Gallery of Grads 2026

GALLERY OF GRADS

MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 1

Gallery of Grads2 A Cleveland Jewish News Advertising Special Section

Solon resident and Solon High School alumnus Zachary Gottlieb, front row left, celebrates graduation day May 10 with fellow members of Indiana University’s Class of 2026 in front of Merchants Bank Field at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington. | Photo / Melissa Gottlieb

2 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

GALLERY OF GRADS

Justin Bilsky Age: 18 Graduation Date: May 31 High School: Orange High School College: The Ohio State University in Columbus Residence: Pepper Pike Synagogue: Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwood Jewish Activities: BBYO Parents: Scott and Amy Bilsky

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enior Justin Bilsky will graduate from Orange High School in Pepper Pike on May 31 after a high school career packed with sports, clubs and Jewish organizations.

Bilsky played on the school’s baseball team for four years and was on varsity for his final two seasons. He was also a member of Orange’s student government for three years, French Club every year he was in high school, first chair in concert band playing the clarinet and first chair in jazz band playing the saxophone.

Outside of school, though, is where Bilsky found himself in his most important role, he said. Since eighth grade, Bilsky has been a member of BBYO, a Jewish organization that provides opportunities for teens to build leadership skills, do community service, connect with their Jewish heritage and socialize.

Last year, Bilsky was BBYO president (Godol) of the Ohio Northern Region covering Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown, Canton and Toledo. He said it was a big step for him personally and provided him with leadership experience.

“I was able to go to all of the chapter programs with kids from the region,” Bilsky said. “I got to help plan events and

help lead the region.”

In the fall, Bilsky plans to attend The Ohio State University in Columbus. He said he believed it didn’t matter what school he went to, and that he would be able to make friends no matter where he was. Despite that, there were a few other factors that made Ohio State the perfect university for him, he said.

“I think college is what you make of it, and I could go make friends at a lot of different schools,” Bilsky said. “So, why not go to one with a great football team and it is a perfect distance from home. I already know a lot of people that go there, and they love it.”

At Ohio State, Bilsky plans to follow in his older brother’s footsteps by majoring in psychology. His interest in the field grew during his senior year after taking Advanced Placement psychology, a class he said he loved. Encouraged by his brother’s positive experience in OSU’s psychology program, Bilsky said he is excited to pursue the major while still keeping his future career options open.

Bilsky also plans to minor in communications because of a school project he had his senior year. He loves writing and public speaking, so he thinks it’ll be a very interesting minor to have.

Once in Columbus, Bilsky hopes to get involved in a variety of clubs and campus programs. So far, the one commitment he knows for certain is joining the club baseball team.

– London DeMarco is the Karen and Richard Spector intern at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.

Justin Bilsky will enter The Ohio State University in Columbus this fall. | Submitted photo

GALLERY OF GRADS

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4 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

Adler Chefitz Age: 17 Graduation Date: May 31 High School: Orange High School College: Georgetown University Residence: Moreland Hills Jewish Activities: Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Saltzman Youth Panel and counselor at Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland’s J-Day Camps.

Parents: Josh Chefitz and Tyler Katz

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dler Chefitz, a 17-year old, who is graduating from Orange High School in Pepper Pike on May 31, plans to attend Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Washington, D.C., in the fall.

Chefitz decided to attend Georgetown because of its beautiful and vast groups of different identities that will help her find connections with many different kinds of people, she said. She also realized that there is a big Jewish community at Georgetown, despite it being a Catholic school.

“At first, I didn’t want to look at Georgetown because it is Catholic, and my Jewish identity is something that is really important to me,” Chefitz said. “When I visited, I realized that Georgetown’s whole emphasis was on religious unity and togetherness. They also have a really thriving Jewish community there as well.”

On top of the spiritual and community aspect, Chefitz said she fell in love with Georgetown’s world renowned International Affairs program, which is what Chefitz dreams of going into. She didn’t fully decide she wanted to go into foreign affairs until last summer, as she was debating between a few different fields of study.

“I’d been debating political science, history and

economics,” Chefitz said. “I think what made me choose foreign affairs is because I really want to help people and see the world while I’m at it.”

Chefitz chose to study foreign affairs because she believes her skills and interests align well with the field.

After being accepted to Georgetown University, Chefitz said she stopped applying to other schools because she already knew it was where she wanted to be.

At Orange, Chefitz was part of the Saltzman Youth Panel of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland last year, and also has been a Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland J-Day Camp counselor for the past few years, specifically the performing arts camp.

Chefitz participated in her school’s Model UN, where she was president. She also is part of Orange’s theater program and was the drama club president. Outside of school, she is part of the Interfaith Group Against Hate. The group was a big factor in bringing Chefitz to wanting to major in foreign affairs, she said.

“It’s a lot of synagogues, churches and mosques responding to acts of hate and trying to find togetherness in the community,” Chefitz said about Interfaith Group Against Hate. “It’s something that really brought me towards what I want to do.”

Chefitz is also part of the Life Action advisory board, which is a suicide prevention group for Northeast Ohio, and it has a youth aspect that Chefitz is part of.

