Over 200 people gathered from near and far at Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor to dedicate the school’s new library and renovated spaces. Guests enjoyed a presentation and interview with children’s author, Leslie Kimmelman, who shared her love of books and encouraged writers to pursue their dream. This year at Hebrew Day School, the theme students are exploring year-round is: qualities of a mensch. Fittingly, Ms. Kimmelman read her book, How to Be a Mensch by A. Monster. Hebrew Day School alum and Assistant Director of Cultural Arts at the JCC of Greater Ann Arbor, Nat (Lewis Bernstein) Bension, interviewed Ms. Kimmelman about her career writing original books and editing for Sesame Street, Disney, and Nickelodeon. Ms. Kimmelman created the character “Julia” on Sesame Street. Guests had the opportunity to have their books signed by Ms. Kimmelman, buy 50th anniversary shirts, and dedicate bookplates for the new library.
After delicious refreshments and tours of the school’s beautiful new spaces, the group regathered to hear from Head of School, Rav Will Keller, who spoke of the renovation project’s journey and its meaning for the school. President of the Board of Trustees, Monica Woll Rosen, dedicated the Torah ark in memory of her sister, Samantha Woll (z”l). This ark was made from the same materials as the ark Sam had designed for her own congregation with her friend and Hebrew Day School alum, Eytan Sussman. In addition, Michael Tait dedicated the Chuck and Sunnie Tait Learning Center in memory of his parents. Sunnie Tait (z”l) was the school’s first librarian and a dear friend of the school’s. Next, Samantha Hendren and Jason Schwalb dedicated the new library to Anna Schwalb’s memory. They spoke of giving back to the Day School community that had been there for them in their time of need. They are pleased that Anna will be remembered, and people will learn about her as they enjoy this beautiful and bright new space. The program concluded with Anna’s grandfather, Rabbi Fred Schwalb, hanging the Schwalb family’s mezuzah at the door of the new library and reciting the blessing over that mezuzah.
This day was momentous, loving, and meaningful for the school community–a reminder of the power of legacy in the Ann Arbor Jewish community. The school also announced that they are pleased to share this new library with their partner, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, and the broader Jewish Community. If you would like to support this project or schedule a tour of the new space, please contact Tamar Jacobson at Tjacobson@hdsaa.org, 734-971-4633, or visit www.HDSAA.org.