Against the breathtaking backdrop of New York Harbor, with the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island standing as silent witnesses just beyond the windows of the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Battery Park, supporters, alumni, community leaders, and friends gathered for an unforgettable evening celebrating the 27th Anniversary Dinner of the Manhattan Jewish Experience (MJE).
The event was far more than a gala. It was a celebration of Jewish resilience, identity, and continuity—a living testament to what can happen when young Jews are given the opportunity to reconnect with their heritage.
Founded by Rabbi Mark Wildes, MJE has grown from a modest Upper West Side outreach initiative into a transformative organization with multiple New York locations and a growing presence in Tel Aviv. Over the past 27 years, the organization has touched thousands of lives, helped create 401 marriages, and inspired a new generation of Jewish families, including hundreds of children now being raised in committed Jewish homes.
As Rabbi Wildes reflected during the evening, the Jewish response to antisemitism has never been simply survival—it has always been renewal. Following the attacks of October 7 and the dramatic rise in antisemitism worldwide, MJE has seen participation surge as young Jews seek connection, meaning, and community.
A Symposium of Courage and Conviction
The evening began with an engaging symposium moderated by Australian broadcaster and journalist Erin Molan, whose outspoken support for Israel and the Jewish people has earned her admiration across the Jewish world.
Joining Molan on stage were popular 77WABC radio host Sid Rosenberg, former Auburn University basketball coach Bruce Pearl, actor and singer James Maslow, and Rabbi Wildes.
The discussion was candid, emotional, and often deeply personal. Panelists reflected on family, faith, Israel, antisemitism, and the responsibilities that come with public platforms. Rosenberg spoke passionately about his commitment to using his radio platform to defend Israel and combat antisemitism, telling attendees that his activism stems from outrage over the suffering inflicted on Jewish victims, especially after October 7, and a determination to ensure their voices are heard.
Pearl spoke movingly about his grandfather's experiences and the importance of Jewish strength and success, while Maslow shared how his trip to Israel following October 7 transformed both his advocacy and his personal life. Rabbi Wildes emphasized the importance of education, identity, and pride, reminding attendees that the greatest response to hatred is deeper Jewish engagement. Throughout the conversation, Molan skillfully guided the discussion with warmth, sincerity, and moral clarity.
A Feast of Jewish Hospitality
Following the symposium, guests enjoyed a lavish networking dinner that felt as much like a family simcha as a formal event.
The culinary spread was extraordinary. One side of the ballroom featured a traditional carving station overflowing with fresh turkey, succulent brisket, pastrami perfection, homemade coleslaw, and crisp pickles. Across the room, guests gathered around a dramatic sushi display, where an endless assortment of freshly prepared rolls cascaded from a stunning presentation.
Old friends reunited. Alumni who had met through MJE shared stories of marriages, families, and personal growth. New friendships were formed over plates of kosher delicacies, creating the atmosphere of an extended family gathering rather than a formal banquet.
Honoring Voices Who Inspire
The evening's centerpiece was an inspiring awards ceremony held in the museum's theater.
This year's honorees were selected for their courage in supporting Israel, combating antisemitism, and strengthening Jewish identity. Several presentations drew standing ovations.
Introducing Molan, presenters praised her unwavering commitment to "moral clarity" and her willingness to speak out despite professional criticism and personal attacks. Her support for Israel, they noted, emerged from a commitment to truth and justice.
Rosenberg was honored with the Frontline Media Award for his outspoken defense of Israel. Accepting his award, he spoke strongly about the challenges facing the Jewish community and his determination to continue using his microphone to defend the Jewish people, and to confront antisemitism on the airwaves.
Also recognized during the evening were several individuals whose impact has been felt across the Jewish world and beyond. Actor and musician Maslow received the Jewish Cultural Ambassador Award for proudly embracing his Jewish heritage and using his public platform to strengthen Jewish identity and support Israel, particularly among younger generations. Journalist and social media influencer Emily Austin received the Social Impact Leadership Award for leveraging her growing media presence to inspire Jewish pride and advocate for Israel on a global stage.
The Jewish Heroism Award was presented to Dr. Tuvia Book, whose service as an IDF combat medic, educator, historian, and author has embodied courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the Jewish people. Community leaders Zoya Raynes and Naftali Friedman were recognized with the Communal Service Award for their decades of leadership, philanthropy, advocacy, and dedication to strengthening Jewish communal life.
Pearl, is the most prominent of Jewish voices in college athletics, spoke about his commitment to ensuring that future generations of Jewish Americans can continue to live proudly and openly as Jews. He described his passion for Israel, Jewish identity, and educating young people with characteristic warmth and humor.
The evening also celebrated the remarkable journey of Sarah Joyce Koch, recipient of the Student Recognition Award, whose renewed commitment to Judaism and Torah learning through MJE has become an inspiring example of the organization's transformative impact on young Jewish professionals.
Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal received one of the evening's most heartfelt tributes. Rabbi Wildes recounted nearly two decades of friendship and partnership, praising Rosenthal's scholarship, mentorship, and tireless devotion to MJE students. Over the years, Rosenthal has helped guide hundreds of young Jews through MJE's intensive fellowship programs while creating a lasting legacy of Torah learning and personal connection.
A Living Response
A powerful MJE short film entitled A Living Response served as a recurring theme throughout the evening.
The film highlighted the organization's response to rising antisemitism and the events of October 7—not through fear, but through action. MJE participants traveled to Israel, volunteered, supported soldiers, attended rallies, learned Torah, built community, and strengthened their Jewish identities. As the film declared, MJE is helping create "strong, knowledgeable, and proud Jews" who understand both where they come from and what they stand for.
Ending Like a Jewish Wedding
If the awards ceremony provided inspiration, the celebration afterward supplied the joy. As the formal program concluded with renditions of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "Hatikvah," along with prayers for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, guests flowed back into the reception area, where the celebration continued.
Desserts appeared by the trayful. Music filled the room. Conversations stretched into the night. Friends danced, laughed, and lingered for hours. Alumni introduced spouses and children to the rabbis and educators who had helped shape their journeys.
In many ways, the festive atmosphere captured the essence of MJE itself.
For 27 years, Manhattan Jewish Experience has not merely taught classes or hosted programs. It has built relationships, nurtured Jewish pride, created families, and strengthened a generation.
Standing above New York Harbor, overlooking the gateway through which millions of immigrants entered America in search of a future, the evening offered a powerful reminder that the Jewish story continues to be written—not only through survival, but through connection, faith, family, and joy.
And judging by the energy that filled the Museum of Jewish Heritage long after the formal program ended, that story is still only beginning.
By Robert Pearl