She is already planning to join clubs at Georgetown that will help further her knowledge of international affairs outside of classes. She wants to join their International Affairs Club as well as participate in some community

Adler Chefitz will attend Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., in the fall. | Submitted photo service. She is also looking at joining Georgetown’s theater program, a capella group and/or dance team.

– London DeMarco London DeMarco is the Karen and Richard Spector intern at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.

Madison Glass Age: 18 Graduation Date: May 24 High School: Western Reserve Academy in Hudson College: University of South Carolina Residence: Solon Jewish activities: Friendship Circle of Cleveland, Jewish Student Union Parents: Michael and Samantha Glass

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fter attending a small private high school, Madison Glass has decided to pack her bags and head to the sunny coast of South Carolina and attend the University of South Carolina in Columbia.

While attending Western Reserve Academy, Glass stayed actively involved in campus life, participating in a variety of clubs, including several Jewish organizations.

Glass was co-president of the “Bring Change to Mind” club, which focuses on mental health. The members normalize conversations about mental health, and typically host events like affirmation mirror crafting, gratitude tree displays and stress-reduction sessions, she said.

The Jewish Student Union at Western Reserve Academy was another club Glass was the co-president of. She said it helped her connect stronger with the Jewish community. “We would have Shabbat dinners together,” Glass said about the Jewish Student Union. “We would also make Holocaust Remembrance

Day announcements, have small celebrations for holidays and we’ve even done sukkahs before.”

A tour of the University of South Carolina campus convinced Glass it was the right fit for her. A combination of factors aligned during the visit and made her realize she wanted to attend the university.

“I think I realized after my tour,” Glass said. “It was mostly the weather, and they have a really strong nursing program. So, those were the main things.”

Glass also liked the size of the school, with just under 60,000 students, because of how small of a high school she went to.

She wanted the “experience of a big school,” she said.

After spending years working with children with special needs at The Friendship Circle of Cleveland, Glass discovered a passion for nursing. She said the experience was something she loved and described as “life-changing.”

Glass said she wants to quickly express her interests at South Carolina by joining clubs. She plans to join the pre-health club to further her nursing knowledge outside of the classroom. She also wants to become involved with Hillel and rush a sorority.

– London DeMarco London DeMarco is the Karen and Richard Spector intern at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.

Madison Glass plans to get involved with Hillel at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. | Submitted photo

GALLERY OF GRADS

MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 5

Sloan Gurney Age: 18 Graduation Date: June 4 High School: Shaker Heights High School College: The Ohio State University in Columbus Residence: Shaker Heights Synagogue: Park Synagogue Parents: Todd and Julie Gurney

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s Sloan Gurney prepares to graduate from Shaker Heights High School on June 4, she reflected on everything she did in high school, making sure she got involved and gained experience in many different areas.

She was part of the Mano en Mano club, which is the school’s Spanish language and cultural club, where members partner with an organization that has ties to a South American country, and they would raise money and donate it to that organization.

Gurney was also a part of Student Group on Race Relations, where members would go to the Shaker Heights elementary schools three times a year and give children lessons on race, diversity, inclusion and more. On top of those, Gurney was also a Raider Representative and a member of Model UN. In April, Gurney committed to The Ohio State University in Columbus despite some personal doubt.

“I wasn’t planning on going there,” Gurney said. “But then I went and visited in April, and I loved it so much.”

Gurney said Ohio State’s location also appealed to her,

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describing Columbus as “the perfect distance from home.”

She also came to realize how highly regarded Ohio State is and how many students consider it their dream school.

Gurney applied to OSU as a psychology major, though she said she is no longer sure she wants to pursue that field. While she continues to explore her options and keep an open mind, she said she is considering switching to marketing.

To help with marketing, Gurney plans on joining a business fraternity.

“I have a friend in it (business fraternity), and she said it helped her make so many great connections,” Gurney said.

“She’s met so many friends, and now she feels really well connected with the business community at OSU.” Gurney also plans to rush a sorority next year at Ohio State. While she does not have a specific one in mind, she said she hopes to keep an open mind throughout the rush process.

After an active high school experience filled with involvement in a variety of social clubs, Gurney plans to continue that level of engagement in college to help ease her transition into campus life.

– London DeMarco London DeMarco is the Karen and Richard Spector intern at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.

Sloan Gurney plans to get involved with social clubs upon arriving at The Ohio State University in Columbus in the fall. | Submitted photo

6 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

GALLERY OF GRADS

Imre Huss Age: 18 Graduation Date: June 7 High School: Mastery School of Hawken College: University of Virginia Residence: Cleveland Heights Jewish activities: Volunteer and fellow at Friendship Circle of Cleveland and president of the Jewish Cultural Alliance Parents: John and Joanna Huss

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lending academic curiosity with civic engagement, Mastery School of Hawken senior Imre Huss built a high school career defined by both intellectual depth and community impact. This fall, Huss will take those passions to the University of Virginia of Charlottesville as a recipient of the Jefferson Scholarship, a full ride award, where he will study political and social thought and economics.

