The Power of Community: Donor Impact Report FY 2024–25/5785
Our mission, vision, and values are at the heart of everything we do.
Mission
At Schechter, we ignite our students’ Jewish souls, educate them to their highest potential, and empower them to use their knowledge, skills, and creativity to enrich our world.
Vision
Generations of engaged Jewish citizens who make our community and the world a better place.
Core Values
In today’s complex world, Schechter is a
place where kids can begin to discover who they are and who they want to be — as learners, as individuals, and as valued members of their community.
From their first days at Schechter, students are immersed in a joyful, warm, and welcoming environment that celebrates Jewish life, learning, and values.
Supported by extraordinary educators and engaged families, they learn to ask big questions, build lasting friendships, and live their Jewish identity with knowledge, confidence, and pride. And their families find a partner in raising their children and a community for life.
Together, we are shaping a thriving Jewish future — one child and one family at a time.
רבה תודה
Thank you for your support and partnership.
In this report you will hear from school leaders sharing highlights of the year, read inspiring stories about our donor community, and read reflections from our recent graduates.
Flip through to page 14 see our Honor Roll of 1,000+ donors to our Annual Campaign who make everything possible.
A Message from Ben Fisher, Board President
AsI reflect on this past year, I want to express my deep gratitude. Serving as Board President is both an honor and a privilege. I’m continually inspired by the strength of our community and the shared values that make Schechter such a vital institution in the Chicago Jewish community and beyond.
This year, our Board took bold steps to reinforce our commitment to the growth of all of our students by prioritizing academic excellence, social-emotional development, and affordability. Our expanded tuition affordability model (which you can view on our website) is designed to provide greater transparency, predictability, and financial support to Schechter families. And, for the second year in a row, we maintained a 0% tuition increase.
When the Invest in Kids Scholarship Program ended, the generosity of our community helped ensure continued support for our families. We’ve seen exciting momentum across our school. Kindergarten enrollment remains strong with three full classes again this year.
Additionally, the Ginsburg Early Childhood Center’s move to our Northbrook Campus has unified our community, created new enthusiasm in our building, and built a stronger bridge to the Sager School.
Our dedicated tzevet (faculty and staff), led by our exemplary leadership team, sets a high bar for excellence in all areas of our school. They are the heart of Schechter, shaping each child’s experience with their passion and commitment to our mission, vision, and values.
As we continue the search for our next Head of School, we are confident in our school leadership and tzevet and know that Schechter is well-positioned for its next chapter. We also look forward to celebrating Dr. Lena Kushnir in May. Her extraordinary leadership has left a lasting impact on our community.
Thank you to my fellow Board members for your partnership, to our families for entrusting us with your children, and to all of our supporters. Your generosity is what fuels our mission, sustains our growth, and expands our impact.
Isaac Rubinson
I will miss Schechter. The friendly community, the amazing academics, the unparalleled teachers, and most of all, the friends. I cherish the musicals which allowed me to grow and develop as a drummer, and my first Big Idea year where I learned how to create and promote a semi-functioning business. Thank you Schechter for allowing me to develop and mature into the man that I am today.
A Message from Dr. Lena Kushnir ’88, Head of School
AsI enter my final year as Head of School, I’m filled with deep gratitude and pride – not only for what we’ve accomplished together, but for the extraordinary community that shaped my own journey.
Schechter has always been my second home. I was once a student here, where I first discovered my love for Judaism, learning, and community. That foundation inspired a lifelong commitment to this school, and it has been an honor to serve as a member of the faculty and, most recently, as Head of School.
I’m proud that during my tenure, we’ve strengthened support for our educators, deepened our students’ learning and sense of belonging, added innovative programs and partnerships including Tribes, the Big Idea, and the integrated Keshet/Schechter Kindergarten program, and more.
Thanks to your generosity, we also strengthened our financial foundation – replenishing reserves and surpassing our $12 million Machar (Tomorrow) Campaign goal. This investment expanded our endowment and continues to transform our campus – sustaining our mission for generations to come.
And we did this as a community. Your support – your belief in this school and in me – made everything possible. And for that, I am endlessly grateful. I’m especially proud of the incredible team we have in place – visionary and passionate school leadership and exemplary educators – fully prepared to carry this work forward. I know the school’s future is bright. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your unwavering belief in this sacred institution. I look forward to a meaningful final year and a smooth transition ahead.
Abby Geister
I was first welcomed into the Schechter community as a Kindergartner standing under the Tallit singing with the whole school. Time flew by quicker then I had ever imagined and I was soon the 8th grader holding the Tallit welcoming the new Kindergartners, completing the full circle. This community has provided me with a sense of belonging, support, and built many friendships which I will take with me wherever I go.
New Silverstein Family Gift Transforms Cafeteria
After already making an extraordinary $1 million gift to the Machar (Tomorrow) Campaign, the Silverstein family came to us with a vision: to reimagine and renovate the school’s cafeteria into a warm, welcoming, and versatile community space for students, faculty, and families. That vision has become a reality through an additional $1.25 million gift, a portion of which is bringing the Silverstein Commons to life.
This latest gift builds on the family’s deep commitment to Schechter, including their ongoing annual support which helps ensure that Schechter continues to operate each year at its very best.
“Schechter has been one of the most meaningful parts of our family’s life,” said Bill ’79 and Tom ’77 Silverstein. “It gave us a strong Jewish identity, a love of learning, and lifelong friendships. We believe deeply in Schechter’s role as a cornerstone of the Chicago Jewish community and are proud and honored to make this additional gift.”
The Machar Campaign, in partnership with Jewish United Fund / Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, has raised more than $13 million to date, supporting long-term endowment growth and funding the many capital improvements at the Northbrook Campus.
“I am so grateful to the Silverstein family for making this vision a reality,” said Sheri Greenbaum, Schechter parent, board president-elect, and chair of the cafeteria renovation. “This project, along with our other transformational renovations, are more than an investment in our physical space; they are a promise to our children and future generations that their learning, growth, and Jewish identity will be nurtured in an extraordinary environment where they can flourish.”
Below are renderings of the reimagined cafeteria, which is expected to be completed in mid-September.
A New Beginning in Northbrook for the Ginsburg ECC
By Zahava Berman, Director, Ginsburg Early Childhood Center (ECC)
What began as a leap of faith has become an extraordinary new chapter!
In October 2023, after exploring options to remain in Skokie, we made the bold decision to relocate the Ginsburg ECC to our Northbrook Campus. That move has proven to be a true gift – for our early childhood center and for the entire Schechter community.
In 2024-25, we welcomed 45 children into our beautiful new space. We’ve gone from operating at a deficit to having a waitlist for this year and next. And we are adding a classroom for the 2025–26 school year. Clearly, there was a need for another full-day, play-based Jewish early childhood program in the area. Being in the building has also allowed our youngest learners to feel connected to the Sager School community by joining holiday celebrations, waving to “big kids” in the hallways, and having 5th–8th grade students help in our classrooms.
We are excited to share that 11 of our 12 ECC graduates eligible to start kindergarten this fall are enrolled at the Sager School. We are proud that the ECC is becoming such a strong feeder and that our children are growing up in a community that nurtures them every step of the way.
Stephanie Shpilman
The people at Schechter have helped shape me into becoming a better person, and the community has allowed me to become more outgoing. During my first few years at Schechter, I was extremely quiet, yet the people around me have made me comfortable enough to socialize with the world and bring out the most authentic version of myself.
SunDay FunDay Boosts Engagement and Enrollment
By Hillary Levitt Dunn ‘87, Director of Admissions and Enrollment
Whatdo singing, storytelling, space exploration, and Israeli adventures have in common? At SunDay FunDay, they’re all part of a joyful, play-filled morning for 2–5-year-olds and their grownups. Hosted monthly at Schechter, SunDay FunDay invites families to explore Schechter’s core values through music, movement, art, and imagination.
Whether it’s trekking through a make-believe Israel or launching into space with “Nasa Newbies,” every moment is designed to spark curiosity and connection. Bringing warmth, energy, and big smiles, our student volunteers (pictured above) help create a welcoming and joyful experience for every child and family.
As we prepare to launch our third year, we are thrilled that SunDay FunDay has become a beautiful bridge into Schechter. For the 2025-26 school year, 28 participants enrolled at the Sager School and 11 enrolled at the Ginsburg ECC. We look forward to welcoming everyone into our school community. Visit www.schechter.org/sundayfunday to learn more.
Ari Smith
Throughout my Schechter career, I have constantly been encouraged to be proud of my Judaism. This encouragement has allowed me to find my love for Judaic studies, and in turn helped me to win two chidonim (bible contest). I will never forget that moment after I won my first chidon in 6th grade, when all of my peers stormed the stage in celebration of my victory. Thank you to Schechter for encouraging me to pursue my love of Judaics.
More Than a Trip to Israel: A Journey of Belonging and Identity
By Nanci Caplan, Associate Head of School
Twelve days in Israel. Less than two weeks – but for our 8th graders, those days offered a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection to their Jewish identity. With war ongoing and safety always top of mind, this trip was not guaranteed. Yet we believe that if we want to raise informed, connected Jews who carry their identity with pride, we can’t teach Israel from a distance. Our students need to experience it.
So we went with full hearts, open eyes, and detailed safety protocols. We began our journey with a mitzvah at Soroka Hospital, bringing care and hope to children in need. Throughout the trip, our students engaged in meaningful experiences — from walking historic sites and exploring vibrant communities to connecting with local Israeli youth. Each moment deepened their understanding and connection to the land and its people. On Lag B’Omer, when a siren rang out in Jerusalem, our students looked to each other for support. Our students asked hard questions and sat with complex answers. During our final Kabbalat Shabbat service overlooking Jerusalem, I felt something shift. I realized our students weren’t just visiting Israel. They were claiming it. They were becoming part of the story of Am Yisrael.
Our 8th grade Israel experience is so much more than a trip. It’s a foundation for identity, connection, and the future.
At Schechter, we strive to ensure our curriculum reflects our values. In 2023–24, we wrote a guiding Israel Education Statement. In 2024–25, we piloted a weekly Israel Seminar for 8th graders, taught by Rabbi Jonathan Bubis, exploring ancient and modern history. And in 2025–26, we are evaluating our full Israel education scope and sequence to ensure that it meets our goals.
Yogev Pazy z”l: Forever in Our Hearts
This year, we honor the memory of Yogev Pazy, who served as a beloved Shinshin at Schechter during the 2020–2021 school year. Yogev filled our community with warmth, joy, and a deep love for Israel. On November 17, 2023, he was killed while serving as a captain in the IDF, fighting Hamas terrorists in the northern Gaza Strip.
