Kevin & Deanne Nestadt
David & Rhonda Nussbaum
Morris & Orleigh Ritz
Louis & Shirley Rutman
Andrew & Bettina Schwartz
Nathan & Ruth Shafir
Alan & Philippa Sheppet
Steven & Lousje Skala
Mark & Amanda Slade
Graeme & Suzanne Southwick
Paul & Aimee Southwick
Mark & Lisa Sweet
Warson Len & Kalus Henry
Len Warson & Henry Kalus
Lenny & Elana Warson
Phillippe & Marilyn Zimet
Leon Zwier
We acknowledge the passing of Foundation Members this past year. May their memory be a blessing.
Marc Besen Z”L
Lorraine Elsass Z”L
Gittle Makby Z”L
Edith Greiman Z”L
A Special Thank You to Bialik Grandparents and Special Friends
At the Bialik Foundation, we value our students’ grandparents and special friends. Your presence enriches, nurturing cherished bonds. Your love and guidance shape futures, leaving lasting impressions.
You are an essential part of the community, whether you volunteer at the Shuk, collect your grandchildren from school, attend school events, or in any of the numerous other ways you contribute to enriching our students’ lives.
We are grateful for the vital role you play in the Bialik Family.
The Bialik College Foundation would like to acknowledge the legal support provided by Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL).
Under the guidance of ABL partner, Joey Borensztajn AM, the ABL team has been providing pro bono legal advice to the Foundation since its inception in 2014.
We thank Joey and the team for their continued guidance and service to our College and we are grateful to Arnold Bloch Leibler for their support of Jewish education at Bialik.
Thank You to Our Supporters in 2023
Gavin & Beverly Allen
Ezra & Charlie Artman
Gary Adler & Suzanne Silberberg
Trevor Ausbruch & Nicky Dobos
Theo Axarlis & Wendy Gaddie
Tony & Kate Beaconsfield
Omer & Tamara Ben-Moshe
Michael Bereszkowski & Judy Lang
Danny & Alyssa Berkovitch
Judy Berman
Michael & Jackie Birnbaum
Mark & Hilary Blankfield
Graham Blashki & Evelyn Firstenberg
Gregory & Julie Blashki
Barry & Marilyn Braun
Jack & Nini Briskin
Morris & Janice Broder
Ellis & Liana Brover
Philip & Leah Bruder
Anthony & Jackie Bursztyn
Joe & Pam Bursztyn
Tim & Romy Bursztyn
Bursztyn Family
Daniel Cao & Rachel Wang
Bernard & Helen Carp
Leon & Marlen Carp
Michael & Emma Carp
Cheng & DengYing Chen
Dean & Tanya Cherny
Ben & Rachel Coppel
Val Danilov & Irma Danilova
Beverley Davis
Rohan & Monique Davis
John & Danielle Deane
Joel & Stacey Dodge
Marty & Natalie Dodge
Ron & Judy Dodge
Dodge Family
Estate of Vera & Abe Dorevitch
Jules & Georgia Dunne
Maurice & Fiona Efron
David Egan & Elena Abran
Lorraine Elsass
Paul & Sarah Engelman
David & Talya Erenboim
David Faiman & Helen Kliur
Adam & Naomi Feldman
Alan & Kim Feldman
Dan & Elissa Feldman
Isaac & Judith Feldman
Nathan & Helena Feldman
Barry & Kaye Fink
Daniel & Annalisa Fink
Leo & Mina Fink Fund
Kevin & Andrea Frank
David & Tracey Fried
Zac & Rebecca Fried
Ron & Natasha Fuchs
