Scheck Hillel Class of 2021 Celebrates Commencement

Seniors and their parents gathered on campus to celebrate the graduation of Scheck Hillel Community School’s Ben Lipson Upper School Class of 2021 - characterized by resilience, unity, chessed and talent. It was an especially meaningful celebration in the school’s 50th anniversary year. 

The class received acceptances to top universities across the country and to gap-year programs and yeshivot in Israel. Three students will be making aliyah to protect Israel in the IDF, and one will return after an Israel gap year program to join the US Air Force ROTC. All will take with them the brachot of an education steeped in Jewish values and Torah.

 

Rabbinic Head Dr. Ezra Levy welcomed families with a personalized Yevarechecha blessing for the graduates. Board of Governors Chair Uri Benhamron recognized the many graduates who have attended the school from early childhood  and praised the students for their kindness and resolve in light of a challenging year.

Head of School Vanessa Donaher expressed gratitude for the families who have trusted Scheck Hillel with their children, and shared principles for a life of health, satisfaction and meaning. Christopher Johnson, Director of High School, conveyed his feelings for the class: “Class of 2021, thank you for navigating the last year with me. Thank you for patience, kindness, and maturity. This was certainly a year we will always remember, and I will always remember you.”

Graduates were represented by Valedictorian Ana Freiman - who will attend Yeshiva University’s Honors Program after a gap year at Tomer Devorah Seminary - and by Salutatorian Leonardo Bentata, who will attend Northwestern University’s Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering. 

Throughout the ceremony, speakers described the abiding influence on their lives of Sholem Dovber Benchimol, z”l, a beloved classmate who lost his life during the previous year. His parents, Mrs. Devora and Rabbi Iosi Benchimol accepted Sholem’s diploma.     

We can't wait to welcome back home the Class of 2021 as alumni!