We are profoundly grateful for the year he shared with us—teaching, laughing, dancing, and inspiring our students. May his memory be for a blessing.
Opening Doors: Schechter and Keshet Launch Inclusive Kindergarten
“For the First Time, I Saw My Son Truly Happy”
Elissa Staiman had always dreamed that her son could thrive in a Jewish day school environment. But as a child with behavioral and emotional challenges, he did not fit the standard mold many schools were prepared to support.
“You hear so many comments – ‘Maybe he has this, maybe he has that.’ It’s hard,” she said. “I just wanted my child to be in a Jewish learning environment where he could belong.”
That dream became a reality thanks to a groundbreaking inclusive kindergarten program created through a partnership between Schechter and Keshet. With seed funding from JUF’s Day School Innovation Fund, the program is transforming what is possible for children with diverse needs by providing them with the tools, support, and community they need to grow and thrive in a Jewish day school setting.
“For the first time, I saw my son willingly participate in a school event from start to finish with such happiness and pure joy,” said Elissa. “That joy comes from him being surrounded by people who genuinely care about helping him succeed each and every day. I absolutely love this program and am constantly telling other parents about it who need something more inclusive for their child.”
In FY25, four students enrolled in the program and will advance to first grade. Three more are slated to join in FY26. If you would like more information on how you can support this innovative program, contact Tami Warshawsky.
Kayla Mozes
When I started Schechter in Kindergarten, my teachers showed me how to treat others with kindness, respect, and empathy. In first grade I was taught the values and importance of helping others by partaking in an organization that gave food to children in need. During Nature’s Classroom in sixth grade, I was instilled with a love for nature and the world around us. And finally in eighth grade, during our Shabbaton, my connection and love for Judaism strengthened. I am forever thankful that I have fully grown into a kind, thoughtful, friendly, and brave person.
Investing in Excellence: How We Support Our Teachers
By Suzanne Mishkin, Sager School Principal
When you walk into a Schechter classroom, you’ll see passionate, thoughtful teaching in action. In addition to hiring talented, mission-driven educators, we are dedicated to providing the support they need to grow throughout their careers.
Our newest educators participate in a two-year mentorship program that includes weekly observations and meetings with a trained mentor. These relationships offer guidance, feedback, and a sounding board for growth and exploration.
All teachers have a supervisor who visits their classrooms regularly and helps them set and achieve goals. They also have access to two Instructional Coaches who support trying new teaching strategies that can address classroom challenges, and strengthen curriculum design. Finally, we engage in ongoing schoolwide professional development each year, diving into topics like assessment, differentiation, and specific aspects of our curriculum. These sessions allow teachers to explore new ideas together and learn from one another.
At every level, we are committed to helping our teachers grow and develop. When our teachers thrive, our students do too.
Tani Frazin
In To Kill A Mockingbird Scout once said, “Atticus was right. One time he said you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them. Just standing on the Radley porch was enough” (321). This quote inspires me because Scout always tries her best to learn from Atticus, so she can become a better person. Over my time at Schechter, my teachers have taught me countless life lessons that I always strive to apply in my everyday life, whether in or outside of school.
Studnitzer Gift Supports First Grade Ceremony
Each year, the Partners with God ceremony is a powerful moment for our first graders – a celebration of gratitude, connection, and their growing understanding of being created in God’s image.
Thanks to the vision and generosity of Staci ’92 and Ari ’91 Studnitzer, parents of Cogan ’23, Inslee ’26, and Bowen ’29, this cherished milestone will now be supported for years to come with a multi-year gift made in loving memory of Ari’s mother, Channie Studnitzer z”l. Remembered for her kindness, love of learning, and deep commitment to Jewish values, Channie’s legacy is woven into every part of this gift.
“Schechter has given so much to us – as students and now as parents,” Ari said. “In addition to our annual giving, we are honored to make this special gift to support Partners with God and to dedicate a collection of students’ letters to God for each family in memory of my mother.”
Partners with God is one of the many special milestone ceremonies that bring families together to celebrate their children’s deepening connection to Jewish life and learning.
Dear God,
Do you have feelings?
Why did you make bad people? Do you control us and the weather?
Do you have a family? Thank you for making people.
I am grateful for my friends, water, food, shelter, and family.
I feel happy because I am alive.
I feel happy because I can do stuff with my healthy body.
I think that you would look really good if we could see you.
Serena Marks
When I reflect on my time at Schechter, I think about all the milestones I experienced in each grade. It could be the Siddur ceremony, or the Israel trip, or even the Joseph play, but no matter what it was, it was the highlight of each year. Getting to practice, perform, and travel with my friends created memories I will never forget.
2025/5785 Honor Roll of Annual Campaign Donors
Thank you to more than 1,000 individuals, families, corporations, organizations, and foundations that supported Schechter this fiscal year. Your philanthropic support allowed us to deliver an unparalleled academic experience to our students, and enabled us to provide more than $4 million in Flexible Tuition (tuition assistance) to 70% of our student body. Together, we are educating generations of engaged Jewish citizens who make our community and the world a better place.
Meir (Brings Light)
$100,000+
Crown Family Foundation*
Crown Family Philanthropies*
Bernard Heerey Family Foundation*
Jewish Federation/Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago and Jewish Day School Guaranty Trust Fund*
David and Etta Jonas Family Foundation – Orete ’87 and David Harkavy, Heidi and Jonathan ’89 Jonas, and Ann ’95 and Adam Schneiderman*
The Harvey L. Miller Family Foundation
Andrea z”l and Kenneth Saffir*
The Silverstein Family*
Spellman Family Foundation*
Yovel (Jubilee)
$50,000-$99,999
Karen and Ethan Budin*▲
Nancy and Maury Fertig*▲
Amud (Pillar)
$36,000-$49,999
Associated Agencies, Inc. –
Lynn and Skip Schrayer, Jennifer and Josh Herz*
Maryl and Medwin Dayan*▲
Renee and Mark Stern
Shomer (Guardian)
$25,000-$35,999
Anonymous*
Linda Schottenstein Fisher*
Sheri and Steven ’80 Greenbaum*
Dr. Linda Chi-Ross and David Ross*
The Winick Family – Linda and Al, Debbie and Adam ’85, and Amy ’87*
Tina and Joseph Wolf*
Yesod (Foundation)
$18,000-$24,999
Amy ’95 and Ben Fisher*
John R. Halligan Charitable Fund*
The Hochberg-Lowenstein Families*
Joy of Life Foundation –
Nicole ’88 and Dan Drexler
Harry and Sadie Lasky Foundation*
Staci ’92 and Ari ’91 Studnitzer*
Manhig (Leader)
$10,000 - $17,999
Margaret and Lee B. Cohn*
Resnick Family Foundation –
Helaine and Howard z”l Resnick, Harriet and Joey Resnick, and Rachel ’85 and Ron Cooper*
Leah ’07 and Yitchak Freund
Nina and Arnie Harris*
Beth ’72 and Dr. Jeff Kopin*
Zhanna and Zev Plotkin*▲
Lynn and Skip Schrayer*
Becky and Gil ’78 Soffer*
Binnie and Mark Swislow*
Shagrir (Ambassador)
$7,500-$9,999
The Deutsch Family*
Sheryl and Bob Greenstein*
Liesel and Larry Jankelowitz*▲
The Wilfred Minkus Charitable Trust*
Dr. Rebecca and Dr. Loren Schechter*
David Y. Schwartz Family*
Mimi Sager Yoskowitz ’89 and Marc Yoskowitz*
Shutaf (Partner)
$5,400-$7,499
Fishbaum Family*
Elyssa and Ari Fisher*
Irving M. and Sylvia Footlik Foundation
Sonya Frazin*
JVC Investment Partner*
Magid Glove and Safety on behalf of Gigi Cohen and Michael Levin & Lindsay and Michael Cohen*
PCNation*
Pam and Barry Pearl
Relative Value Partners
Randee and Robert Romanoff*
Drs. Karen and David Sager*
Anat Hakim and Martin Sweet*
Stern Family Pays it Forward with Multi-Year Gift
Renee and Mark Stern were so moved after last year’s Yom Orchim celebration for grandparents and special friends that they chose to make an extraordinary multi-year gift to provide tuition support.
As proud Schechter parents and now grandparents, they said they wanted to help ensure that today’s families could experience the same warmth, community, and lasting impact that they received from their Schechter experience.
“Watching our grandchildren thrive at Schechter brought back so many memories,” they said, recalling a special moment with one of their daughters. “One day, she turned to us and said, ‘Thank you for sending me to Schechter – it was one of the greatest gifts you could have ever given to me.’ Hearing that reminded us just how much this school means to our family.”
“We are proud and honored to be able to give back in a meaningful way,” they added. “This gift is our way of saying thank you – and paying it forward.”
Benefactors
$3,600-$5,399
Anonymous*
A and R Katz Management Inc.*
American Jewish Artists Club
Julie ’85 and Jeff Benensohn*
Jane and Edward Best*▲
BMO Wealth Management*
Patti Caplan*
Janet and Gadi Cohen*
Lindsay and Michael Cohen
Merle and Larry Cohen*
Dr. Gordon Derman and Dr. Carol Rosenberg Derman*
Karen Lobl and David Eisenberg*
Fairmont Property Management
Arna and Bobby Fisher*
Suzanne and David Friedland*
Cindy and Howard Garoon*
Sarina and Robert Gerson*
Good Treble Fund
Suzy (Tzevet) and David Hakimian*
Handi-Foil*
Henry Crown and Company
Highland Park Bank and Trust:
A Wintrust Community Bank
HLM Capital*
Melanie and Brian ’81 Hoffman*
ICM Properties, Inc.*
Impact Marketing Group, Ltd.*
Imperial Group*
Dr. Lena ‘88 and David ‘86 Kushnir*
Andrea ’82 and Benjamin Leshem*
Laura ’95 and Joshua Levin*
Sherry and Brad Levin*
Tracy and Eric Lynn
Bonnie and Lee Malmed*
Andrea and Jeffrey Meltzer*
Milestone Planning Group at Morgan Stanley*
Ellen ’84 and Micah Nathan*
Danielle and Jonathan Pearl*
Toby z”l and Sherwin z”l Pogrund
Poll Family Foundation*
Republic Bank of Chicago
Holly and Michael Rosenberg*
Sherry and David Rothenberg
Patty and Ted Schmidt
Judy and Mark Schwartz
Katy and Joshua Silvers*
Arnold Simonsen Family
Charitable Foundation Inc.
Style Shack, Inc.