“I’ve done a lot of work in the democracy space and thinking about what our political systems should look like,” Huss said.

“My high school was very applied, so I’ve been able to see the interactions of political and social systems. I did a class in public policy, public health and urban ecology, and I want to study those systems at a greater depth.”

While attending Mastery School of Hawken, Huss was a founding member of the Ultimate Frisbee team and played soccer. In addition to sports, he was the founder, editor-in-chief and co-teacher of “Mastery: The Student Research Journal,” which publishes student research papers in a wide variety of topics.

“It grew into being the largest academic organization on our campus,” Huss said. “We publish anything from papers on Shakespearean literature and the printing press to biomechanics, constitutional law, and an incredibly wide range of topics.”

Outside of his school endeavors, Huss found a passion for ecology and advocacy in public policy.

“I co-led a campaign in Cleveland Heights to protect a natural area at the edge of my neighborhood, and that tied into my interest in ecology and sustainability,” Huss said. “I also co-founded a civic technology platform in Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights and the city of Cleveland that simplifies legislation and makes elections more accessible.”

As part of his scholarship, Huss was invited to fly to the University of Virginia to meet with other scholars in his cohort.

Based on the values of Thomas Jefferson, Huss said that the school appealed to him as a place to further his education.

“They were very intellectually vibrant and doing really cool things in the world, but they were also simultaneously enjoying themselves in college,” he said. “There was a really great balance of applied work in the world and level of intellectual depth in the classroom.”

Huss said that he plans on getting involved in Jewish life on campus, having already visited the Chabad and Hillel, as well as playing Ultimate Frisbee, and participating in clubs related to the energy sector and civil discourse.

Imre Huss has received the Jefferson Scholarship at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. | Submitted photo

– Casey Couch

Gavriel Lappen Age: 17 Graduation Date: May 26 High School: Beachwood High School College: University of Maryland Residence: Beachwood Synagogue: Congregation Shaarey Tikvah in Beachwood Jewish Activities: BBYO, icnext, Israeli Culture Club Parents: Justin and Rachel Lappen

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he sky is not the limit for Gavriel Lappen.

The 17-year-old Beachwood High School senior will be attending the University of Maryland in College Park in the fall to study aerospace engineering.

He chose it over The Ohio State University in Columbus because of its proximity to the nation’s capital as well as NASA. His grandfather helped encourage his future career by showing him pictures of astronauts such as Neil Armstrong.

“And other space stuff,” he said. “I was always interested in space. I’d always wanted to go to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, but we were unable to go.”

Lappen entered Beachwood High School after attending Gross Schechter Day School in Pepper Pike through eighth grade. His favorite subject has been math, including three years of Advanced Placement math classes. With a 4.3 grade-point average, he was tapped for National Honor Society his junior year.

Sports has been a big part of his high school career. He played varsity golf, baseball and ice hockey, earning letters in all three.

He was named the school’s athlete of the week four times, and was a scholar-athlete all four years in each varsity sport.

Of his three varsity sports, ice hockey is his favorite. Until this year, he played for different club teams, but this year, a rule change permitted him to play for Shaker Heights High School’s team as Beachwood does not have an ice hockey team.

He’ said he would like to continue playing sports in college.

“I’d like to try to play club for sure,” he said. “I’m not ready to give it up yet.”

His Jewish faith is a major influence in Gavriel’s life, he said. He is a four-year member of the Israeli Culture Club at Beachwood and has spent two months of the last six summers at Camp Ramah in the Eagle River area near Conover, Wis. This year, he returns as a camp counselor.

Lappen has been to Israel several times, including two weeks with @akiva for teens icnext in 2024. He also spent 10 days in Poland in 2025.

Gavriel also participated in the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s 2025 Maurice Saltzman Youth Panel, made up of high school juniors and seniors who allocate grant funds to 17 programs that support Jewish communities.

“I learned a lot,” he said. “It was pretty cool.”

Lappen said he has always been curious about outer space and how the universe works.

He did not miss last month’s splashdown of the Artemis II as it returned from the NASA moon mission, but said that being an astronaut is not on his bucket list.

“If I were offered the opportunity to go into space, I’d do it,” Lappen said. “But it’s a huge risk.”

– Martha Sorohan

Gavriel Lappen will study aerospace engineering at the University of Maryland in College Park in the fall. | Submitted photo

GALLERY OF GRADS

MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 7

Elliot Niefach Age: 18 Graduation Date: May 21 High School: Solon High School College: The Ohio State University Residence: Solon Synagogue: Temple Emanu El in Orange Jewish Activities: Jewish Culture Club Parents: Rob and Jill Neifach

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lliot Neifach has dreamed of attending The Ohio State University in Columbus for as long as he can remember. His father being an alumni is what led to his lifelong love for the University.

That dream becomes a reality now that he is a graduate of Solon High School and will head to Columbus in the fall.

“I’ve grown up around Ohio State since I was born,” Neifach said. “Of course, everything was up in the air, and I didn’t know if I was going to get in, but I’ve wanted to go to Ohio State since I can remember, and it’s always been my No. 1 school.”

