Always known for innovation, AMIT’s sold-out Sunday, Nov. 9, national event lived up to its reputation. A capacity crowd of more than 350 filled Lower Manhattan’s Museum of Jewish Heritage with AMIT supporters from as far as California and Israel. “It was an amazing and enthusiastic turnout of long-time and new supporters,” said AMIT president Shari Safra. “Every age was represented, with all coming together to pay tribute to our honorees and experience an incredible program.”
Following a buffet, guests were ushered into the state-of-the-art theater for a moving, Broadway-quality experience hosted by talented Israeli actor Shira Haas. The program featured guest speaker retired Gen. Michael Kurilla, former commander of U.S. Central Command; two films that remembered fallen heroes from the AMIT family; and, of course, tributes to the honorees whose extraordinary leadership has been essential to AMIT’s growth. Each video presentation was followed by personal reflections from the featured personalities.
In a behind-the-scenes film, guests were privy to interviews with AMIT alumni serving in the Israeli Air Force who flew in the attacks on Iran in the 12-Day War in June. Two of the pilots then appeared in person to salute their “brother in arms,” Kurilla, thanking him for his steadfast support for Israel.
Kurilla, who led US efforts to protect Israeli interests during the war, deeply impressed the crowd with his message of solidarity and strength. His track record of commitment to Israel’s security and warm friendships with its military leaders underscore his influence in strengthening the U.S.–Israel partnership.
Two films highlighted AMIT fallen heroes. Rav Eilon Weiss and Yakir Teitelbaum, a teacher and alum from AMIT Eitan High School for Boys in Ma’ale Adumim fell in Lebanon just a few days apart. The school created a memorial garden in their memory to honor these two warriors, continuing their unbreakable bond forever.
A second video told the story of Matan Abergil, an AMIT alum who selflessly protected his fellow soldiers on Oct. 7, giving up his own life. His high school principal, Einat Rubin, of AMIT HaOfek Technological HS, was inspired to donate a kidney in Matan’s memory. She and Arik Abergil, Matan’s father, spoke to the audience. “Matan sacrificed himself to save the lives of his friends and comrades. This kidney donation was my way of emulating him,” Rubin said.
Tributes to honorees were embedded throughout the program and showcased their unique contributions.
Elana and Daniel Miller, who pioneered a Bitcoin gift—a first for AMIT—brought fresh energy to the gathering, introducing a new community to AMIT’s work. The Millers demonstrated the value of forging a strong connection to Israel through its children and how to think outside the box to make a difference.
Norma Holzer, AMIT’s 17th president, has had a tremendous impact on the organization, mentoring many of its leaders. She is also the only president whose mother—Dina Dyckman, AMIT’s eighth president—filled the same role, making her devotion to AMIT the ultimate family legacy. In a heartfelt presentation to Holzer, six presidents went to the stage representing decades of dedication to AMIT’s students.
Finally, Chella Safra, together with her husband Moise, dedicated the new Athletic Complex on AMIT’s Kfar Batya campus. Chella was introduced via video by Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who lauded the couple’s lifelong commitment to advancing Israel’s future through the education of its children.
A moving song-and-dance segment featured AMIT Ron Arad Rehovot student Noa Pinchas singing a soulful rendition of “A New Day Will Rise,” and professional dancer Shaylee Kramer, accompanied by the AMIT Modi’in Dance Group. Their performances captured the audience and spotlighted AMIT’s approach of fostering each student’s unique talents.
The evening concluded with a scale model cake of AMIT’s new Gabel & Straus Family Campus at Kfar Batya in Ra’anana, created by Strauss Bakery. The centerpiece of the delicious dessert buffet gave supporters a preview of the revolutionary educational hub at the heart of AMIT operations in Israel.
Chana Shields, who co-chaired the event with her husband Dan and Joyce and Daniel Straus, said: “The energy at the event was palpable—the incredible honorees and devoted AMIT supporters were united by their commitment to building Israel and strengthening its future.”
The evening served as a launchpad for AMIT’s upcoming gatherings in Philadelphia, Chicago, Boston and Florida, as well as a special event in Jerusalem on Thanksgiving Day.
To find out more about AMIT, visit: www.amitchildren.org