Dottie and Donald Wagner*
Tami (Tzevet) and Reuben Warshawsky*
Enid and Kalman Wenig*
The Lynn and Leo Wiznitzer Family*
The Xcel Group
Ariella Glassenberg
Chai Society
$1,800-$3,599
Anonymous*
Rachel and Jacob ’98 Avraham*
Bank of America Charitable Foundation on behalf of
Lena and David Kushnir*
Barbara and Keith Bank
Joyce and Jay Berlinsky
Eve ’73 and Richard Biller*
Suzanne Muchin and David Brown*
Nanci (Tzevet) and Ben ’95 Caplan*
Shirley and Carl Cohen*
Concerto Renal Services
Sheri and Neil Cooper*
Marcia Markowitz and Scott Dodelson*
Enrollment Rx
Inna Feldman-Gerber ’87 and Robert Gerber*
Nan and Marc Fine
First Eagle Bank
Carol and Ron Fogel*
Barbara and Danny Fox*
Bill Furie
Betsy Gidwitz*
Joanna ’05 and Benjamin ’05 Gliksberg
Hilary and Allan Greenberg
Bernie Groveman, Barbara Ancona, Ben Groveman and Gen Adams*
Diane ’84 and Shai Halivni*
Iris and Michael Heyman*
jBaby Chicago
Richard Karger
Karen and Michael Kesner*
Gigi Cohen and Michael Levin*
Arielle and Victor Levitan*
Lisa and Jim Levitas*
Karen and Allan Lovinger
Amy and John Lowenstein*
My nine years at Schechter have helped me embrace my Jewish identity with pride. Since reading Torah for the first time at the Tikkun ceremony in third grade, I have become more of a leader in my Jewish community outside of school. Learning how to read Torah at age nine will ensure I stay connected to other Jews for the rest of my life.
MPS Law
Deborah and Allan Nathan
Neal, Gerber and Eisenberg, LLP*
Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter*
Shana and Elan ’90 Peretz
Rosenthal Bros., Inc.
Rothschild Investment LLC
Susan and Marc Sacks*
Michelle and Jimmy Seidenberg*
Naomi and Jerrold Senser*
Shaevitz Kosher Meats and Deli
Shalom Memorial*
Karen and Hal Sider*
Silverman Family Foundation*
Joanne and James Smith*
Rachel and Michael Stein*
Deborah and Dale Strauss*
The Taitz Family – Cindy, Ari, Adam ’10, Jason ’12, Jonathan ’15, Daniel ’17, Gabriella ’24*
Lila and Steven Weiland*
Westown Property Management
Worthy Insurance
The Zemsky and Greenberg Families*
Grand Society
$1,000-$1,799
Anonymous*
Sally and Mike Abrams*
Angie and Larry Adler*
Alliant Americas*
James R. and Lesley B. Anixter
Family Foundation
Beacon Pointe Advisors*
Faye (Tzevet) and Benji Bearman*
Benevity Causes Portal
* Donors that have given consistently for 5 years or more
▲ Includes an additional donation through the Invest in Kids Scholarship Program
Karen and David Benson
Heidi Brett*
Kitty Calhoon and David Ettinger*
Carol and Ira Chasnoff*
Chicago Title LLC*
Sara ’75 and Steve Coven*
Patrick Daiello
Shosh Korrub and Daniel Derman
Debbi and Aaron Dworin*
Jodi and Aaron ’89 Epstein*
Zach Fertig ’04
First Bank Chicago*
Phyllis Fischel*
Nancy z”l and Alan Gandelman*
Beth and Chuck Goldberg
Jamie and Greg Goodman*
Galit and David Gottlieb
Arica ’80 and Emmet Hirsch*
Friends of the Hoffman Family in memory of David A. Hoffman z”l
Home Court Advantage
Sheila and Orry Jacobs*
Pearl and Joel Kagan*
Richard Kahn ’04*
Vicki and Barry Kaufman
Rhonda and Paul Miller*
Brooke and Jered ’95 Milton
Carol and Michael Nadler
Phyllis Neiman
Karen and Alan Peaceman*
Vicki and Gary Phillips*
Jane Pickus*
Pilcrow Advisors
Cantor Rachel and Chuck Rosenberg*
Safco Dental Supply Co.
Jody and David Schmidt*
We make every attempt to minimize errors. If your name is inadvertently omitted or listed incorrectly, please accept our sincere apology and contact tami.warshawsky@schechter.org
Grand Society
$1,000-$1,799 continued
Julie Dann and Brad Schneider*
Samuel Shanes*
Emily and Rabbi David Soloff*
Audra Kaplan and Alan Spellberg*
Marilyn and Joel Sprayregen
Judi Steinberg*
Matthew Stock
Lauren and Kyle Stone*
Strauss Realty Ltd.*
Symphony Care Network
Amy and Jeff Taub*
TPH Global Solutions –
Jody and David Schmidt*
Jacqueline and David Wolle*
Atid Society
$500-$999
Anonymous
Ora and Maury Aaron*
Anne Opila and Todd Abraham*
Tony Anderson
Andrea (Tzevet) and Alan Berlow*
Beth Hillel B’nai Emunah*
Stephie and Andrew Blum*
Camp Ramah in Wisconsin & Day Camp*
Congregation B’nai Tikvah
Congregation Beth Judea
Congregation Beth Shalom*
Couzens Lansky*
Babette and Mark Daskin*
Nina and Walter Deitch
Rachel and Marc ’79 Dorfman*
Becky Barak ’96 and Yuval Eisenberg ’96*
Greta Rothschild and Robert Eisenstadt*
Francine and David Ephraim*
Laurie and David Ferri*
Rachel and Rabbi Matthew Field*
Jessica and Rabbi Jeremy ’96 Fine
Finish Strong Kids
Laurel Van Allen and Zachary Frankel ’01*
Deborah and John Given
Jill and Barry Goldrich
Larry Goldsmith/Goldsmith
Accounting Group, Ltd*
Elisheva Blas and Jonah Grant ’10
Rosalie and Paul Greenberger
Hachette Book Group on behalf of Heidi Kanter
Valentine Hakimi*
Avi Handelsman*
Hi-Five Sports Club
Rebecca and Brian Howard
Heidi and Jonathan ’89 Jonas*
Elaine and Gil Kanter
Arlene and Neil Kaplan*
Randi and Daniel ’77 Kaplan*
Jill and Allen ’81 Katz
Friends of the Kupfer Family in memory of Donald Kupfer z”l
Sara Kushnir*
Ania Motowidelko and Marc Lawrence
Trisha and Rabbi Fred Margulies
Cindy Masover*
Abbie Meyers
Class of ’27 Mitzvah Project
Jodi and Amnon Morady*
Moriah Congregation*
North Suburban Synagogue Beth El*
The Members of North Suburban
Synagogue Beth El
Rita Plenner
Cindy and David Pogrund*
Hannah ’03 (Tzevet) and Brian ’03 Pogrund*
Rochelle Zell Jewish High School*
Miriam and Michael Rudolph
Rachel and Alan Russo*
Judy and Steve Schraiber*
Eli Schrayer ’11
Isaiah Bernstein
Erica and Rabbi Michael Schwab*
Julie and Rich Sheridan*
Barbara and Marc Slutsky*
Sheila and Michael Small*
Joan and Alan Sohn*
Stage Equity Partners, LLC*
Marianne and Stuart Taussig
Laurie and Doron Tisser*
Anna and Aleksandr Vaysman*
Rosalie and Mark Villano
David Wasserman*
Wigoda and Wigoda*
David Wippman
Robin ’73 and Cliff Wolf*
Fran and Phil Wolok
Lesley and Jeremy Wynes*
Carol Steinberg and Peter Yaffe*
Judy Hirsch Zelin and Richard Zelin*
Chaver Society (Friend) up to $499
Anonymous (9)
Anonymous (12*)
Abby and Charles Abrams
Deanna ’01 and Brett Abrams*
Keren Acoca (Tzevet) and Ohad David
Shiri Aharonovich (Tzevet)*
Rachelle and Alexander Aisen*
Ashton Akers ’28
Laurie and Brad Akers
Karen Akiva ’95 and Jason Howard
Miri and Avi (Tzevet) Allali*
Rebekah Hakimian ’06 and Stuart Almeleh
Andrea and Daniel ’78 Alpert
Iris Alpert ’73 and Jerry Selvin
Steffany and Yohann Altit
Lynn and Alfred Altschul*
Miranda and Steven Altschul*
Carmen Anderson (Tzevet)
I came to Schechter in seventh grade. What has stood out to me during my Schechter experience is the welcoming environment that I have experienced here. I will always cherish the relationships and friendships that I have made during my short time at Schechter.
Chana Anderson
Geraldine Anderson
Robin and Michael Anderson
Talia (Tzevet) and Josh ’89 Anisfeld*
Heather and Robert Aranyi
Brandi and Daniel Argentar
Irina and Leonid (Tzevet) Arlinsky*
Ronna Ash
Sharon and Gary Aver
Wendy and Howard Bach
Laura ’99 and Ezra ’99 Balser*
Marianne and Jack Bankier*
Karen and Hanoch Barak
Simona and Roni Bareket*
Deborah ’86 and Jonathan Barker
Anat (Tzevet) and Gadi Barlevy*
Kim Bass (Tzevet)*
Helen and Barry Baylis*
Rabbi Lisa ’81 and Kyle Bellows
Hila and Lior Ben Zur
Joshua Benensohn ’17*
Lily Benensohn ’21*
Rose Benensohn ’15*
Cheryl and Rabbi Kenneth Berger*
Robert Berger
Zahava ’96 (Tzevet) and Daniel Berman*
Alex Bernat
Beth and Bob Bernat
Charles Bernat
Carole and Joel Bernstein
Jeff Bernstein
Nitsan and Itai Biran
Elissa and Michael Birn
Orit Groag Blavvise and Roy Blavvise
Lorena and Adam Blonsky*
Heather ’05 and Aaron ’05 Bloomberg
Ellie Bodner Fishman
Nancy Bokor
Anne Bolotin and Joseph Wrobel*
Lauren Brown and Steven Borkan
Adrienne Bornstein*
Debby and Gary Bortnick
Mindy and Marc Botbol*
Elizabeth (Tzevet) and Benjamin Botnick
Aleksander Boykov ’95
Alexis Braverman and Charles Gandelman ’01
Elaine and Berton Braverman
Adrienne Breen
Larry and Michelle Breitman*
Eileen Leiderman and Ben Brener
David Bressler ’89
Marlene and Harold Bressler*
Every Gift Counts in the Chai Five Challenge!
By Tami Warshawsky, Director of Development
In March of 2024, our community came together in full force for our annual Chai Five Challenge – 48 hours, 360 gifts of $18 or more, and one goal: participation! And the support poured in – one donation at a time!