Neifach plans on majoring in business, rooted from his father working at Progressive Corporation, the Northeast Ohiobased insurance provider, he said. While his father was working at Progressive, Neifach noticed how much it helped his father in the real world and the number of opportunities it created.

He later toured Ohio State, where he learned more about its business program and the many opportunities it offers.

“There are plenty of opportunities for internships, both at Ohio State and just around the country,” Neifach said. “So, I thought majoring in business would be really nice for my

future.”

Neifach’s passion for music has made deciding on a college major difficult, as he is still uncertain whether business is the right path for him.

He said he has loved music since he was 5 years old, and in high school, he began turning that passion into reality.

He participated in the Solon marching band for four years and was also a part of the school’s musical pit orchestra, jazz band and choir band.

Despite participating in all of those programs, he never thought of it as a career until he talked with his band directors.

“My band directors played a huge part in my life,” Neifach said. “I got to shadow one of my old band directors for senior project and see what being a band director was like. I thought, if I could make this into a career, that’d be awesome.”

Neifach’s Jewish identity has also been very important to him throughout his life, calling his synagogue, Temple Emanu El in Orange, home of many memories and family celebrations. He was also part of his school’s Jewish Culture Club, showcasing what being Jewish is all about. This helped him grow closer with Solon’s Jewish community.

While Neifach still plans to study business, he is considering making it his minor while pursuing majors in music and music education.

No matter what he ends up majoring in, he still plans on bringing his love for music to Columbus. Neifach hopes to try out for Ohio State’s world renowned marching band, affectionately known as “The Best Damn Band in the Land,”

Elliot Niefach will decide between majoring in business and music when he attends The Ohio State University in Columbus. | Submitted photo while also joining the athletic band over the winter and some sort of jazz band. He said he also hopes to start his own band while at Ohio State.

– London DeMarco London DeMarco is the Karen and Richard Spector intern at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.

Mazal Tov to our Class of 2026

Our Graduates will be attending:

Beachwood High School CH/UH High School Hawken School Orange High School Shaker Heights High School Solon High School University School Our Class of 2022 was accepted at: Binghamton University Bowling Green Elon Hamilton College Indiana Honors Kent State University Miami of Ohio Honors Ohio State Scholars Ohio State University Ohio University

Top Row (from left to right): Violet Venezia, Lily Bacik, Talia Pomeranets, Eden Cohen, Sasha Silverman, Maya Zelin, Tatum Mears Middle Row (from left to right): Eric Hagesfeld, Roy Ost, Ethan Shapiro, Yonatan Rub: Bottom Row (from left to right): Dylan Levy, Akiva Palley, Gabriel Brown-Ross, Amichai Palley, Jayden Catanese, Garrett Resnick, Yali Lazarovitz, Izzy Swirsky, Ariel Haber

Rutgers University University of Cincinnati Honors University of Denver University of Maryland University of South Carolina University of Wisconsin Wright State University Yeshivat Lev Hatorah

GALLERY OF GRADS

8 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

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“I always say that the libraries are great,” Schneider said with a chuckle. “Lots of time in the libraries.”

Spending time surrounded in the quiet stillness of the library surrounded by books and fellow students buried in their class material is to be expected when studying to become a physician’s assistant.

Schneider, a Solon High School graduate, is well on her way to becoming one after successfully obtaining her master’s degree from Ohio University in Athens with her master’s degree in physician assistant practice. She went through OU’s program at the Dublin Integrated Education Center right outside of Columbus.

“It’s definitely a long time coming,” she said. “A lot of hard work and dedication since high school to get into PA school, all of the prerequisites I had to take. I spent a lot of time studying. I had to sacrifice some social things. But I knew that it would all be worth it one day, and now that day has come. I’m excited to finally start my career.”

Lindsay Schneider graduated from Ohio University in Athens on May 1. | Submitted photo

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A shoulder surgery during Schneider’s junior year of high school sparked her eventual career path. After asking a lot of questions, the surgeon told her she should look into going to PA school.

“I was like, ‘What? What’s a PA?’ When I went home from that follow-up appointment, I looked it up and was like, ‘Wow, this seems like the best fit for me.’”

Schneider graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. She then took a gap year in Chicago, working to get patient care hours, before heading to the Columbus suburb of Dublin.

“If you would have asked me even a year ago if I was going to be looking for a job in Columbus, I would not have believed you,” she said. “I’ve really learned to love the city and the people. They have a great medical system here, so there is a lot of job opportunities, and there are a lot of young people here, so there are opportunities to make friends and be social.”

Schneider passed her board exam and is now looking for employment in cardiology around the Columbus area.

“I’m excited to be able to teach patients about their diseases and what they can do to help themselves and tell them about how we can help them live a healthier and longer life,” she said.

