Generations of Goodness Celebrated in Massachusetts

Jonathan and Susan Goldsmith, and their children Paul, Sam, and Stephen, were honored on May 27 in Longmeadow, MA at Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy’s Scholarship Reception, titled Generations of Goodness.

Almost 200 family, friends, and LYA community supporters gathered to express their gratitude to this wonderful community oriented family.

David Ratner of Dave’s Pet Food City was the entertaining master of ceremonies for the event.

The Goldsmiths spoke of their involvement at LYA since their oldest son, Paul now a college graduate of Syracuse University, signed up in preschool. Susan said, “LYA has given back to the Goldsmith family and to our entire Greater Springfield community – a love and understanding of our Jewish faith.”

“What we encountered from the moment we set foot in the school is the love, warmth and commitment the school and its teachers have for every child, irrespective of his/her family background or level of Jewish observance,” continued Susan Goldsmith on behalf of her family.

The Goldsmiths’ three sons, Paul, Sam and Stephen, each attended LYA preschool and Hebrew school.  “From the first day we entered the school, our eyes and hearts were opened to this amazing institution. We are forever grateful for what LYA has given our children, which is best described with a quote from our son, Sam, who said, “my time at LYA really helped shape my Jewish identity,” remarked Susan at the reception.

Stuart and Michelle Anfang, family friends, introduced the Goldsmith family, and presented them with a gift from the school – a paper-cut Home Blessing by Ruben Masal.  “In addition to their strong support for LYA, Jonathan and Susan have been valuable leaders to numerous community institutions and professional organizations,” remarked the Anfangs.

A special video, produced for the scholarship reception, was unveiled during the program.  The video shows Rabbi Dovid Edelman, teachers, parents, and students of LYA talking about the family environment felt at LYA and the strong sense of community. The Leader in Me model was highlighted as well.

A lively, fast-paced auction, led by Dr. Mitchell Kupperman, raised an additional $7,600 for the school. LYA thanks the Chairperson of the Dinner, Karen Mernoff, and the entire scholarship reception committee for their tireless efforts to organize a successful and well-run event. The LYA ad journal was distributed during the evening.

LYA is accredited by NEASC, The New England Association of School and Colleges and is a Leader in Me school.  An LYA education offers excellence in Judaic and secular studies for toddlers through eighth grade with individualized attention, as well as providing family education, and holiday programming.