Thanks to the generosity of so many – including many making their first-ever gift to Schechter – we didn’t just meet our goal; we surpassed it with 576 gifts, earning a $100,000 incentive from our campaign sponsor. Whether it was $18, $36, or more, each gift played a powerful role in strengthening our school and our shared future.
This year’s theme, “It all starts here,” celebrates the many ways Schechter sparks curiosity, connection, and a lifelong sense of identity. Co-chairs Ann Schneiderman and Tracy Lynn, along with Development and Events Manager Shira Rozgovich and a passionate team of ambassadors, led the effort with joy, energy, and a deep sense of purpose.
A big shout-out to our amazing students, faculty, staff, and community members who brought their enthusiasm to life in our videos and across social media.
The Chai Five Challenge is more than a fundraiser – it’s a celebration of our shared commitment to Schechter. Taking place as we head into the final stretch of our fiscal year, the Challenge involves everyone in our community in our annual campaign. From students and alumni to grandparents and friends, every gift counts. Thank you for showing up, giving back, and helping to build the Schechter Fund – one gift at a time.
Gemma Brett ’27
Anna and Robert Brimm*
Belinda and Rob Brock
Carrie Glassner ’03 and Adam Broms*
Ilene (Tzevet) and David Brot*
Diane and Charles Brown*
Eric Brown and Mira Shiloach
Becca and Rabbi Jonathan (Tzevet) Bubis
Heather Bublick ’98
Leah and Avram ’98 Buchbinder*
Adam Budin ’16
Sarah and Allan Budweg
Rebekah and Ryan Butler
Caryn Caffarelli
Amy and Joseph ’98 Caplan
Dani Caplan ’27
Sarah and Samuel ’93 Caplan*
Sofia Caplan ’29
Morella and Alvin Raul Cardona*
Millie Cave
Jennifer Chams ’88
Karen and Paul (Tzevet) Chanan
Mary and Ben Channon*
Rabbi David and Jonathan Chapman
Elior Chapman ’31
Renae Charalab
Lois Solomon and Lawrence Chasin
Jeryl Chico
Randie and Edward Chubin*
Sheri Cloch and Michael Weiss
Robert Cogan*
Colette and Rick (Tzevet) Cohen*
Deborah and Joel Cohen
Erica Cohen
Kahila Halpern and Alec Cohen ’08
Larry Cohen
Robyn Cohen
Sandra and Ian Cohen*
Sevonne Cohen ’96
Terri and Darien Cohen*
Roz and Oren Conway
Abbie ’11 and Mitch Cooper
Jamie Cooper ’02 (Tzevet) and Mark Schnitzer*
Debbie Copley*
Moises Cordovi
Carmen Cuzmanko
Evan Dayan ’16
Sara and Stanley ’05 Dayan
Rebecca ’99 and Corey Derdiger*
Erez Derman ’33
Lila Derman ’28
Nili Derman ’30
Talia and Ari ’98 Derman*
Yael Derman ’05
Meital and Etamar Deshe
Debbie and Rabbi David Dobkin*
Shai Dobrusin
Amy and Harell ’90 Dolgin
Etty and Giora Dolgin
Mayrav Dolgin ’93
Laura Mell and Arthur Dolinsky*
Myra and Lawrence Dorf
Gabriel Doscher ’29
Katherine ’98 and Matthew Doscher*
Noah Doscher ’32
Joshua Dredze ’96
Carole and Michael Dunn*
Emmett Dunn ’19
Hillary ’87 (Tzevet) and Brian Dunn*
Jemma Dunn ’22
Joan and Wallace Dunn*
Max Dunn ’17
dyeGirl Chicago
Karen and David ’82 Ecanow*
Michele and William Edelman
Michelle and Jordan ’99 Edelman
Kara and Justin Einsidler
Adrienne Eisenmann
Judy and Isaac Elkayam*
Iris and Mikhail Elkind*
Hillary and Jeremy ’03 Elkins
Elissa Staiman and Meyer Emanuel
Ilana Epstein ’87*
Shari and Ahiad Erlich
Rosa (Shoshana) Eselevsky*
Marcie and Richard Eskin*
Francie and Jeffrey Fagan
Iris and Joe Fagan
Solomon Fagan
Robert Falk
Erica and Jaime Faulhaber
Jaclyn Feather (Tzevet) and Jonathon Miller*
Eve and Brad Feinberg*
Judy and Steve Feinberg*
Stephanie Feldman*
Debbie Feldstein
Karen and Richard Ferdman
Mark Filip
Leslie and Norman Finkel*
Bari and Avi Fleischer
Jennifer Flink*
Lilli Flink ’04 and Ariel Platt
Lori and Bruce Fogelson
Eva and Ari ’89 Footlik and Family*
Helene Fox*
Stephanie and Michael Fox*
Hannah Fraint ’94
Laura and Ezekiel ’96 Fraint
Wendy and Benjamin ’83 Frank*
Gabriel Frankel ’31
Kim and Alan Frankel*
Judy Franks-Farah
Malka and Michael ’95 Frazin*
Harriet and Bill Freedman*
Laura ’00 and Rabbi Alex Freedman*
Jennifer and Julie Freels
Ann and Marc Freimuth*
Chaver Society (Friend) up to $499 continued
Sofia Frid
Mia Friedland ’20
Noa Friedland ’17
Karen and Mark Friedman
Missy ’88 (Tzevet) and Jeremy Friedman*
Sarah and Hagay Fringero
Ruth and Mark Fromm
Elise and Ira Frost
Natalia and Eli Ganon
Gartner, Inc on behalf of Miranda and Steven Altschul
Yehudit ’98 and Aaron Gavant
Elizabeth and David Geifman*
Jacob Geiringer ’17
Jennifer and John Geiringer
Irina and Mikhail Geister*
Ada Gelb
Stephanie and Hylton Gelb
Carey and David Gelfand
Marissa and Brantley Gerchikov*
Danielle Gershon ’00
Marlene and Herbert Gerson*
Andy and Edgar Gettleman*
Jeff Gilman
Melissa and Adam Gilman
Dr. Netali ’03 and Dr. Landon Ginsberg
Jenna Greenberg and Rabbi Joshua Ginsberg
Barbara Glimer
Meg and Eric Gluck
Lauren and Alan Goeppinger
Rebecca (Tzevet) and Corey Gold*
Gail Goldberg*
Rebekah and Stephen Goldberg
Roxanne ’05 and Richard ’97 Goldberg
Leslie and Bernie Goldblatt
Nami Goldenberg
Lia ’01 and Adam Goldfarb*
Marcy Goldman (Tzevet)*
Marisse Goldman
Nikki and Zachary Goldman
Elijah Bergovoy ’26
Howard Goldstein
Randall Goldstein ’73
Arden Goldstein and Levi Bergovoy
Cidney and Jeffrey Golman
Rachel and Scott Goode
Steve and Judi Goode
Deborah and Wayne Goodman*
Google on behalf of Elisheva Blas and Jonah Grant
Marilyn Hirsch and Gary Gordon*
Pamela Grad ’77
Lynn and Alan Graham
Julie Oscherwitz Grant and Steve Grant
Rachael Gray-Raff (Tzevet) and Elliot Raff*
Shana ’99 and Jonathan Greenberg
Sandra Greenblatt (Tzevet)
Michelle Lawner Greenburg and Aron Greenburg*
Tammy Greene
Jamie Greenebaum
Elizabeth Sokol and David Greenstein ’98
Anita (Tzevet) and David Grobart*
Gregory Grosman (Tzevet)*
Dr. Shelley Daniels and Dr. Israel Gross*
Alum’s First Gift Reflects Schechter’s Lasting Impact
Ididn’t
realize what a gift my Schechter education was until I got to college and met others who didn’t have that experience,” says Evan Dayan ’16, who recently made his first annual gift to Schechter. Now living in Tel Aviv and working for Ernst and Young, Evan moved to Israel to begin his career after graduating from Vanderbilt, driven by a connection to Jewish identity and community that he first discovered at Schechter.
During his time at Vanderbilt, Evan became a vocal advocate for Israel – especially after October 7. He ran the Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon carrying an Israeli flag and photos of victims and hostages, and later traveled to Kibbutz Nir Oz with Birthright Israel Onward. “I wanted to be able to say, ‘This is real. I took these photos on my own phone.’”
Evan hopes his gift will help future students have the same foundation that he was fortunate to have. “Schechter’s dual curriculum helped me think critically, stay grounded, and know who I am,” he said. “This is my way of giving back to a community that has given me so much.”