- Jimmy Oswald

GALLERY OF GRADS

MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 9

Ari Smith Age: 23 Graduation date: May 28 High School: Fuchs Mizrachi School in Beachwood College: Yeshiva University Residence: Manhattan, N.Y. Jewish activities: NCSY and Sacks Leadership Scholars at Yeshiva University Parents: Tamar and Elliot Smith

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fter earning a bachelor’s degree in political science, Yeshiva University class of 2026 graduate and former Beachwood resident Ari Smith will hit the books one more time as he prepares to continue his education at law school following his undergraduate studies.

“I’ve always thought about going to law school, and when I got to college, I started thinking more seriously about what I wanted to do,” Smith said. “I came to the conclusion that the best way to use my skills would be to go to law school.”

Smith, who hopes to pursue real estate or corporate law, said his time at Yeshiva University prepared him to further his education, as well as offered him an opportunity to connect with a community of Jewish scholars with similar values and interests.

“I was surrounded by like-minded people, which was great,” Smith said. “I got to pray three times a day in a safe area with my friends, I got to study Torah in the mornings and have it count as college credit, and the rabbis on campus offered great guidance and shabbat services.”

In particular, Smith said he really valued celebrating the holidays on campus, lighting the menorah together and

Ari Smith will pursue a career in real estate or corporate law as he considers which law school to attend next. | Submitted photo

participating in the “Cram and Crunch” study sessions with kosher food during finals weeks. Moreover, being in a safe place where he didn’t experience antisemitism, he said, was of the utmost importance.

“The opportunity to practice Judaism safely with all of our community is what I appreciated the most about Yeshiva University,” he said.

Growing up in Cincinnati, Smith said his family always valued involvement and education in the Jewish community. After moving to Ohio in ninth grade to attend Fuchs Mizrachi School in Beachwood and pray at Green Road Synagogue, also in Beachwood, Smith said that his day

school education helped set him up for success.

“My family made the decision to move to Cleveland, and my parents have been there ever since,” Smith, who enjoys reading and playing baseball, said. “I loved my time there, my friends from there are still my great friends, and I really appreciated the education they gave me. They set me up for success.”

Although he has not yet decided on which law school to attend, Smith said he is looking forward to continuing his education and may return to Beachwood eventually.

– Casey Couch

GALLERY OF GRADS

10 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

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Age: 18 Graduation Date: May 21 High School: Solon High School College: Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics Residence: Solon Synagogue: Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwood Jewish activities: BBYO and Jewish Culture Club Parents: David and Lori Toth

Age: 18 Graduation Date: May 21 High School: Solon High School College: Kent State University and Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics Residence: Solon Synagogue: Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwood Jewish activities: BBYO and Jewish Culture Club Parents: David and Lori Toth

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Kayla Toth will continue her education at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics’ Youngstown campus. | Submitted photo

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wins Maya and Kayla Toth graduated from Solon High School on May 21 and for the first time in their lives they will go their separate ways.

Maya will be off to Kent State University in the fall, while Kayla will head to the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics at their Youngstown campus.

Maya selected Kent State due to the convenience and how close to home it is.

“They have really good accommodations,” Maya said. “So, it’s really easy to get there, and the campus is easy to navigate.”

Maya also thought the people seemed really nice, and just felt like the school is the place for her.

On the other hand, Kayla will head to PIA’s Youngstown campus. She has wanted to go to PIA since she was in middle school, she said.

“I realized I wanted to go there when I was in middle school, during woodshop class,” Kayla said. “I really liked fixing stuff, so ever since then I’ve been trying to figure out a trade school and this one seemed perfect.”

After visiting the Youngstown campus, she said she immediately fell in love with it and felt it was the perfect fit for her. At PIA, students choose between two fields of study, and Kayla plans to enter the aircraft mechanic technician program.

She said the program focuses more on hands-on labor while also incorporating wing trajectory and other mathematical concepts.

Maya said she has known she wanted to major in psychology for a few years because she wanted to do something that would help people.

During her junior year, she took an Advanced Placement psychology class that solidified her

Maya Toth will attend Kent State University in the fall. | Submitted photo decision.

Maya kept very busy by participating in many clubs in high school. She and her sister were copresidents of the book club. She also was a part of Playhouse Squares STARS volunteer program.

“I got to help make sure everybody found their seats,” Maya said about the STARS program.

“I also made sure patrons in the theater enjoyed their experience at Playhouse Square.”

Kayla was a part of the school’s guitar club, which she really enjoyed because of the instructors and the sense of community. She played on the school’s golf team for four years.

Kayla was involved with the Jewish Culture Club and said she really enjoyed the club because it brought together a really big community of Jewish people at Solon High School.

“It was kind of just a way to explore more into our religion, and connect with our identity,” she said.

Kayla also appreciated how the program helps people who may not have easy access to synagogues strengthen their connection to Judaism.

Maya said she plans to engage with Kent State’s Hillel program, though she is still keeping an open mind about what other clubs and organizations she may pursue.

Kayla said the same is true for her, especially because she is not attending a traditional university and is still learning what social opportunities her new school offers.

– London DeMarco London DeMarco is the Karen and Richard Spector intern at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.

