Message from Ben Zakkai Chair Isabelle Novak:
It is my pleasure to give you the chance to meet our new candidate members.
Ben Zakkai is NCSY’s “Alumni Hall of Fame” and for 59 years our membership has annually, by secret ballot, selected new Alumni Inductees as well as up to twenty “candidate members” from among several thousand graduating NCSY high school seniors.I am delighted to share a brief biography of these fifteen extraordinary teen leaders.
Reading their stories is to be reassured that the NCSY magic still works as it has for so many of us for so many years!
Shira Asulin – Orlando, Florida
Chapter Officer; Regional Officer; Regional President…Shira’s NCSY trajectory from her first tentative steps on the Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (ASTJJ) to her second summer on Yeshivat ASTJJ, to her dynamic leadership of Southern Region through a difficult transition year, is the stuff of NCSY legend. This Public-school Honors Student will be attending Machon Ma’ayan next year with the assistance of an Anne Samson Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship. She has had a profound impact on her peers; leads through example, inspiring in her modesty, and unstinting personal growth.
Esther Avidan – Fair Lawn, New Jersey
As a JSU Board Member, Esther embodies the essence of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to personal growth that epitomizes the spirit of Ben Zakkai.
Two years ago, she embarked on a transformative adventure with our TJJ Summer cohort, which ignited a spark within her soul and forever altered the course of her life. Since then, Esther has been on a remarkable trajectory of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment.
One of Esther’s most remarkable achievements is her steadfast commitment to observing Shabbat, a decision that she made courageously and wholeheartedly. In a home environment that did not initially share her devotion, her determination shone brightly as she embraced this sacred tradition with unwavering resolve. Her dedication not only impacted her own life but also inspired her younger sisters to follow in her footsteps, a testament to the profound influence she wields.
Her journey is a testament to the profound impact of the NCSY/JSU experience and the enduring legacy of the Ben Zakkai Scholarship. Without a doubt, Esther is not only deserving of Ben Zakkai Membership, but is also destined to make a lasting impact on the world around her.
Esther will be attending Be’ar Miriam Seminary next year, assisted by an Anne Samson Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship
Avi Becker – Memphis, Tennessee
Spending two years as Midwest Regional Board/Regional President, after two years as Pittsburgh Chapter Board…as soon as I met Avi when he moved to Memphis a couple years ago, it was clear to me that he was a leader amongst his peers. His strong, assertive, and confident personality really makes him stand out. I have no doubt that these traits came from Avi’s involvement in NCSY throughout his High School career, making it very clear that NCSY has helped shape him as an individual.
Avi is also viewed as a leader by all of his friends. Each time the Memphis Chapter board has discussed who should speak at an event or give a dvar torah, everybody answers in unison, “Avi Becker.” Every teen knows that Avi will be the one to step up when a speaker or host is needed for an event.
Aside from Avi’s personality and leadership abilities, Avi is a role model for all to look up to. Watching his religious and character growth from the day he moved to Memphis was inspiring. He spends much of his free time learning Torah and thinking about how he can improve himself and others. He treats each one of his friends, teachers, and Rebbeim with respect and always makes them feel important. If there’s ever a kid sitting on the side by himself during an event, you know Avi is going to go talk to him. Avi’s strong passion for NCSY and its mission make it clear that he wants to be tied to the program for years to come. Avi will be continuing next at Shalavim assisted by an Elaine and Rabbi Pinchas Stolper Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship and plans to attend Yeshiva College afterwards.
Devora Behnam – Great Neck, NY
Chapter Board Member, Devorah Behnam is an extremely special soul, filled with light and kindness. She radiates positivity and determination, evident in her role as a go-getter as she was recently chosen to lead her senior grade in the school’s competitive Shiriyah. Her heart is as special as her mind is positive, a testament to the wisdom instilled by her mother z”l, who taught her to “think good and it shall be good”. Devorah’s thoughtfulness knows no bounds, as seen in the thoughtful Chanukah present, she bought me—a copy of the same Pirkei Avot her mother used to learn with her, along with a heartfelt note. Even through all Devorah has gone through these past few months, like the passing of her mother, she still manages to keep her spirits high and “just keep on smiling”. I am lucky enough to say that Devorah often accompanies me to different shiurim, which is an example of her eagerness to learn and grow. I am certain that spending time in Israel while learning and working on herself, Devorah’s life will change for the better and give her the clarity she is searching for. Devorah Behnam is the perfect candidate for Ben Zakkai Membership. She will be attending Be’ar Miriam Seminary next year BE”H.
