“Shining Bright” Spring Benefit Celebrates GOA Faculty & Staff, Mr. Adam Shapiro

Tributes from Alumni

Mr. Herskowitz was consistently a fun presence at GOA. Don’t get me wrong, he could definitely lay down the law when he needed to do so, but outside of those moments, I always found him very genial. Just a man in occasionally wild socks goofing around with us and sometimes yelling at us (well deserved) for our shenanigans.”

Naomi Esrig ’20

Mr. Herskowitz played a vital role in every production I was a part of. He always looked for ways to push me as an actor and performer and made sure everyone was prepared before we took the stage. I can’t thank him enough for the opportunities he gave me to explore the world of theater and for supporting me throughout my time at GOA.”

Itai Rekem ’19

During my time at GOA, I was fortunate to learn from Mr. Herskowitz as my teacher in the classroom, as my supervisor in the T’fillah mentorship program, and as my director in the high school plays. In each of these settings, he blended creativity, initiative and dedication to others in a way that I have tried to emulate in all that I do. I am filled with joy when I remember joking with Mr. H and friends after long rehearsals during tech week of a Midsummer Night’s Dream, or popping into his office unannounced for a chat throughout the school day. Even now, eight years after my GOA graduation, Mr. Herskwoitz is still providing me with guidance and opportunity. Thank you, Mr. H, for all you’ve done for me and our GOA community!”

Rose Shapiro ’13

brought the community together during this time of crisis. The show was an instant sensation and when word caught on, both campuses and their families were tuning in at 8:25 am every day to see how Mr. Herskowitz would brighten the morning. Through faculty and student game shows, discussions on world events, student contests and most importantly laughter, Live With Mr. H! was the highlight of GOA’s remote learning experience and definitely an unforgettable one.

Last summer, Mr. Herskowitz dedicated countless hours as part of the reopening team ensuring that Golda Och Academy could open in the fall for in-person learning. He helped to create a hybrid teaching model while attempting to give students as much of a normal school experience as possible adhering to the Covid guidelines. The GOA community owes much of the success of this past school year during this pandemic to Mr. Herskowitz and his tireless work to keep school open and running smoothly.

Throughout his different roles, Mr. Herskowitz has made our students his number one priority to ensure they have the best possible experience at GOA. We are grateful for his 11 years of service to our school and wish him the best of luck on his next journey.

When I was in 12th grade we were given the option to take a class called Entrepreneurship and Leadership that Mr. Herskowitz taught. Only three of us took that class (I don’t know why ... who wouldn’t want Mr. Herskowitz as a teacher!) Zach Broder, Evan Klein, and I were the only ones to take the class, and it was amazing. First, we honestly learned a lot from Mr. Herskowitz. But more importantly, it became a weekly time where the three of us were able to get advice from Hersky and talk about life. Mr. Herskowitz was by far one of the most memorable figures from GOA and had a huge influence on all of us. Josh Drill ’14 ”