GALLERY OF GRADS

MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 11

Avi Wolf Age: 18 Graduation Date: May 14 High School: Fuchs Mizrachi School in Beachwood College: Yeshiva University Honors – Albert Einstein College of Medicine Medical Scholars Program in New York Residence: Beachwood Synagogue: Green Road Synagogue in Beachwood Jewish activities: Volunteer at Friendship Circle of Cleveland and leadership organizer at Bnei Akiva Parents: Laura and Mitch Wolf

F

or Fuchs Mizrachi School graduate Avi Wolf, pursuing medicine means more than just wearing a white coat.

After following his 2-year-old cousin’s journey with brain cancer, the 18-year-old felt there is truly no other path for him following his high school graduation.

“I heard a lot about cancer and had learned about it before, but this made it personal,” Wolf said. “The doctors in the hospital made him feel human, he was just treated like a kid. They made it very comfortable and fun for him, being from the Orthodox community, and after seeing that, I was very inspired.”

From shadowing locals doctors to hosting his school’s blood drive, Wolf got more involved in medical-related activities and founded Fuchs Mizrachi School’s PreMedicine Club, where he and other students visited local hospitals, heard from doctors and conducted experiments to help them prepare for their future pursuits.

“I realized there was really nothing I’d rather do than practice medicine,” he said.

Throughout high school, Wolf also participated in Model UN, where he chaired an international conference in Panama, and was a part of the Ohio Attorney General’s teen ambassador board, where he was a member of the student health and well-being subcommittee.

But before he heads off to college, Wolf will take a gap year in Israel, where he will study Torah, as well as Jewish law and thought, at Yeshivat Sha’rei Mevaseret Zion, a posthigh school yeshiva for North American boys.

“The main thing that inspired me to do this was wanting to take a year of personal reflection and growth,” Wolf said.

“I really wanted to be able to connect more to my roots and faith in the holy land.”

Citing the Cleveland community as an inspiration for him to continue his Judaic studies, he said that “I’m very fortunate to have grown up in the Cleveland Jewish community.”

Following his gap year, Wolf will attend Yeshiva University Honors – Albert Einstein College of Medicine Medical Scholars Program in New York with a major in biology on the pre-medicine track.

“I’m going to be doing research, case studies, networking with other like-minded students and working with the college of medicine faculty and staff,” he said.

While he is keeping his options open, Wolf said he is interested in possibly pursuing ear, nose and throat, or head and neck surgery.

– Casey Couch

Summer Adventure with Huntington Learning Center

Fuchs Mizrachi School graduate Avi Wolf will spend a gap year in israel before attending Yeshiva University Honors – Albert Einstein College of Medicine Medical Scholars Program. | Submitted photo

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GALLERY OF GRADS

12 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

Solon schools announces administration changes

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he Solon Board of Education recently approved changes to the district’s administrative team.

Mariann Moeschberger, principal of Roxbury Elementary School, is retiring after 27 years as an educator and leader. She has worked in the Solon schools for her entire career.

Joining the administrative team are Dakota Berg as principal of Solon High School, Paige Zenovic as assistant principal of Solon High School, Ashley Mivsek, who will be Roxbury Elementary School’s new principal, and Timothy Rosenbaum, who will join the district office team as the director of business and personnel.

“These are exciting times for the Solon Schools,” Superintendent Fred Bolden said in a news release. “We are grateful beyond measure for everything Mariann has given to this district and to the students and families she has served for so many years. Her dedication has helped to make Solon Schools what it is today.”

Berg

Mivsek

Moeschberger

At the same time, Bolden said that the district is “energized” by the new leadership, talent and fresh perspective that Berg, Zenovic, Mivsek and Rosenbaum are bringing to the administrative team.

“The future of Solon Schools is bright, and these exceptional new administrators will help navigate our

Rosenbaum

Short

Zenovic

path as we continue pursuing our district mission with steady and innovative leadership,” he said. “Our community can take great pride in knowing that this district attracts and retains educators of the highest caliber – and today’s announcements are a reflection of that.”

Moondog visits Orchard Middle School

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tudents at Orchard Middle School in Solon got a surprise visit from a familiar face – just not the usual one. Cleveland Cavaliers mascot Moondog made an appearance in Solon schools as a special guest at Orchard’s Quarterly Reward Party, an event that recognizes students for a successful quarter.

The visit was organized through the Orchard PTA, which – along with PTAs across the district – works throughout the year to bring students engaging experiences, from STEM assemblies and author visits to fun nights and reward celebrations.

Congratulations AMELIA BRAVO Laurel School

Moondog strikes a pose with Orchard Middle School students Penelope Kretch, Eliana Echle and Reese Young | Submitted photos

Congratulations Amelia!

We’re so proud of you and excited for many great things to come!

Mom, Dad and Sophie

Ohio University Music Production

Brittany Neidus with her daughter, Parker, left, make a Moondog sandwich.

Olivia Winograd is all smiles with Moondog, the Cleveland Cavaliers mascot.

