NCFJE Celebrates 85th Annual Awards Dinner at the Edison Ballroom, Honoring Leaders in Community, Service, and Philanthropy

More than 300 guests filled the iconic Edison Ballroom in Manhattan on Sunday, November 23, 2025, for NCFJE’s 85th Annual Awards Dinner, an uplifting evening marked by unity, purpose, and profound community spirit. Highlights included the presentation of awards and gifts to distinguished honorees and a deeply moving video debut of four new children’s playrooms built at Schneider Children’s Hospital in Israel, including one dedicated to the memory of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, which drew emotional applause from the packed room.

This year’s honorees represent the heart of service, leadership, and generosity that defines NCFJE’s mission. 

Diane and Adam Katz, devoted community builders, were honored for their enduring commitment and longstanding support for NCFJE. 

Ariel and Elana Yosefi, proud parents of four and active leaders in their Queens community, were recognized for their dedication to Jewish education, most notably Elana’s work helping more than 100 children transition from public school to yeshiva through the PSTY program. 

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon received the Excellence in Civil Rights Leadership Award for her national leadership in defending constitutional freedoms and championing equal justice. 

William E. Rapfogel, an accomplished executive and respected civic leader, was honored for decades of impactful service strengthening communal institutions and advancing social support networks. 

Leadership for the evening included Dinner Chairwoman Michelle Domb, celebrated for her philanthropic initiatives such as Toys for Hospitalized Children and the Bibas Playroom project, and Co-Chair Julia Kupferman, who continues her family’s proud NCFJE legacy through her work in education and children’s support. 

Lewis Hershkowitz, CEO of Big Geyser and Scroll of Honor Chairman, was recognized for his industry leadership and steadfast support of NCFJE’s mission.

The evening reflected NCFJE’s unwavering dedication to compassion, education, and Jewish continuity. Guests left inspired and united by the organization’s ongoing work and the powerful impact of the community members who help sustain it.