Taly Benzaquen – Skokie, IL
Central East Regional President, National Board Member: Taly Benzaquen, embodies authentic and genuine growth and dedication to Torah. Her innate humility and inspiring leadership serve as an example for others to follow. Passionate and deeply connected to her Jewish identity, she embraces every opportunity to make a positive impact. Throughout the years, I’ve known her to possess a heart of gold, consistently striving to better herself each day. Her peers have pointed to her unique level of dedication in leading throughout the community, in the classroom, and in various volunteer organizations. Her impact has been profound, and it is clear that Taly is one of the future Jewish leaders. She will be attending Shalavim for Women next year assisted by a Ben Zakkai Mikey Butler Memorial Scholarship and afterwards plans to continue at Stern College for Women.
Kailey Caicedo – Westfield, New Jersey
Kailey converted when she was a young child with her mother. She has been growing daily on her spiritual journey. She has been involved with NCSY since 11th grade when she attended Yarchei Kallah. She continued her NCSY journey by attending the ASTJJ followed by extending to join Michlelet Mechina. She is constantly in touch with NCSY staff asking questions about Judaism. She is planning on spending gap year in Israel at Midreshet Tehillah assisted by a Leah Weiner Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship. She plans to continue at the Lander College for Women/The Anna Ruth and Mark Hasten School for Women where she has been awarded the coveted Ou/NCSY-Touro Sarah Rovklah and Dr. Bernard Lander Memorial Leadership Scholarship. Her love for Torah is both palpable and contagious.
Mor Chiprot – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
As a Regional JSU Board Member, Mor embarked on her NCSY journey in her freshman year, driven by a profound desire for spiritual connection and growth. Despite residing in a community without an active NCSY chapter, Mor’s determination remained unwavering. Instead of letting geographical and logistical obstacles deter her, she proactively sought out Jewish experiences across the Greater South, showcasing her steadfast commitment to spiritual exploration and community engagement.
Her transformative experience on NCSY’s Anne Samson TJJ in 2022 marked the beginning of her profound relationship with Hashem. Her influence on the program was palpable, adding a special energy and spirit to every moment. Her commitment to growth was evident as she immersed herself fully in the experience, leaving behind distractions and embracing every opportunity.
As the first-ever out-of-state Anne Samson TJJ president, Mor’s leadership and dedication shone brightly, inspiring those around her and shaping the program’s culture. She’s navigated challenges with grace and determination, embodying resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Mor will be attending Ba’er Miriam seminary in Israel assisted by a Ben Zakkai Anne Samson Memorial Scholarship. She has been offered scholarships to Stern College, as well as the Orthodox Union/Touro University Sarah Rivkah and Dr. Bernard Lander Memorial Scholarship. Let the bidding begin.
Talia Dubowsky – Pikesville, Maryland
Talia epitomizes what NCSY is here to do. A complicated family background, combined with going to a secular private school had Talia with almost no Jewish identity to speak of, which is where NCSY came in. Talia took advantage of everything we had to offer, from JSU, shabbatons, yarchei kallah, latte and learning, learning programs, you name it, and it has resulted in Talia heading to seminary next year.
Talia’s is heading to Machon Maayan Seminary next year assisted by an Anne Samson Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship.
Gabriel (Gabe) Goldstein – Oak Park, KS
Chapter President; Regional Vice President…Gabe commenced his involvement with NCSY in the spring of his 9th-grade year. After participating in numerous Latte and Learn events alongside JSU at his public school, he aspired to assume a leadership role within his NCSY chapter by applying for the chapter board. Gabe approached his role on the board with utmost seriousness, consistently seeking guidance from his city director on how he could contribute more. In 10th grade, Gabe organized and facilitated his own Latte and Learn program, which he named “Nosh and Nature”, delving into various topics in Jewish history. Following his 10th-grade year, Gabe attended NCSY’s Anne Samson TJJ during the summer and opted to extend his stay for an additional 2 weeks to be part of Kollel Mechina.
Always ready to lend a hand and assume responsibilities within NCSY, Gabe spent 2 dedicated years as VP of Israel Affairs on his chapter board before being elected as Chapter Board President in his senior year.
Gabe plans to attend Yeshivat Orayta next year, assisted by an Aharon Gross Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship. He plans to enroll in Yeshiva College afterwards.
Yoni Greenwald – Coral Springs, FL
Regional Board Member Yoni Greenwald’s indomitable spirit and relentless drive to thrive have propelled him forward. From the moment he stepped into the NCSY community upon his family’s move to South Florida in 2020, Yoni wasted no time immersing himself in its vibrant and enriching atmosphere.