GALLERY OF GRADS

MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 13

The SAT/ACT comeback: Why a few points can be worth tens of thousands of dollars SUSAN HENSCHEL

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or years, families heard the same message: “The SAT and ACT don’t matter anymore.”

That message is now colliding with reality.

This spring, The Ohio State University in Columbus announced it would reinstate SAT and ACT requirements for incoming freshmen beginning with the 2026 Henschel admissions cycle. The reason was straightforward: students who submitted scores performed better academically. Ohio State’s own internal analysis found that students who submitted test scores earned higher college grade-point averages and progressed through the university at higher rates.

Ohio State’s decision reflects a growing realization in higher education: GPA alone no longer gives colleges enough information.

Today, nearly half of all American high school grades are in the “A” range. According to College Board research, because so many students now graduate with inflated GPAs, standardized tests provide “critical, additive information” in predicting college success.

In other words, colleges increasingly need both GPA and test scores together.

And when it comes to scholarships, that combination can be worth large amounts of money.

A student with a 3.8 GPA and a 24 ACT may qualify for admission. But a student with the same GPA and a 32 ACT may qualify for major merit scholarships worth $15,000 to $30,000 per year.

That is the financial reality many families misunderstand in the “test optional” era.

Test optional does not mean test blind.

Even colleges that do not require scores frequently use them to award merit aid. Financial aid consultants and admissions experts consistently report that higher SAT and ACT scores remain one of the fastest ways to reduce the cost of college.

Consider what happens nationally at many universities: ACT 25–26 or SAT around 1,200 can trigger entry-level merit scholarships around $6,000 annually. ACT 28 to 29 or SAT 1,330 to 1,350 often unlocks scholarships of $10,000 to $15,000 annually. ACT 32-plus or SAT 1,420plus can produce awards approaching $28,000 annually at some institutions.

Over four years, the difference between a 26 ACT and a 32 ACT can exceed $80,000.

Very few investments in a teenager’s life offer that type of return.

Research from College Board also found that SAT scores combined with GPA are significantly better predictors of college performance than GPA alone. Their study showed the SAT helps identify which students are most likely to maintain the 3.0 to 3.5 college GPA often required to keep merit scholarships and honors status.

That matters because colleges are increasingly using scholarships strategically. Schools award the largest merit packages to students whose academic profile places them above the school’s average admitted applicant.

This is why students with strong test scores often receive aggressive financial offers from universities trying to improve rankings and academic profiles.

The numbers also show students are returning to testing in large numbers. More than two million students in the class of 2025 took the SAT, the highest participation level since before the pandemic. College Board further reported that 1.4 million students had SAT scores that were stronger than what their GPA alone suggested academically. Those students may have significantly strengthened both admissions and scholarship opportunities because of testing.

THE PRACTICAL REALITY FOR FAMILIES The practical reality for families is simple: a GPA tells colleges how a student performed in one high school environment. An SAT or ACT score tells colleges how that student compares nationally.

Together, they create the clearest picture.

And in today’s increasingly expensive college landscape and rising interest rates (Parent Plus Loan interest for 2026-27 is 9%), that clearer picture can translate directly into life-changing financial aid. An ACT score of 28 or higher can result in a $6,500 scholarship per year.

Families should stop asking whether the SAT or ACT matters. The better question is: how much money is a strong score worth?

Susan Henschel is senior consultant of The College Review, which is based in Pepper Pike.

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14 CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG | MAY 29, 2026

West Liberty University, Lake Erie College partner on degree

W

est Liberty University in West Liberty, W. Va., and Lake Erie College in Painesville are teaming up for a new articulation agreement that creates an accelerated route for students to earn a doctor of education degree, the two schools announced in a news release.

The 4+1+3 agreement allows qualified students from Lake Erie to smoothly transition from their undergraduate and master’s studies into West Liberty’s Doctor of Education program, reducing the time spent towards a degree completion and expanding access to advanced collegiate opportunities “Through this partnership with West Liberty University, we are creating a seamless and accelerated pathway for

our students to advance their education and impact in the field of teaching,” Greg Rothwell, dean of the school of education at Lake Erie College, said in the release. “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to preparing highly qualified, passionate educators by reducing barriers, strengthening academic continuity, and opening doors to meaningful, long-term careers in education.”

The agreement was formalized during a signing by representatives from both institutions on April 21 at West Liberty’s campus. Through the partnership, students will have a clearly defined academic pathway with supported continuity between the two schools while being prepared for leadership roles in education and related fields, according to

the release.

“This articulation agreement between West Liberty University and Lake Erie College represents more than a partnership, it is a strategic pathway that expands opportunity, strengthens regional collaboration, and empowers their graduates to seamlessly advance into doctoral study,” Richard Whitehead, chair of undergraduate and graduate education and assistant professor at West Liberty, said in the release. “By guaranteeing placement in the Doctor of Education program at West Liberty University, we are not only investing in individual career growth, but in the broader impact these professionals will have as leaders, innovators, and change agents across a wide range of fields.”

