This past Motza’ei Shabbos, December 13, the Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) hosted its 85th Annual Scholarship Dinner at Old Westbury Hebrew Congregation, bringing the YCQ family together for an evening of unity, gratitude, and celebration. The event honored exceptional individuals who have made a lasting impact on the school while raising vital funds for its scholarship program.
This year’s distinguished honorees exemplified dedication and service to YCQ and the broader Jewish community. The Dyckman Family was recognized with the Dor L’Dor Legacy Award for their multi-generational commitment to Torah, tz’dakah, and communal responsibility. Parents of the Year Laya and Evan Daniel were honored for their outstanding contributions and leadership on and off the court. The members of the 2011 Varsity Boys Basketball Team, led by Coach Daniel, were also recognized on the 15th anniversary of their championship.
Rachel and Yisroel Orenbuch received the Hakaras HaTov Award, recognizing the countless hours of behind-the-scenes volunteer work they do for the school and its students. Last but not least, Mr. Gregorio Cruz, YCQ’s beloved security guard, was honored with the Distinguished Service Award for his devotion to keeping the Yeshiva safe and lifting the spirits of everyone who enters its doors.
After a delicious buffet, the program began with the Star-Spangled Banner and HaTikvah. Chairman of the Board Israel Glaser recited T’hilim, followed by the recitation of the Mi SheBeirach for the IDF by JHS Principal Rabbi Stephen Knapp, and Acheinu by Principal Rabbi Mark Landsman. President Julie Faska then addressed the attendees, highlighting the school’s continued growth and success. Before the tributes to the honorees, Dinner Co-Chairs Aliza Peled and Zishy Barth welcomed everyone and thanked the administration for all of its efforts.
Each honoree was then recognized with a moving tribute video and presented with special and personalized gifts. After Mr. Cruz’s film, Rabbi Landsman invited the YCQ faculty onto the stage for a well-deserved standing ovation and photo opportunity.
The event concluded with a Parade of Desserts and a much-anticipated Grand Raffle, where winners received exciting prizes, including a trip to Israel, a lab-grown diamond tennis bracelet, and a full year of free tuition.
YCQ extends its deepest gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and supporters for making the evening a success. Special thanks to Mrs. Malka Fishman and the Dinner Committee for organizing a truly memorable night.
To view dinner videos, the event journal, and the photo gallery, visit www.ycq.org/dinner.
