The Leaders Jewish University in Odessa recently held a graduation ceremony to celebrate the young adults who completed their long and impressive academic journey. The University includes more than 100 students, many of whom are graduates of the Mishpacha Orphanage in Odessa and the Or Avner schools across Ukraine. In addition to providing a robust academic education, the University acts as a second home to many students who form deep and lasting relationships with their peers and teachers, and they solidify their Jewish heritage. Over the past several years, as the ongoing crisis has enveloped the country, the University has become even more important, educating and nurturing young Jewish leaders and preparing them for important roles in their profession and community.
The event, which included distinguished guests from Odessa’s academic community, including the University of Economics, the Pedagogical University, the National University, the College of Trade and Economics, and the Law Academy, began with a moment of spiritual reflection and a moment of silence. Rabbi Mendy Wolf welcomed all attendees, on behalf of the Chief Rabbi of Odessa and Southern Ukraine, Rabbi Avraham Wolff, along with Rabbi Fishel Chichelnitsky, and University Rector Naum Malamud. Graduates were presented with diplomas, and they made short presentations, recalling moments from their university experiences—study sessions, holidays, dormitory life, and celebrations. Particularly moving were the expressions of gratitude to the University’s educators who served as mentors and sources of inspiration. Members of the alumni surprised the graduates with video messages, sharing fond memories and describing how the University shaped their spiritual and professional paths. The evening concluded with dinner and group photos.
As the students marked the completion of their studies, they embraced the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Their graduation represented years of dedication, personal development, and community involvement, and an affirmation of their potential to impact the world around them. The young men and women leave the school with lasting bonds to the Leaders Jewish University family and the wider Jewish community.
We are proud to support the students of the Leaders Jewish University, as well other schools around the country. Together we save lives and restore hope.