June and Richard Gross*
Janet and Maynard Grossman*
Rebekah ’99 and Josh Grossman
Sree Gummuluru
Emily Gurner (Tzevet)*
Jamie ’09 and Ethan Guthman
Rachel Haims (Tzevet)*
Sharon Haims
Kim and Peleg Halpern*
Ruth Halpern (Tzevet)*
Claire and Charles Hammer*
Carolyn Hanus ’01
Diane and Steven Hanus
Leslie and Richard Hanus*
Lindsey Rosenson Harber ’97 (Tzevet)*
Josephine Harkavy ’22
Orete ’87 and David Harkavy*
David Harris
Debbie Harris
Deborah Harris (Tzevet)*
Jaime and Aaron Harris
Susan and Benjamin Harris
Sheldon Hayer
Ariela Haymberg (Tzevet)*
Linda and Patrick Heins
Jill Helfand
Lisa Helfand ’88
Bonnie and Richard Hernandez
Donna and Jeffery Hersh
Sandy Hill (Tzevet)*
Shira Hirsch ’14
Shlomit Hoch (Tzevet)
Meital Hochenboym (Tzevet) and Ami Sananes*
Alysa Hoffman
Barbara and David z”l Hoffman*
Beth and Marty Hoffman
Janet and Arnold z”l Hoffman*
Joanne Hoffman
Joshua Hoffman ’11*
Lisa and Perry Hoffman
Nancy and Buddy Hoffman
Barbara and Joel Hollander*
Alicia (Tzevet) and Patrick Honan*
Diane Hornstein
Eliana Horwitz (Tzevet)
Leslie and Peter Horwitz*
Jennifer Houdek
Joshua Houston ’19
Linda Iovino
Judy Isenberg
Ariela (Tzevet) and Amnon Ish-Hurwitz
Aviva and Stu Jacobs*
Barbara Jacobs
Sheila and Ron Jacobson
Adam Jankelowitz ’17
Ryan Jankelowitz ’20
Carol and Ronald Jesselson
Rachel and Rabbi Robert Jury
Nathan Kahn ’08
Wendy and Daniel Kahn*
Orly Tamam and Uzi Kalif
Allison Kamen ’86 and Michael McElwee*
Joyce Kamen and Ben Abraham
Yvette and Arnie Kanter
Bridget Kaplan (Tzevet)
Howard Kaplan
Phyllis and Sid Kaplan
Judith S. Karp*
Sanders Katsion
Jill Katz (Tzevet)*
Rabbi Jan and Cantor Lanie Katzew
Mollie and Michael Kaufman
Richard Kaufman*
Stacey and Thomas Kaufman
Stephanie Keene
Adina Kleiman and Rabbi Allan Kensky*
Keshet
Franci ’00 and Michael Kind*
Leslie and Jonathan Kind
Avi Kirshenbaum ’28
Joanne and Gary Kirshenbaum*
Meredith and Eric ’01 Kirshenbaum
Micah Kirshenbaum ’30
Noah Kirshenbaum ’32
Michael Kirshner
Kelly Kole
Sharon and Allan Koltin
Karen and Mitchell Kopin
Jennifer Korach
Dana Kotler
Rachel Kraft ’78 and Doug Brown*
Heidi ’85 and Jason Kramer
Lori and Rabbi Ben Kramer*
Marcia and Paul Kramer
Samantha and Peter Kramer
Traci (Tzevet) and Karl Kranz*
Susan Kromelow
Max Kudrin (Tzevet)*
Zhanna and Michael Kvashnik*
Stacey and Mario Kywi
Land Partners, LLC
Paula and Adam Landau*
Debra and Arnold Landis
Debbie and Andy Lapin*
Dawn and Steve Lavin
Fran Lawner
Adrienne and Lester Lawrence*
Bradley Leshem ’13*
Daniel Leshem ’18
David Leshem ’16*
Jack Leshem ’11
Carol Patinkin and Simon Lesser
Alexa Levin ’13*
Arlene Levin
Beth and Daniel Levin
Sandra and Mark Levin*
Joyce Levine*
Isaac Levitan ’16
Ronit Levy (Tzevet)*
Nancy Lewin
Osnat and David Lichtenfeld
Susan Goldsmith and Ira Lichtenstein
Debbie and Gary Lindon
Yemimma Lipschultz*
Seymour Lipton Family*
Dina ’76 and Trevor Lissoos*
Irina and Pavel Litinski*
Lidia and Modest Litinski
Louise and Gershon Locker*
Samantha Orbach and Jason Loeb
Nancy London and Rob Wilkin
Maya and Adam Lott
Stephanie and David Luger
Avital Lupovitch ’10 (Tzevet)*
Hazel Lynn ’26
Jaron Lynn ’28
Michelle Lynn
Riley Lynn ’33
The Estate of Cara Madansky
Abby and Jonathan Maeir*
Sherry and Philip Magid
Laura Magid-Aloni ’96 and Yekutiel Aloni
Aryel Ashe and Ken Malatesta*
Ann Malk
Caryn and Rabbi Mitchel Malkus ‘82s*
Missy and Allan ’74 Malmed
Diana and Mikhail Maltsman*
Ellen Phillips and Jordan Mandel
Shirrah and Aharon Mantzur
Rachel and Mark Mappa
Jay Marcus*
Ronda Margolis
Amanda and Brad Mariam
Deborah Marks ’95
Molly Markshtien ’09 (Tzevet)
Shari Cohen and Bob Mayer*
Pnina Mazor (Tzevet)*
Rachel and Taylor McDowell*
McNulty Chiropractic of Highland Park
Sandra Mell
Yael Meshulam ’06 (Tzevet)
Larry Meyer
Rita Meyers*
Carol and David Miller*
Carol Minkus
Rabbi Yocheved Mintz
Brian Miretzky ’98
Suzanne (Tzevet) and Noah Mishkin*
Les Mittman
Elise Ecanow and Avi Mlotek
Moriya Mlotek ’21
Debbie Kaplan and Michael Mnookin
Louis Moeckler (Tzevet)*
Joni Crounse and Richard Moline
Andrew Montgomery (Tzevet)*
Jane ’75 and Mark Mordini
Tracey and Josh Morrel
Hilda and Clive Moss*
Maggie and Doron Mozes
Marisa Kowalsky and Dan Myers
Chava Nachmias and Marlene Stern*
Sarah Nadler ’11
Deborah Proper (Tzevet) and Josh Nathan ’87*
Diane and Alan Nelson
Allison and Adam ’90 Nemirow*
Rabbi Debra Newman Kamin and Daniel Kamin ’74
No Shame On U
Karen and Yizhar Nochimowski*
Oren Nochimowski ’19
Tamara and Earl Norman
North Shore Law
Rachel and Tzvi Novick
Barbara and Garry Nusinow
Jill and Avi Nutkis
Phyllis and Norman Nutkis
Maya Ohcana ‘07 (Tzevet)
Noreen ’77 (Tzevet) and David Ohcana*
Noreen and Jerry Orbach
Anita Ordan
Robert Ordan
Samantha (Tzevet) and Brandon Orlov*
Charone and Peter Ousley*
Liora Kleiner and Rabbi Raphael (Tzevet) Ozarowski
Avram Pachter ’02*
Darlene and Norman Padnos*
Sherri and Mitch Padnos*
Noa Padowitz (Tzevet) and Elena Grossman
Sivakami Palaniappan (Tzevet)
Jodie and Dr. Alexander Paret*
Lauren Patinkin (Tzevet) and Dion Lowry*
Deborah and Larry Peckler
Rachel ’95 and Rabbi Micah Peltz*
Caryn Peretz ’93*
Jona and Gabriel Peretz
Thelma and Stuart Perlik
Diana and Thomas Peters*
Viorica and Ross Peters*
Jodi and Craig Phillips*
Rachel Pickus ’80
Casey and Brett Pierson
Debora Pinzur
Toni and Neil Pliskin
Brooke and Matt Plofsky
Emerson Plotkin ’28
Greyson Plotkin ’27
Jaxon Plotkin ’30
Suzy and Ed Plotkin*
Leah Polin
Allyson and Ryan ’90 Poll*
Janet Pomorantz
Jackie Povitsky (Tzevet)*
Rabba Daniella Pressner*
Sofia and Alex Pyatetsky
Talia ’91 and Dmitry Pyatetsky*
Robyn-Lee and Stanleigh Rabin*
Fran Rabinowitz
Lori and Richard ’77 Rabinowitz*
Alison Randall
Jeffrey Ray
Hallie (Tzevet) and Frank Redman*
Janet and Myron Reicher
Melinda Remaly
Coby Resnick ’15*
Harriet and Joseph Resnick*
Janet and Gary Resnick
Liam Resnick ’27
Maya Resnick ’17
Melinda and Ben Resnick*
Talia Resnick ’22
Elizabeth Richman and Mitch Dayan*
Jeri and Steve Rissman
Helen Rivkin
Davita and Michael ’79 Robinson*
Nicoleta and Liviu Roman
Robin and Mark Romanek
Yelena and Jeff Rondel*
Maya Roseman
Judy and David Rosen
Drew Rosenberg ’24
Iris and Aaron Rosenberg
Lauren and Jonah ’03 Rosenberg*
Marissa and Jonathan Rosenberg
Renee Rosenblatt and Bob Dauber
Heather and Jacob Rosenfeld
Laura Rosenfeld (Tzevet)*
Chaver Society (Friend) up to $499 continued
Robyn Rosengard (Tzevet)
Marsha (Tzevet) and Dr. Andy Rosenson*
Michael Rosenwasser ’71
Marcy and Morry Rotenberg*
Dror Nuriel-Roth and Yuval Roth*
Leelach Rothschild ’89
Elisa Rotman and Rabbi Aaron Melman*
Rena Rozen (Tzevet)*
Dvash Rozgovich ’29
Ilana and Arik Rozgovich
Raam Rozgovich ’27
Shira ’97 (Tzevet) and Liad Rozgovich*
Yaar Rozgovich ’29
Debi and Benji Rubin
Leah and Robert Rubin
Linda and Brian Rubin
Marilyn and Gary Rubin
Asher Rubinson ’22
Isaac Rubinson ’25
Lynda and Yale Rubinson*
Yori Rubinson*
Marci (Tzevet) and Jeff Rubinstein*
Lynette and Richard Rushkewicz
Nikki Kopelson and Zeev Saffir ’99
Benjamin Sagarin (Tzevet)*
Karaleigh and Jonathan Salmi* Saltzman Family*
Julianna Salvi
Stephanie Sanderman
David Sarnoff
Revelle Schachter
Hannah Minkus ’94 and Joseph Schaedler*
Lynne and Ralph Schatz
Lynne and Howard Schechter*
David Schechtman
Amy ’96 and Jeffrey Scherr*
Hanna Schiffman (Tzevet)*
Carly Schlafer
Rhonda and Bruce Schlesinger
Nancy and Philip Schmidt
Adam Schneider ’07
Ann ’95 and Adam Schneiderman*
Ella Schneiderman ’26
Joey Schneiderman ’29
Julia Schneiderman ’27
Renee and Jack Schneiderman*
Inbal Schnitman (Tzevet)*
Ahoova and Jonathan Schoenberg
Maya Scholder ’15
Shana (Tzevet) and Adam Scholder*
Sivan ’95 and Mark Schondorf*
Rebecca Schraiber ’08
Janice Schrimmer
Charlie Schur ’31
Felice and Michael ’98 Schur
Karen and Paul Schur
Rachel and Van Schwab*
Sharon and Richard Schwab
Alex Schwartz ’05 (Tzevet) and Blake Zelman*
Amy Schwartz (Tzevet)
Linda Schwartz (Tzevet)*
Nancy and Michael Schwartz
Ruthe and Charles Schwartz
Sammy Schwartz ’15
Shira and Jeremy ’84 Schwartz
Dr. Gabrielle Schwartzman ’08*
Eliana Schwartzman ’12*
Jo-Anne and Louis Schwartzman*
Tamar Schwartzman ’09*
Lindsay Seidenberg ’03*
Sharone Shamir
Sari (Tzevet) and Phillip Shandling*
Sarah Shanes ’11
Fran and Steven Shapiro*
Gayle and Barry Shapiro
Lois and Arthur Shapiro
Lori Stark and David Shapiro ’70*
Miranda Hart ’99 and Jacob Shapiro ’96
Lea and Joseph Shiloach*
Dina Shiner*
Asya Shpilman and Morris Weisman*
Irina Pechenik and Mark Shukhman
Asherith and Daniel Shulman*
Joy and Larry Shulruff*
Mickey and Michael (Tzevet) Shuman*
Debbie and Marc Siegel
Jan and Ronald Siegel
