The Yeshiva of Central Queens proudly announces its honorees for the upcoming Annual Scholarship Dinner, to be held on Motzaei Shabbos, December 13, at RAM Caterers in Old Westbury. This year’s distinguished awardees represent the very best of the YCQ community: devotion, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to the school.
Hakarat Hatov Award: Rachel & Yisroel Orenbuch
Rachel and Yisroel (Yissy) Orenbuch personify the definition of active partnership in education. Since joining the YCQ family in 2007, they have operated under a simple yet powerful philosophy: take action rather than complain. For the Orenbuchs, being a parent at YCQ means rolling up one’s sleeves to improve the school not just for their own family, but for the entire community. Even after moving from Kew Gardens Hills to West Hempstead, the Orenbuchs have remained extremely involved in YCQ, doing whatever they can to help in any way they possibly can.
Rachel and Yissy have become fixtures of daily life at the yeshivah, often working behind the scenes on essential but overlooked tasks. Rachel has served as a dedicated member of the PTO and, since 2020, has acted as a parent liaison on the Board of Trustees. They are perhaps best known for their hands-on, tireless efforts, specifically their deep involvement in organizing and managing the school’s Lost & Found, ensuring that misplaced items find their way back to their owners. Their family vehicle, affectionately known as the “OrenBUS,” is a familiar sight, frequently utilized to transport their children’s friends to events, haul equipment and supplies, and assist with logistics whenever the school has a need.
The Orenbuchs’ approach to school challenges has always been one of collaboration, viewing the administration and faculty as true partners. They credit this drive to their own parents, who taught them that while one may not always be able to write the largest check, one can always contribute time, talent, and energy. This legacy is being passed down to their seven children, all of whom have called YCQ home: Elazar (‘17), Daniella (‘19), Simcha (‘20), Chani (‘22), Levi & Shimmy (‘23), and Benny (Grade 7).
From their older children currently serving in the IDF and Sheirut Leumi to their youngest currently walking the halls of YCQ, the entire family has learned the value of giving back. Rachel and Yissy Orenbuch are true pillars of the yeshivah, teaching us all that the most valuable gift one can give to a school is the gift of their time.
Distinguished Service Award: Mr. Gregorio Cruz
For Mr. Gregorio Cruz, the role of security at the Yeshiva of Central Queens extends far beyond the physical safety of the building. With every patrol, he safeguards the very spirit and positive atmosphere of the students and faculty who walk through its doors each day. A true fixture at YCQ since October 2012, Mr. Cruz has dedicated well over a decade to ensuring that every school day begins and ends with positivity. His remarkable consistency and warm presence have made him an indispensable part of the institution.
His personal philosophy is simple and profound: When you look in the mirror in the morning, you choose the attitude you will present to the world. For Mr. Cruz, that choice is always to greet others with an authentic smile and an open heart, believing that a warm and genuine welcome can instantly change the trajectory of a student’s entire day. He understands that for some children, his friendly face may be the first positive interaction they have before classes even begin.
Mr. Cruz begins his day long before sunrise. Arriving by 5:30 a.m., he secures the facility, checks surveillance cameras, and conducts a physical walk-through to ensure the safety of those arriving for Shacharit. Yet the operational aspects quickly give way to what he considers the most meaningful part of his work: human connection. Mr. Cruz views himself not only as a security professional but as an accessible mentor and listener. He takes time to engage with the students, answer their unexpected questions, and offer small pieces of advice—words he hopes will stay with them as they navigate the challenges of growing up.
A devoted father and doting grandfather, Mr. Cruz offers counsel both to his own family and the broader YCQ family, consistently advising everyone to take life “one day at a time.” Drawing inspiration from the quiet wisdom found in classic Disney movies, he often reminds others to “let it go” and not carry unnecessary stress home. He is immensely grateful to the YCQ staff and administration for welcoming him as part of their extended family. Mr. Gregorio Cruz remains a steadfast pillar of the community, protecting the school with unwavering vigilance and always leading with his heart.
YCQ is also proud to recognize its other honorees: the Dyckman Family, recipients of the Dor L’Dor Award, honoring their multigenerational commitment and connection to YCQ; and Parents of the Year, Evan & Laya Daniel, for their partnership, involvement, and dedication to the YCQ community.
Please join us at the dinner at 7:30 p.m. on Motzaei Shabbos, December 13, at RAM Caterers, 21 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, NY. For reservations and journal ads, visit www.ycq.org/dinner.