What do a Rabbi, a Congresswoman, a cancer researcher, and a radio show host all have in common? All these people, and more, were honored as “Points of Light” at the recent YU Chanukah Convocation Dinner on December 16 in New York’s Waldorf Astoria for their exemplification Yeshiva University’s mission.
All nine honorees have a connection to Yeshiva University in various different capacities: three undergraduate students, two affiliates of YU graduate schools, one assistant Professor, one RIETS affiliate, one alumnus, and one YU high school student. The well-rounded group showcased the widespread and unique benefits that Yeshiva University has to offer.
Each honoree had the opportunity to light a symbolic candle on the menorah in front of the dinner audience. “There are so many lights that shine brightly at Yeshiva University,” said President Richard M. Joel. “Tonight, we focus on the individuals who serve as exemplars of the past, present, and future of Yeshiva University.”
This specific award was instituted in full force in 2005 under President Joel’s tutelage. The honorees are chosen based on recommendations from deans, administrators and student life committees. After the nominations are made, Joel has the final say.
“Now that the award has become so popular and well recognized, the process has become much easier,” said Daniel Gordon, Manager of Communications and Public Affairs for the Office of the President. “More people know about the award and are forthcoming with well deserving names and ideas.”
Rivka Abbe, a senior at Central, YU’s High School for Girls, was honored for her remarkable service to the YU community, even at such an early point in her Yeshiva University career. Abbe led 250 high school students on a lobby mission in Washington D.C. to meet with members of congress to discuss U.S. policy and Israel advocacy. She recently launched a teen radio show on the Nachum Segal Network, “Teen Spirit with Rivka Abbe,” which highlights the potential that Jewish teens have to create change in their own communities and on behalf of Israel. She looks forward to attending the Stern Honors program after she spends a year learning in Israel. “As a student in Stern, I will be able to reach broader scope of people, not just my peers in the New York area,” recognizes Abbe. “Already, YU has given me the opportunity and resources to be able to do all that I have done. They have also been my inspiration, whether I decide to go into medicine or politics, I know that I can use it to advance the Jewish community.”
There is no honorarium for the awardees or any formal reciprocation to the University, rather there is an assumption that they are extraordinary people that embody what YU has to offer to the greater community. The Points of Light have proven that they are true luminaries of Yeshiva University. As Gordon attests, “The result is that these people go on to continue the upward trajectory of continuous service as leaders.”