Yoni’s transformative experience with the Anne Samson TJJ epitomizes his insatiable hunger for spiritual enrichment and growth. Not content with merely one summer, he returned for a second, driven by a burning desire to delve deeper into his Jewish identity and heritage.
His extensive involvement with NCSY, including participation in Yarchei Kalla, Israeli Advocacy initiatives, and more than 15 regional and local Shabbatons, underscores his deep-rooted passion for Jewish learning.
During a regional Shabbaton, amidst a moment of unexpected challenge, Yoni demonstrated remarkable composure and leadership. Approached just five minutes before the slot, he was asked to step up and speak. Without hesitation, he calmly agreed, showcasing not only his grace under pressure but also his unwavering commitment to his peers. In those fleeting moments, Yoni delivered a truly inspiring message to hundreds of teens, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to hear him.
Sydney Magerman – Lower Merion, PA
Chapter President; Regional President, Sydney will be learning BE”H in seminary in Israel next year. She has been an outstanding Chapter and Regional President. She is a self-starter who motivates others and embodies what NCSY can achieve when we empower teens to help shape the Jewish future. We will miss her next year, but I have confidence she will come back and play a significant role as an advisor and lay leader.
Emuna Posner – Brooklyn, New York
Brooklyn 4G President, Emuna, has been a powerhouse. At every Brooklyn 4G event, she introduces herself to new participants, making sure the other girls are engaged, and is all around a friendly face. 4G NCSY has given Emuna a new sense of self-esteem and self pride. She is a very active member of the chapter and 4G Brooklyn would not be the same without her. Ben Zakkai honors teens who have made a great impact in NCSY and I can safely say that Emuna personifies impact and what 4G Brooklyn is all about. Emuna faced a series of severe personal challenges a few years ago and publicly credits 4G for giving her the strength and the Emunah (pun intended) to persevere and be stronger. She will be attending Midreshet Tehillah next year assisted by a Ben Zakkai Rabbi Ralph Pelcovitz Memorial Scholarship prior to attending Stern College for Women.
Logan Steinman – Boca Raton, FL
Chapter Board; Regional JSU President; Regional Board member, Logan Steinman is an extremely dedicated NCSY and JSU member. He has a fiery passion for Jewish education and helping klal Yisrael. Next year he will be hopefully attending Derech in Jerusalem, where he will be able to have full time Jewish education. Logan is one of the first to come to events and has been known to go to multiple Jewish events, even on the same day, if it means he can experience more education on various topics offered in the Jewish community. Logan would be a fantastic member of the Ben Zakkai community. He will be attending Derech Ohr Sameach in the fall assisted by a Bessie and Captain Hyman Galbut Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship.
Chani Vayavodkina – From Belrus attending yeshiva high school in Memphis
As a Chapter Board Member, if there’s one word that best describes Chani, it’s an inspiration. Chani moved to Memphis from Belarus during her High school years, knowing little to no English. She knew nobody, had little experience in America, and had very little Jewish knowledge. Of course that means she had never heard of NCSY before. Right off the bat, Chani threw herself in; she attended every NCSY event that she could and got involved in every way possible. Looking at her now, you’d never be able to guess her past!
Chani has been in America ever since moving, and she has not had it easy. She hasn’t been able to see her parents in over 3 years due to the current events in Russia, yet she always has a smile on her face. Since Chani doesn’t have any real family here, she has made NCSY her family, building close bonds with her City Director and other senior staff members.
Chani will be attending the Lander College for Women and is an inaugural recipient of the Ben Zakkai Scholarship being presented to NCSYers who go straight to Yeshiva without having a gap year.
Emma Wruble – Memphis, Tennessee
Chapter Board Member, Emma has a strong desire to increase her own personal knowledge and explore new ideas. She may strike you as a quiet, keep to herself girl, but once you get to know her, she can really impress you. While you might not guess it, Emma is the first one to raise her hand during a discussion to give her input or ask a question. She isn’t afraid to share her opinion or ask for an explanation on something she doesn’t fully understand.
Emma is passionate about NCSY and is always looking to help and facilitate events. She’s an active chapter board member who enjoys every moment. Emma will be attending Midreshet Moriah assisted by an Anne Samson Memorial Ben Zakkai Scholarship, after-which she plans to attend Touro’s Lander College for Women assisted by an Orthodox Union/Touro University Sarah Rivkah and Dr. Bernard Lander Leadership Memorial Scholarship.
The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.