Joy and Jack Siegel
Leslie Sigale
Linda and Marty Silber
Matthew Silver (Tzevet)
Cari Silverman ’00
Hannah and Joshua ’10 Silverman
Judy and Jeffrey Silverman
Larry Silverman
Lauren and David Silverman*
Lori Silverman and Vince Panozzo*
Marlene Silverman
Samantha ’02 and Yoni Silverman
Julie Mednick-Simmons
and Russell Simmons*
Claire Sufrin ’92 and Michael Simon*
Joyce Sklar
Susan Agate and Michael Slutsky
Stephanie and Michael Smerling*
Dr. Michelle Wasserman and David Smith*
Betty Sobelman*
Ronnie Jo Sokol*
Sherry Sokol
Rita and Sam Soltan*
Alexander Spektor ’98*
Alana Spellman ’10
Ari Spellman ’10
Sarah and Zachary ’07 Spellman
Jeff and Joni Spungen
Edna and Marc Steer
Sheila and David Steiman
Cindy Steinberg
Ellen and Michael Steinberg*
Laura Patterson and Joel Steinberg*
Marleen and Mark Steinberg
Sari Steinberg ’82
Rachel Arai and Devin Stites*
Jack Stone ’29
Sam Stone ’30
Yvette and David Stone*
Keren and Jeremy Stonehill
Stephanie Stormoen (Tzevet)*
Rosette Strubel
Bowen Studnitzer ’29
Cogan Studnitzer ’23
Inslee Studnitzer ’26
Abby ’00 and Alex Suarez
Irene and Barry Sufrin*
Micah and Rebecca Swislow
Samantha Sylverne (Tzevet)*
Judy Szapiro (Tzevet)*
Marcela and Marcelo Sztainberg
Rebecca ’93 and Samuel Tatel
Barbara (Tzevet) and Bruce Tatz*
Tracie Tatz
Mark Taylor
Naomi ’98 and Brett Taylor
Trisha (Tzevet) and Eli Taylor*
TisBest Philanthropy
Hazzan Ben Tisser
Brad Tokarz
Merle and Steven Tovian
Liz and Paul ’98 Towb*
Jaclyn Trachtenberg
Tome Allali ’03 and Matthew Travers
Debbie and Chuck Turoff
Marilee Upton Spatz and Larry Spatz
Elisheva Lanzkron-Vachman and Chaim Vachman
Amitai Vales ’17
Natan Vales ’15
Ranan Vales ’12
Zahava Vales ’10
Tony Ventrella
Sapphire Levi and Alejandro Vergara
Rebecca Versman (Tzevet)
Ruth Freedman and Daniel Wander*
Adina Allen and Rabbi Josh Warshawsky ’04*
Daniel Warshawsky ’07*
Lori and Matthew Wasserman
Sandy and Mel Wasserman
Imy and Howard Wax*
Debbi and David Weil*
Sarah ’98 and Jason Weil*
Julie and Rabbi Jeffrey Weill*
Sarah and Daniel Weinberg
Judy and Larry Weindruch*
Aliza ’03 and Elazar Weiner*
Lisa and Michael Weiner*
Michelle and Solomon Weiner
Abby Weinstein
Joan and Shelly Weinstein
Lynn ’82 and Philippe Weiss*
Mitchell ’85 and Jennifer Weiss
David Weisskopf ’13
Jody Zalkin-Weisskopf and Philipp Weisskopf*
Joshua Weisskopf ’15
Jillian and Nathan Wenig
Veronika and Seth Wenig
Debbie and Dan Werlin*
Smadar and Gregory White
Danny Wolf ’18
Josh Wolf
Emma Wolf
Leah and Jason Wolf
Yehudit (Tzevet) and David Wolf
Judy Wolkin
Henry Wolle ’13
Isabel Wolle ’20
Sophie Wolle ’16
Amy and Eric Wolok
Louie Wolok ’31
Naomi Wolok ’28
Jackie Kreda Wolpert
Eliana ’05 and Bryan Wool
Lauren and Gary Wool
Noah Wynes ’29
Amy ’94 (Tzevet) and Jonathan Yaffe*
Arna and Steve Yastrow*
Laura and Mitchel Zacks
Jillian and Rabbi Eric Zaff
Betsy Briskman (Tzevet) and David Zemon*
Aliaksandr Zhukovich
Iris ’82 and William Zuckerman*
Talia Zuckerman ’08
Jennifer ’86 and Michael Zukerman
In Loving Memory of Andy (Andrea) Saffir z’’l
In April, our Schechter community and beyond lost one of its greatest champions. Andy was a passionate advocate for Jewish education and an unwavering supporter of countless vital institutions in the Chicago Jewish community. Her commitment to nurturing Jewish life and learning was evident in every role she embraced.
Andy held several leadership roles at Schechter, including serving as president of the Schechter Parent Organization and as a valued member of the Board of Directors, where she helped to guide our school with wisdom, warmth, and dedication. She brought people together, inspired others to serve and support our school, and believed deeply in the power of Jewish education to shape future generations. Andy had an extraordinary ability to ask the right questions — the ones that sparked meaningful conversation, challenged assumptions, and helped move our community forward with clarity and purpose. In her most recent role, as a proud Schechter grandparent, she loved visiting the school and seeing her and Ken’s values passed on to the next generation. Andy’s vision and generosity have left an enduring imprint on Schechter. Her legacy lives on in the joyful voices of our students, the strength of our community, and the ongoing work of the institution she loved so dearly.
Your Impact:
Machar Campaign Donors
Thank you to the following members of our community who participated in our Machar Campaign. Through your philanthropic support, we raised more than $13 million – 80% of campaign funds were invested in our endowment to help secure Schechter’s future and 20% were used to upgrade the Northbrook Campus, which houses the Sager School, to create a 21st century learning environment to support Jewish life and learning.
$1,000,000+
The Jonas Family
Etta z”l and David z”l Jonas, Orete ’87 and David Harkavy, Heidi and Jonathan ’89) Jonas, Ann ’96 and Adam Schneiderman, & Dr. Marcia Litwack
Northwest Home for the Aged
Andrea and Kenneth Saffir
Karyn and Bill ’79 Silverstein
Leslie and Tom ‘77 Silverstein
$360,000 - $499,999
Karen and Ethan Budin
Maryl and Medwin Dayan
Sheri and Steve ’80 Greenbaum
$250,000 - $359,999
Crown Family Philanthropies
Linda Chi-Ross and David Ross
The Estate of Rose Salkin
Melissa ’79 and Marc Spellman
Tina and Joe Wolf
$100,000 - $249,999
Stephie and Andrew Blum/Blum Family Foundation
Carmel and Barry Chiswick
Merle and Larry Cohen
Nancy and Maury Fertig
Nina and Arnie Harris
Hochberg Family Foundation on behalf of Hochberg/Lowenstein Families
Anita and Barry Poll
Lynn and Skip Schrayer
David Y. Schwartz Family
Karen and Hal Sider
Silvers/Rothner Family
Raphaela and Todd Stern
Winick Family
Mimi Sager Yoskowitz ’89) and Marc Yoskowitz
$50,000 - $99,999
Anonymous (2)
Jordan A. Feldman Memorial Scholarship Fund
Amy ’95 and Ben Fisher
Linda Schottenstein Fisher
Helene Diamond and Jorde M. Nathan Family Foundation
Lynne and Howard Schechter
Binnie and Mark Swislow
$36,000 - $49,000
The Blaustein, Dragunsky, and Weiss Family
The Hoffman and Fishbein Families
$25,000 - $35,999
Friends in loving memory of Jordan Feldman z”l (Greenbaum, Peretz, Poll, Sager, Yoskowitz)
Liesel and Larry Jankelowitz
Lena ’88 and David ’86 Kushnir
Lisa and Jim Levitas
Judy and Albert Milstein
Drs. Karen and David Sager
Rebecca and Loren Schechter
Rebecca and Gil ’78 Soffer
The Stone Family
$18,000 - $24,999
Kim and Alan Frankel
The Albert and Fritzie Hoffman Siddurim Fund
Andrea ’82 and Ben Leshem
Ellen ’84 and Micah Nathan
The Weil, Gandelman and Braverman Families
Cohen Family Dedicates Innovation Studio
For Merle and Larry Cohen, Schechter is more than a school – it’s family. They sent their three children to Schechter, and three of their grandchildren are Schechter alumni, continuing a multi-generational connection that reflects their deep commitment to Schechter’s community and values.
Already generous supporters of the Machar (Tomorrow) Campaign for endowment and capital projects, the Cohens recently made an additional $180,000 gift to dedicate Schechter’s Innovation Studio. This investment demonstrates their belief in preparing students for the future through creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. Innovation is deeply personal to Larry. “The more people we involve in innovation and robotics, the better – for education, for business, for all of us,” he said.
Many long-time Schechter families will remember Larry as the Hametz Inspector, visiting classrooms before Passover with feather in hand –a tradition that brought joy to both students and teachers. Today, the Cohen legacy continues through their daughter, Julie Benensohn ‘85, who serves on Schechter’s Board of Directors, helping to ensure that the family’s love for Schechter and dedication to its enduring impact lives on.
Chiswick Family Establishes Endowment Fund to Provide Tuition Support
Aspart of the Machar (Tomorrow) Campaign, Carmel and Barry Chiswick established the Chiswick Family Scholarship Fund with a generous donation. The Fund is held within the Solomon Schechter Endowment Foundation. As parents of two alumni and grandparents of Maya, who graduated in 2025, they are deeply committed to Schechter for the transformative impact it has on its students and the broader Jewish community.
Following Maya’s graduation, they made an additional donation to their fund –expressing heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional education Maya received and the dedicated educators who inspired her to become her best self.
