2023 Scholarship Dinner A Success!

Columbus Torah Academy's 2023 Scholarship Dinner held this past Sunday night was a celebration of generous honorees, amazing students, dedicated teachers, devoted administrators and staff, and the importance of CTA in bringing a brighter future to Columbus' Jewish community.


We are grateful to be joined by more than 400 friends, family, alumni, teachers, staff, and supporters who enjoyed a delicious sit-down dinner prepared by Catering by Chani and perused auction items in the spacious and welcoming environment of CTA's fabulous campus.


Rabbi Avrohom Drandoff, Head of School closed out the night with a clear message about the impact each of us have on our school, each other, our community and the pride we can all feel as CTA students "Make their mark" on the world. Early remarks by Naomi Myers, Board President, reminded us all of the importance of CTA and to remain steadfast in our support.


Enjoy the pictures, video links, and highlights from an evening which is testament to the optimism many of us are looking for in these dark and threatening times.


Thank you to the many who helped to make the evening a success, especially from a fundraising perspective to ensure that cost is not a barrier for families choosing CTA for their children. The Tribute Journal, the evening's full of corporate sponsors, advertisers, and honoree messages, can be viewed online here. Please patronize our advertisers and show your support to the investors in CTA. Thank you to our dinner co-chairs, Edith Frank, Ariella Nutis, and Simha Wolf for their work. To see a complete list of volunteers, click here.


The entire night was recorded and can be viewed using the buttons below including speeches, the incredible Lower School Choir, Dr. Luan Phan, a reflection on the war in Israel with key videos, the premiere of the Film Studies class' Fall production and so much more.

View Full Video Reel Here
Lorn Spolter Photos

Kicking off the evening was the celebration of the 4th night of Chanukah as 12th grade student Roni Delman lit the magnificent school menorah.

Lower School Choir led by Cheri Friedman, brought music to a new level with their thoughtful songs and bright smiles.

As the war in Israel is on all of our minds, 12th Grade students Li'elle Chaykin and Bina Newman offered reflections and introduced videos of IDF soldiers, Ben-Zion Gisser (Class of 2020) and David and Esther Bernzweig, parents to Eli Bernzweig (Class of 2021)

ESTEEMED HONOREES

Gary Covel


With an introduction by friend and alumnus parent, Ruth Pack Adler, Gary Covel took the stage full of emotion and conviction. He expressed gratitude to his beloved parents and wife, Lana, z"l for their influences. Gary submitted his strong belief in CTA and all that the school stands for. Gary made a strong plea and call to action for continued support specifically through the Endowment Fund through established funds now or legacy gifts. He is eager to speak to CTA supporters about the Endowment and future of Columbus's Jewish children.

Herbert and Francine Greff


Introduced by their son, Joel Greff, an alumnus, board member, and consultant for CTA, Herb and Francine Greff brought levity to the stage with Joel's recounting of their love story for each other, the Jewish community, and how they created a foundation for their family's continued growth and connection to Jewish education and Columbus Torah Academy.

Matt Bailey


A heartfelt introduction by colleague and friend, Steve Guinan, highlighted Mr. Bailey's hard work, dedication, and the impact on every single student who has walked through the doors of CTA since 2003 through gym class and on through our athletic program. Mr. Bailey truly brought it to the stage in gratitude and with love for CTA.


The Lion Nation Athletics Wall was introduced with the first paw print honoring Mr. Bailey's 20th year. To get your paw print, go to www.torahacademy.org/athleticswall

Thank you to Dr. Luan Phan, Chair of the Jeffrey Schottenstein Program for Resilience at OSU, for his charismatic and informative presentation on resilience. His ability to connect with our Jewish community was poignant. His clear tactics based on scientific research to create pathways for healthy living and mental acuity resonated with the attendees and gave a helpful perspective.

Film Studies' Fall Video Premiere

"Make Your Mark"

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Apologies for any errors or omissions. Questions always to info@torahacademy.org

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