Hillel Academy announced that Sandra and Fred Weitsman have donated an outdoor sculpture that will stand as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel. The sculpture will be formally dedicated at the school’s 61st annual Journal Celebration on Thursday, September 11, which will be held at Temple Israel. The evening will include a ceremony honoring the Journal awards recipients – Dr. Howard Warner, CHOW Food Pantry and Rabbi Rachel Esserman – and the Weitsmans’ generosity, while commemorating the lives lost. All members of the community are welcome to attend. Tickets for the Journal Celebration can be purchased by e-mailing hilleljournalgroup@gmail.com or calling 607-304-4544.
“The Weitsmans, longtime supporters of Jewish life and education in Broome County and beyond, felt deeply moved to create a lasting memorial that would both honor the memory of the victims and offer a place of reflection and resilience for generations to come,” said organizers of the event.
“We wanted to do something that helps children and families connect with the meaning of Jewish memory and solidarity,” said Sandra Weitsman. “This sculpture is not just a remembrance of lives lost, but a reminder of the strength and hope that lives on.”
The sculpture, which will be installed near the entrance to Hillel Academy, was commissioned from Boston-area artist Dale Rogers and designed to invite contemplation, learning and connection. Crafted in Cor-Ten Steel and Stainless Steel, it incorporates elements of Jewish symbolism; its inscription will read, “In memory of the lives lost on October 7, 2023. May their memory be a blessing.”
Dr. Alexander Kaminsky, president of Hillel Academy, noted that the sculpture will serve as both an educational and spiritual landmark for the school community: “Our students will grow up seeing this sculpture every day – asking questions, learning its story and carrying its message forward. It’s a gift that will shape our school’s identity and values for years to come.”
“We invite the community to share in this powerful moment of remembrance and unity,” said organizers. “In a time of global uncertainty and local resolve, Sandra and Fred Weitsman’s gift is a testament to the enduring power of memory, the importance of Jewish education, and the ability of art to help a community heal.”