Gandel Foundation
Michael & Laura Gelb
Jonathan & Kelly Gelfand
Michael Givoni
David Goberman
Alex & Yael Goichman
Anne Goldberg
Rodney & Deena Goldbloom
Raph Goldenberg & Samari Jayarajah
Andrew & Matisse Goldsmith
Graham & Deborah Goldsmith
Alan & Pam Goldstone
Justin Graham &
Caroline Cohen
Irina Granovskaia
Daniel Green
Edith Greiman
Jack & Dianne Gringlas
Gideon Gunn
Brian & Natalie Hamersfeld
Peter Hansen & Samantha Wray
Boaz & Elizabeth Herszfeld
Julian & Tabatha Herzel
Mark Holckner
Lee Howard
Daniel Ingram & Alex Feldman
Barbara Jacob
Tal & Rachel Jagoda
Tao Jin & Yan Yang
Adam Joske & Audrey Dalal
Andrew Kemp & Vivienne Groves
Boris & Svetlana Khasin
Omer & Inna Kimchi
Adrian & Elle Kister
Larry Kornhauser & Natalya Gill
Sam Koronczyk & Alya Nusbaum
Dan & Lara Krasnostein
Toby Krasnostein
Max Kupershmidt & Yana Itskovich
Uri & Ilana Ladowsky
Barry & Barbara Landau
Joe Landi
Wayne & Tamara Lasky
Mathew Lazarow & Deborah Pose
Daniel & Fiona Leighton
Craig & Melanie Levin
Harry & Gloria Lew
Jingxing Li & Jane Sun
Joy Lobo
Rosalind Loff
Sol & Melissa Lukatsky
Mark & Meaghan Lust
Maccabi Aquatics
Jeffrey & Helen Mahemoff
Joel Mahemoff & Neda Haghighi
Raz Maisner & Karen Dunwoodie
Jamie & Elana Melzak
David & Kelly Naphtali
Tamara Newing
Maurie Novak & Shlomit Rubinstein
Barry Novy & Sue Selwyn
Arie & Natalie Nudel
David & Rhonda Nussbaum
Nick & Allana Peden
Anton & Emma Peleg
Tamara Perchyonok
Justin Perelberg & Angela Fox
Gary & Susan Pincus
Boris Poliak & Elena Varshavskaya
Gideon & Debbie Poratt
Adam Posner & Kate Davis
Anthony Pratt & Claudine Revere
Pratt Foundation
Eduard & Alla Pudel
Michael & Judy Raleigh
Deborah Zylberstein Reed
Adam & Samantha Rogers
Brian Rom & Rora Furman
Lauren Rose
Jeremy & Lauren Rosenbaum
Adam & Elana Rosenberg
Emma Rosenberg
Simon & Nicole Rosenberg
Ian Rosenfeld
Adam & Yoko Ryan
Naomi Ryan
Saul & Lauren Ryan
Nathan Sable
Michal Sagie Schildkraut & Yuval Schildkraut
Haim Sattler & Steph Rennie
Jason & Kim Scher
Nici Schueler
Danny & Uschi Schwartz
Joel & Ariella Ser
David & Anna Serry
Gaby & Michal Shapiro
Glen & Natalie Sheezel
Barry & Naomi Sher
Justin & Robyn Sherwin
Stephen & Louise Shostak
Brad & Rachel Smorgon
Graham & Annette Smorgon
Michael & Hayley Smorgon
Minnie Smorgon
Dale Solomon & Luciano Ferreira
Paul & Georgia Solomon
Sasha & Madeline Soloveychik
Graeme & Suzanne Southwick
Paul & Aimee Southwick
Spotlight Foundation
James Steedman & Anna Plotkin
Karson & Jessica Stimson
Dan & Emma Swart
Elliot & Naomi Swart
Mark & Lisa Sweet
Max Szental
Kadi Tang & Michelle Zhang
Mark & Julia Teperson
Eugene & Milla Teplitsky
Richard & Danielle Thurston
Mark & Caroline Troski
Rachelle Unreich
Robert & Manya Van Aken
John Wayne & Lara Alexander
David Weissman & Natalie King
David & Tauba Wilson
Eden & Anne Winter
Tom & Rachel Winter
Tyson & Marni Wodak
Jason & Cassie Wrobel
Mark & Lana Zuker
Ron & Georgia Zukerman
Sandra Zwier