“Schechter helped us provide our children with intellectual tools for success in both secular and Jewish worlds, as well as a love of both worlds and an appreciation of how they interact to be mutually reinforcing,” they said. “We are privileged to have been Schechter parents and grandparents, and are glad to help other families have this experience. “
$10,000 - $17,999
Anonymous
Angie and Larry Adler
Susan and Joe Ament
Jane and Eddie Best
Nanci and Ben ’95 Caplan
Margaret and Lee Cohn
Barbara and Danny Fox
Judith Horwitz Glassenberg and Sam Glassenberg
Beth ’72 and Dr. Jeff Kopin
Sherry and Brad Levin
Liat and Ron Meisler
Andrea Yusim Meltzer and Jeffrey Meltzer
Sheila and Orry Jacobs
Lori and Richard ’77 Rabinowitz
Randee and Robert Romanoff
Holly and Michael Rosenberg
SSDS Teachers Association
Ellen and Michael Steinberg
Tammy and Michael Sugar
Tami and Reuben Warshawsky
Jody Zalkin-Weisskopf and Philipp Weisskopf
Lynn and Leo Wiznitzer Family
$5,000 - $9,999
Anonymous
Renee and Jim Akers
Lois Solomon Chasin and Lawrence Chasin
Hillary Levitt Dunn ’87 and Dr. Brian Dunn
Rachel and Neil Greenbaum
Sharon and Allan Koltin
Abby Polin
Dottie and Donald Wagner
$1,000 - $4,999
Patti Caplan
Dr. Gordon Derman and Dr. Carol Rosenberg Derman
Jennifer and Stewart Flink
Beth and Robert Footlik
Jamie and Greg Goodman
Sara and Richard Kushnir
Marc Lawrence
Carol Patinkin and Simon Lesser
Gigi Cohen and Michael Levin
Elisa Rotman and Rabbi Aaron Melman
Rhonda and Paul Miller
Suzanne and Noah Mishkin
Karen and Alan Peaceman
Vicki Phillips
Noreen ’77 and David Ohcana
Karen and Paul Schur
Dr. Audra Kaplan and Alan Spellberg
Enid and Kal Wenig
Endowment Foundation Board
Ethan Budin
Steve Greenbaum ‘80
Brian Hoffman ‘81
Penny Keeshin
Lee Malmed
Larry Pachter
Janet Resnick
Marc Sacks
Kal Wenig
The Solomon Schechter Day School Endowment Foundation was created in partnership with the Jewish Federation’s Agency/Day School Endowment Program, which was established to ensure that Solomon Schechter Day School and our sister Agencies/Day Schools have the necessary resources to meet community needs. All endowment commitments are recognized as gifts to the Jewish Federation’s Centennial Campaign.
$18 - $999
Mindy and Marc Botbol
Leah and Avram Buchbinder
Karen and Joel Budin
Elise and David ’82 Ecanow
Greta Rothschild and Robert Eisenstadt
Jodi and Dr. Aaron ’89 Epstein
Karen and Mark Friedman
Elissa Resnick Goodman
Sara and Albert Karoll
Laura and Joshua Levin
Arielle and Victor Levitan
Diana and Michal Maltsman
Jane Pickus
Dror and Yuval Roth
Steven Rubin
Carolyn Reinglass and David Sklar
Joyce and Arnold Sklar
Sheila and Michael Small
Lisa Statland
Aliza Steinberg
We deeply appreciate our community members throughout the decades who have supported our annual campaign and capital projects, made a legacy gift or signed a declaration of intent, or helped to build our endowment to more than $10 million. We are grateful for your partnership and generosity.
Thank You to Our Event Participants
Thank you to the following members of our community who supported Schechter by participating in our annual raffle and by purchasing admission tickets to our many community events throughout the school year.
Anonymous (11)
Sandra Abel
Abby and Charles Abrams
Deanna ’01 and Brett Abrams
Wendy Adams
Bobbi Adelman-Kaiser and Aaron Kaiser
Karen ’01 and Josh Adland
Renee and James Akers
Tara and Mark Albert
Steffany and Yohann Altit
Miranda and Steven Altschul
Rebecca ’91 and Eytan ’88 Anisfeld
Talia (Tzevet) and Josh ’89 Anisfeld
Ilana and David Bard
Deborah ’86 and Jonathan Barker
Kim Bass (Tzevet)
Gail Baum
Hila and Lior Ben Zur
Joshua Benensohn ’17
Julie ’85 and Jeff Benensohn
Jody and Ron Benishay
Russell Benuck ’96
Andrea (Tzevet) and Alan Berlow
Carole and Joel Bernstein
Chantal and Ron ’85 Blaustein
Orit Groag Blavvise and Roy Blavvise
Vickie Block
Alison Bloom
Simone and David Bloom
Stephie and Andrew Blum
Honorable Edward and Jane Bobrick
Ellie Bodner Fishman
Anne Bolotin and Joseph Wrobel
Elisa Gallo ’87 and Ronen Borenstein
Lauren Brown and Steven Borkan
Mindy and Marc Botbol
Catherine and Eric Botnick
Carole and Sydney Brandwein
Elaine and Berton Braverman
Janika and Russell Brenner
Becca and Rabbi Jonathan (Tzevet) Bubis
Leah and Avram ’98 Buchbinder
Karen and Ethan Budin
Yelena Revich and Jay Canastra
Patti Caplan
Sarah and Samuel ’93 Caplan
Clifton Carter
Jennifer Chams ’88
Lois and Lawrence Chasin
Jessica Cherry ’01 and Daniel Chavin
Sheri Cloch and Michael Weiss
Debbie Cohen
Deborah and Joel Cohen
Jennifer Cohen
Karen and Sheldon Cohen
Lindsay and Michael Cohen
Marcia and Charles Cohen
Sandra and Ian Cohen
Sheri and Neil Cooper
Debbie Copley
Sara ’75 and Steve Coven
Rachel and Rabbi Nate Crane
Deanna and Michael Dalezman
Maryl and Medwin Dayan
Talia and Ari ’98 Derman
Jennifer and Todd Deutch
Ron Diamond
Debbie and Rabbi David Dobkin
Rachel and Marc ’79 Dorfman
Katherine ’98 and Matthew Doscher
Nicole ’88 and Dan Drexler
Lisa Drucker
Alison Dry
Michelle and Jordan ’99 Edelman
Becky Barak ’96 and Yuval Eisenberg ’96
Jacquelyn and Marc Eisenberg
Karen Lobl and David Eisenberg
Greta Rothschild and Robert Eisenstadt
Jennifer Eisenstein and Scott Peters
Ilanit Zafrani and Nir Elkayam
Abigail Elkins
Hillary and Jeremy ’03 Elkins
Barbara and Erwin Epstein
Ilana Epstein ’87
Jodi and Aaron ’89 Epstein
Linda and Leslie Epstein
Francie and Jeffrey Fagan
Eileen Feder
Eve and Brad Feinberg
Nancy and Maury Fertig
Faith Field
Rachel and Rabbi Matthew Field
Maris (Tzevet) and Morris Fineberg
Tammi and William Finestone
Barbara ’82 and Raymond Finfer
Leslie and Norman Finkel
Amy ’95 and Ben Fisher
Elyssa and Ari Fisher
Penny Fisher
Erica and Michael Fishman
Bari and Avi Fleischer
Jennifer and Stewart Flink
Irene and Zin Fooks
Beth and Robert B. Footlik
Eva and Ari ’89 Footlik and Family
Dana Foster
Barbara and Danny Fox
Donna Fox
Stephanie and Michael Fox
Laura and Ezekiel ’96 Fraint
Kim and Alan Frankel
Alvin Franklin
Judy Franks-Farah
Malka and Michael ’95 Frazin
Linda and Mark Freedman
Jennifer and Julie Freels
Suzanne and David Friedland
Missy ’88 (Tzevet) and
Jeremy Friedman
Julia Gekhter
George George
Sarina and Robert Gerson
Deborah and John Given
Judith and Samuel Glassenberg
Megan Glazer
Michael Gold
Fran Goldberg
Karen and Joel Goldberg
Rebekah and Stephen Goldberg
Leslie and Bernie Goldblatt
Lia ’01 and Adam Goldfarb
Nikki and Zachary Goldman
Arden Goldstein and Levi Bergovoy
Rachel and Scott Goode
Jamie and Greg Goodman
Marni Gore
Sarah ’88 and Jason ’90 Gorenstein
Laura Gradman
Deborah Graham
Steve Graham
Sheri and Steven ’80 Greenbaum
Michelle Lawner Greenburg and Aron Greenburg
Elizabeth Sokol and David Greenstein ’98
Sheryl and Bob Greenstein
Judge Shelley Daniels and Israel Gross
June and Richard Gross
Janet and Maynard Grossman
Emily Gurner (Tzevet)
Larry Gurner
Gloria and Steven Gutmann
Rachel Haims (Tzevet)
Suzy (Tzevet) and David Hakimian
Diane ’84 and Shai Halivni
Lindsey Rosenson Harber ’97 (Tzevet)
Orete ’87 and David Harkavy
David Harris
Jaime and Aaron Harris
Ariela Haymberg (Tzevet)
Harry Heifetz
Lisa Helfand ’88
Arica ’80 and Emmet Hirsch
Meital Hochenboym (Tzevet) and Ami Sananes
Alysa Hoffman
Barbara Hoffman
Janet and Arnold Hoffman
Melanie and Brian ’81 Hoffman
Alicia (Tzevet) and Patrick Honan
Sarit Horowitz
Sydney Horwitz
Monica Israel
Aviva and Stu Jacobs
Sheila and Orry Jacobs
Janet Jacobson
Carol and Ronald Jesselson
Heidi and Jonathan ’89 Jonas
Rachel and Robert Jury
Pearl and Joel Kagan
Lori Kahn
Orly Tamam and Uzi Kalif
Joyce Kamen and Ben Abraham
Jenny and Steven Kaplan
Judy and Allan Kaplan
Phyllis and Sid Kaplan
Samantha Kaplan
Avrum Katz
Debra Katz
Jill Katz (Tzevet)
Rachel Katz
Helaine Katz-Ratskoff
Stacey and Thomas Kaufman
Vered Hankin and Jeremy Kaufman
Naomi Kayne
Karen and Michael Kesner
Franci ’00 and Michael Kind
Fern King
Mitchell King
Joanne and Gary Kirshenbaum
Meredith and Eric ’01 Kirshenbaum
Dana Kotler
Heidi ’85 and Jason Kramer
Susan Kromelow
Zhanna and Michael Kvashnik
Stacey and Mario Kywi
Mindy Lamberti
Sue Lampert
Debra and Arnold Landis
Eva Laser
Allison Latimer
Amy Lauer
Marilyn Lazarus
Andrea ’82 and Benjamin Leshem
Carol Patinkin and Simon Lesser
Gigi Cohen and Michael Levin
Sandra and Mark Levin
Sherry and Brad Levin
Arielle and Victor Levitan
Lisa and Jim Levitas
Debra Fertig ’77 and Jonathan Levy
Susan Goldsmith and Ira Lichtenstein
Yemimma Lipschultz
Ariell and Brian Lipsky
Samantha Orbach and Jason Loeb
Stephanie and David Luger
