It all started with a dream to introduce unaffiliated college students to the beauty of Torah and mitzvos. That dream blossomed and transformed the lives of thousands of young adults. The impact of the dream on the greater community was evident when nearly 600 alumni, students, their families, and friends gathered to celebrate Emet Outreach at their 20th Anniversary Gala. “It was an evening to mark an unbelievable milestone, not only for Emet, but also for the countless individuals who have grown alongside our organization and embarked on their own spiritual journeys,” said Rabbi Akiva Rutenberg, Emet Co-Founder and Director.
Held in Old Westbury, the theme of the gala was “Celebrating the Past. Building the Future.” Upon arrival, guests walked through a “Memory Lane” display that showcased Emet’s major achievements and growth throughout the years. They connected with one another at a scenic outdoor smorgasbord with a delectable array of food prepared by Ram Caterers. It was then time to head to the main ballroom for an elegant, candlelit dinner. Guests were welcomed by beautiful singing from Emet’s own Shlomo Mash. Rabbi Binyamin Yuhanan, Couples Division Rabbi, set the tone by leading T’hilim for the chayalim in Israel. In his opening remarks, Rabbi Rutenberg explained that the purpose of the night was more than simply reflecting on Emet’s history. He pointed out that Emet is “just getting started” and noted that the Campus Division is currently enjoying the largest enrollment of any semester to-date. Rabbi Rutenberg also said that many people commented that the event felt like a wedding. He asked the crowd, “Who are our bride and groom tonight?” Rabbi Rutenberg suggested that the bride and groom were the Jewish people and Hashem. He explained that the acronym for the month of Elul is “I am to my beloved as my beloved is to me.” Emet is about bringing Jews back to Hashem, and the dinner was a true simchah to celebrate 20 years of reconnection.
The focal point of the night was a seven-part video presentation that brought Emet’s history and impact to life. Viewers were engrossed in a feature on the story of Emet, and then gave their attention to the honoree presentations. First up was the dedication of the Emet Women’s Division 2024-2025, in memory of Tema bas Yeshaya. This dedication was made by Steven Horowitz as a tribute to his mother Thelma. Known as “Temi,” Mrs. Horowitz was a woman who was devoted to her family and was known for her kindness and acts of chesed. The Emet Leadership Award was next. It was presented to Boris and Marianna Musheyev, long-time Emet students who are immersed in Torah and chesed. The couple literally grew up with Emet since they met as college students on an Emet Shabbaton. Boris credits Emet with giving him a “second chance at life, and a stronger Jewish identity.” The Avodat HaKodesh Award was then given to Elisha and Leah Wellerstein who have made an immeasurable impact on Emet for over seven years. Elisha has taken time away from his busy practice as an attorney to volunteer his business acumen at Emet. The couple has also graciously donated their rental property upstate for Emet Shabbatons.
In the midst of the award presentations, New York State Assemblyman David Weprin presented Emet with a special proclamation for 20 years of service to the community. Next up was the Emet Builder Award to Rafi and Liora Zakinov. While they have moved from Queens to Florida, the Zakinovs are pillars of the community who remain devoted to Emet and many other local organizations. It was a moment to celebrate family when Ruben and Rosa Bababekov received the Parents of the Year Award. As the proud parents of students Daniella and Esther, the Bababekovs have been committed to Emet’s growth and success.
The final award of the evening was an emotional moment that reflected on Emet’s roots. Rabbi Mordechai and Monica Kraft were presented with the Torat Emet Award for their unparalleled devotion to Emet and Jewish outreach for over 20 years. In his role as Co-Founder and Educational Director of Emet, Rabbi Kraft has led by example and inspired students with his masterful teaching. Rabbi and Rebbetzin Kraft have ignited the neshamos of countless students with their warmth and genuine love of Torah.
Joyous dancing and a sumptuous Viennese dessert table brought the evening to a close. “On behalf of everyone at Emet, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the community, students, alumni, partners, and donors. Emet’s enduring impact has only been possible because of the incredible unity and collective support,” said Rabbi Rutenberg. “Wishing everyone a Shanah Tovah. May it be a year of health, peace, and continued growth for klal Yisrael.”
Visit EmetOutreach.org to view the 20-year video series and contribute to the dinner campaign.