Lake Erie College school of Education named for Suzanne (Schoedinger) Ellis Lake Erie College in Painesville officially named its school of education the Suzanne (Schoedinger) Ellis ’59, ’87 School of Education in recognition of Ellis’ generosity and commitment to the college, according to a news release.

The naming honors Ellis, an alumna, teacher, board of director member and supporter of Lake Erie College whose philanthropy has helped strengthen opportunities for students and academic programs.

“Suzanne Ellis represents the very best of the Lake Erie College community,” President Jennifer N. Schuller said in the release. “Her dedication to education and her generosity toward our students have had a lasting impact on this institution. It is an honor to

recognize her legacy by naming our School of Education in her honor.”

Lake Erie College celebrated its naming with an event on April 7 in the Garfield Building on campus.

Donnellys make $3M gift to JCU in honor of retiring president CASEY COUCH ccouch@cjn.org

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ohn Carroll University recently announced a $3 million gift commitment from Bill and Sue Donnelly, classes of 1983 and 1984, respectively, in honor of President Alan R. Miciak who retired in May. “When Al stepped into the presidency, it was an extraordinary moment for higher education and an especially difficult one for John Carroll University,” Bill Donnelly, co-chair of the JCU board of directors, said in a news release. “In the midst of the uncertainty of COVID and a period of real challenge for the institution, he chose to lead. That decision reflected a level of courage and commitment for which I will always be deeply grateful.

Through the hard work we undertook together, I am proud not only of what we accomplished, but to call Al a trusted friend.”

Donnelly, who has served as co-chair of the John Carroll University board since 2019, designated the gift to support several key priorities at the university, including the Evans Scholars Endowed Scholarship, the Donnelly School of Leadership and Social Innovation in the Boler College of Business and the Welcome to the Work Endowed Fund.

In January 2025, JCU was selected as a new national partner institution for the Evans Scholars Foundation, a scholarship program overseen by the Western Golf Association. JCU’s first cohort of Evans Scholars will enroll in the fall.

The Donnellys’ commitment will help provide tuition support for Evans Scholars and expand access to a JCU

education for high-achieving student golf caddies who have demonstrated financial need, according to the release.

The Donnelly School of Leadership and Social Innovation was established in 2019 through a previous gift from the Donnelly family. The school supports the university’s entrepreneurship and leadership minors and offers a wide range of programs that serve both students and the broader Cleveland community.

Its initiatives include competitive research grants in leadership and social innovation, the Cleveland Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for aspiring entrepreneurs facing economic barriers, the Leadership Scholars program, experiential learning opportunities such as the Inspired Business Lab and the JCU Neighborhood Project, and networking and mentorship events that connect students with industry professionals.

The Welcome to the Work Endowment was established in recognition of Miciak’s five years of leadership at JCU. Designed to support future JCU presidents, the fund will sustain strategic initiatives that work to expand the university’s national presence and strengthen its position as a destination university for students across the country.

“I am deeply grateful to Bill and Sue for their unwavering support throughout my presidency,” Miciak said in the release. “Their lifelong commitment to John Carroll continues to provide our students with the resources and inspiration to lead lives of purpose. I am confident that the foundation we have built together is strong, and this extraordinary gift will continue to advance John Carroll’s work for years to come.”

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MAY 29, 2026 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 15

Hiram College appoints Malz as interim president

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ames M. Malz ’87 was appointed interim president of Hiram College, effective June 1, 2026, following the departure of President Robert E. Bohrer II. Malz, a member of the board of trustees and a 1987 Hiram College graduate, brings to the college over three decades of executive leadership experience in financial services, along with a strong record of organizational growth, talent development and community engagement.

Most recently, he served as managing director and Midwest regional executive at Citizens Financial Group, as well as president of the Ohio market within its corporate banking division.

Prior to Citizens Financial Group, he spent nearly two decades with JPMorgan Chase & Co., where he held several senior leadership positions, including managing director and region head for Ohio. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at KeyCorp, steadily advancing from associate to senior vice president while managing commercial banking teams throughout Northeast Ohio.

“Returning to Hiram in this capacity is both an honor and a responsibility I take seriously,” Malz said in a news

7%

John Carroll ranks in the top 7% of the four-year universities nationwide, according to The Wall Street Journal

release. “This institution shaped my life in profound ways, and I am committed to ensuring that today’s students – and future generations – continue to benefit from the same transformative experience. I look forward to working closely with our students, faculty, staff, alumni and the board to build on Hiram’s strengths and continue moving the college forward.”

As interim president, Malz will provide leadership and continuity during the transition period while the board conducts a national search for the next president, according to the release.

“Jim Malz is an accomplished leader with a deep understanding of both Hiram College and the broader higher education landscape,” Robert W. Turner, class of 1972 and chair of the board, said in the release. “His extensive experience leading complex organizations, coupled with his strong connection to Hiram, positions him exceptionally well to guide the college during this important time. We are grateful for his willingness to serve and confident in his leadership.”

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“This institution shaped my life in profound ways, and I am committed to ensuring that today’s students – and future generations – continue to benefit from the same transformative experience.”

James Malz Hiram College

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