Tracy and Eric Lynn
Abby and Jonathan Maeir
Laura Magid-Aloni ’96 and Yekutiel Aloni
Ellen Phillips and Jordan Mandel
Amanda and Brad Mariam
Deborah Marks ’95
Molly Markshtien ’09 (Tzevet)
Adi and Shimi Marom
Sarah Goldrich Martin and Jeffrey Martin
Pnina Mazor (Tzevet)
Sandra Mell
Sandra Merrill
Marina and Adam Messinger
Carole Metnick
Kim Metnick
Abigail ’03 and Jonathan Miller
Carol and David Miller
Rhonda and Paul Miller
Roberta and Brian Miller
Rabbi Yocheved Mintz
Les Mittman
Debbie Kaplan and Michael Mnookin
Louis Moeckler (Tzevet)
Dan Morrel
Anton Mostovoy
Marisa Kowalsky and Dan Myers
Deborah and Allan Nathan
Sarah ’90 and Greg Neikrug
Diane and Alan Nelson
Susan Nesher
Dalia Ness
Ronna and David Ness-Cohn
Isabele Nisenbaum
Rachel and Tzvi Novick
Jill and Avi Nutkis
Stephanie Oettinger
Jennifer and Zach Oppenheimer
Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter
Darlene and Norman Padnos
Noa Padowitz (Tzevet) and Elena Grossman
Brooke Palmer
Lauren Patinkin (Tzevet) and Dion Lowry
Karen and Alan Peaceman
Danielle and Jonathan Pearl
Jona and Gabriel Peretz
Jodi and Craig Phillips
Jane Pickus
Elianna and Ari Platt
Brooke and Matt Plofsky
Suzy and Ed Plotkin
Zhanna and Zev Plotkin
Hannah ’03 (Tzevet) and Brian ’03 Pogrund
Allyson and Ryan ’90 Poll
Robyn-Lee and Stanleigh Rabin
Lori and Richard ’77 Rabinowitz
Sandra Randell
Stacy Raviv
Linda and Aaron ’92 Resnick
Jeri and Steve Rissman
Barbara Romain
Nicoleta and Liviu Roman
Robin and Mark Romanek
Sue-Ann and Robert Rosen
Holly and Michael Rosenberg
Heather and Jacob Rosenfeld
Laura Rosenfeld (Tzevet)
Marsha (Tzevet) and Andy Rosenson
Sharon and Carl Rosenstein
Leelach Rothschild ’89
Elisa Rotman and Rabbi Aaron Melman
Helen and Marc Rubenstein
Debi and Benji Rubin
Linda and Brian Rubin
Rochelle and Earl Rubinoff
Miriam and Michael Rudolph
Rachel and Alan Russo
Steven Sacks
Saltzman Family
Edith and Murray Salzman
Steven Sanderman
Revelle Schachter
Hannah Minkus ’94 and Joseph Schaedler
Sandy Schatz
Dr. Rebecca and Dr. Loren Schechter
Shimrit Scher and Shai Bracha
Jill Schiller
Richard Schlossberg
Ann ’95 and Adam Schneiderman
Shana (Tzevet) and Adam Scholder
Sivan ’95 and Mark Schondorf
Janice Schrimmer
Felice and Michael ’98 Schur
Karen and Paul Schur
Erica and Rabbi Michael Schwab
Amy Schwartz (Tzevet)
Judy and Mark Schwartz
Abby and Andrew Seruya
Roberta Shanin
Dahlia Sherman
Sarah and Maksim Shilkrot
Dina Shiner
Irina Avdushev and Assaf Shtraichler
Asherith and Daniel Shulman
Judy and Jeffrey Silverman
Samantha ’02 and Yoni Silverman
Katy and Joshua Silvers
Linda Simons
Sheila and Michael Small
Stephanie and Michael Smerling
Michelle Wasserman and David Smith
Helen Dym-Smoler and Jeffrey Smoler
Joan and Alan Sohn
Pamela and Adam ’88 Sohn
Sherry Sokol
Melissa ’79 and Marc Spellman
Jeff and Joni Spungen
Alisa ’88 and Jeff Srulovitz
Susan and Larry Stein
Judi Steinberg
Rachel Arai and Devin Stites
Jennifer Stoller
Lauren and Kyle Stone
Yvette and David Stone
Deborah and Dale Strauss
Rosette Strubel
Staci ’92 and Ari ’91 Studnitzer
Abby ’00 and Alex Suarez
Irene and Barry Sufrin
Jodi and Bryan Sugar
Anna and Alon Sumagin
Cindy and Ari Taitz
Rebecca ’93 and Samuel Tatel
Mark Taylor
Elana ’95 and Jason Tennenbaum
Debbie and Chuck Turoff
Elisheva Lanzkron-Vachman and Chaim Vachman
Rena Viner
Fay Wasserman
Imy and Howard Wax
Sarah ’98 and Jason Weil
Marcia Zakroff and Douglas Weinberg
Michelle and Solomon Weiner
Judith and Rabbi David Weiss
Rachael and Jeremy ’88 Weiss
Daniel Weisskopf ’21
Jody Zalkin-Weisskopf and Philipp Weisskopf
Pam Witt
Robin ’73 and Cliff Wolf
Jacqueline and David Wolle
Amy and Eric Wolok
Eliana ’05 and Bryan Wool
Lauren and Gary Wool
Amy ’94 (Tzevet) and Jonathan Yaffe
Mimi Sager Yoskowitz ’89 and Marc Yoskowitz
Jillian and Rabbi Eric Zaff
Irene Zakon and Arkady Rubinshteyn
Judi and Steven Zeal
Elaine Zeidman
Judy Hirsch Zelin and Richard Zelin
Betsy Briskman (Tzevet) and David Zemon
Aliza ’03 and Aaron ’01 Zivic
Additional thanks to the many members of our community who also attended our complimentary family engagement, social action, educational, and Israel programming throughout the year.
2025-2026 Board of Directors, Parent Organization
Presidents, and Schechter Tzevet (Faculty and Staff)
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Head of School
Dr. Lena Kushnir ’88
Board President
Ben Fisher
Secretary
Jonathan Pearl
Vice President, Finance
Ari Studnitzer ’91
Vice Presidents, Development
Zhanna Plotkin
Kyle Stone
Vice President, Governance
Rebecca Schechter
President Elect
Sheri Greenbaum
Vice President, Head Support and Evaluation
Sarina Gerson
Immediate Past
President, Vice President, Building and Security
Medwin Dayan
Directors
Julie Benensohn ’85
Andrew Bokor
Ari Derman ’98
Rabbi Alex Freedman
Joanna Gliksberg ’05
Sherry Levin
Amy Lowenstein
Ari Platt
Ann Schneiderman ’95
Melissa Spellman ’79
Dale Strauss
Abby Suarez ’00
Lynn Wiznitzer
Tina Wolf
We are pleased to welcome new board members: Ari Derman ’98, Rabbi Alex Freedman, Ari Platt, Dale Strauss, and Abby Suarez ’00. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to those who recently completed their board service: Rabbi Nate Crane, Zach Fertig ’04, Gary Kirshenbaum, Andrea Leshem ’82, Gil Soffer ’78, and Mark Swislow.
Schechter Tzevet
Leadership Team
Dr. Lena Kushnir ’88, Head of School
Zahava Berman ’96, Director, Ginsburg ECC
Rabbi Jonathan Bubis, Rav Beit HaSefer
Nanci Caplan, Associate Head of School
Rachel Jury, Sager School K-4 Assistant Principal
Hillary Levitt Dunn ’87, Director of Admissions & Enrollment
Suzanne Mishkin, Sager School Principal
Sam Orlov, Director of Student Services
Noa Padowitz, Sager School 5-8 Assistant Principal
Scott Roseman, Director of Finance and Operations
Tami Warshawsky, Director of Development
Schechter Parent Organization Co-Presidents
Kelley Deutsch
Talia Derman
Franci Kind ’00
Honoring Our Six Beloved Retirees
In June, our Schechter community came together to celebrate six beloved members of our faculty who devoted decades – some more than forty years – to our school, our students, and our families. They include: Barb Tatz (21 years), Debbie Harris (27 years), Marcy Goldman (28 years), Marsha Rosenson (37 years), Pnina Mazor (40 years), and Alicia Honan (41 years).
Employees
Keren Acoca
Shiri Aharonovich
Sarah Alkyer
Avi Allali
Carmen Anderson
Leonid Arlinsky
Lynn Arons
Anat Barlevy
Kimberly Bass
Faye Bearman
Andrea Berlow
Elizabeth Botnick
Betsy Briskman
Ilene Brot
Ethan Celnik
Paul Chanan
Rick Cohen
Jamie Cooper
Sloane Firestein
Melissa Friedman
Mike Fujara
Rachel Goetz
Rebecca Gold
Marcy Goldman
Rachael Gray-Raff
Sandra Greenblatt
Anita Grobart
Emily Gurner
Cara Gutstein
Rachel Haims
Suzy Hakimian
Ruth Halpern
Ariela Haymberg
Randi Heichman
Sandra Hill
Shlomit Hoch
Meital Hochenboym
Ariela Ish Hurwitz
Bridget Kaplan
Jill Katz
Traci Kranz
Max Kudrin
Ronit Levy
Avital Lupovitch
Noah Magill
Molly Markshtien
Louis Moeckler
Each of these extraordinary educators poured their heart and soul into Schechter. Their influence reached far beyond their classrooms, the innovation studio, the makerspace, the stage, the band room, the gymnasium, and the athletic field. They sparked a love of learning, helped students gain new skills, and instilled in them the confidence to believe in themselves and in their potential. They leave a lasting mark on the lives of hundreds of students and families.
We are deeply grateful for their years of service and celebrate the lasting legacy they leave for generations to come.
Andrew Montgomery
Stephanie O’Connell
Maya Ohcana
Noreen Ohcana
Samantha Orlov
Raphael Ozarowski
Sivakami Palaniappan
Lauren Patinkin
Danielle Plung
Hannah Pogrund
Jacqueline Povitsky
Deborah Proper
Hallie Redman
Laura Rosenfeld
Robyn Rosengard
Lindsey Rosenson
Rena Rozen
Shira Rozgovich
Molly Rubin
Marci Rubinstein
Staci Rusch
Benjamin Sagarin
Gila Saxton
Hanna Schiffman
Inbal Schnitman
Shana Scholder
Ron Schrag
Alexandra Schwartz
Amy Schwartz
Linda Schwartz
Sari Shandling
Gili Sherman
Michael Shuman
Erica Sidell
Matthew Silver
Judy Szapiro
Trisha Taylor
Jonathan Thomas
Julia Tung
Rebecca Tupuritis
Rebecca Versman
Eleanor Weiss
Yehudit Wolf
Amy Yaffe
Samantha Zadikoff
Ellen Zimmer
At the end of the 2024–2025 school year, we also said goodbye to the following members of our tzevet: Talia Anisfeld, Jaclyn Feather, Maris Fineberg, Eliana Horwitz, Yael Meshulam, and Samantha Sylverne. We are grateful for their devotion and service to our school.
