In a beautiful and inspiring evening at the famous Phipps Conservatory, Yeshiva Schools of Pittsburgh gathered over 100 supporters to honor Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick, a proud Squirrel Hill resident and a longtime friend of the Jewish community.
The night began with elegant hors d’oeuvres in the lush gardens before guests were seated for a gourmet dinner with the Senator. Rabbi Yossi Rosenblum, Head of School, welcomed the crowd warmly, sharing how meaningful it is for the Jewish community to have friends in government who stand with them in moments of both joy and challenge.
Dr. Chaim Oster, President of the Board, highlighted Senator McCormick’s vote and role in passing a sweeping federal bill that includes crucial support for private Jewish education through tax credits, set to begin in 2027. “Jewish education provides the soul of Jewish continuity,” Dr. Oster said, “but we need the body – the financial resources – to make it possible. This bill is nothing short of transformative, providing a path to financial stability for our schools and opening doors for more families to give their children the priceless gift of Jewish education.”
The Yeshiva Boys Choir brought many to tears with a beautiful performance of Acheinu davening for the hostages, followed by a brand-new song, Who Believed in You?, composed by Yeshiva Schools parent Mr. Dovid Taub exclusively for the event. The song was inspired in part by Senator McCormick’s bestselling book, co-authored with his wife, Dina, and beautifully tied into the Chassidishe concept of a mashpia – a mentor who believes in and guides others.
Vice President of the Board, Mr. Izzy Rudolph, presented a plaque to the Senator honoring his dedication and advocacy for the Jewish community and Israel.
Senator McCormick spoke movingly about the honor of serving and the twin challenges facing the Jewish people – the horrors of October 7th and the shocking rise of antisemitism across the U.S. and beyond. “You can always count on me to be a voice of moral clarity in the Senate,” he promised to a standing ovation.
Guests enjoyed a gourmet meal surrounded by floral décor, and each attendee received a copy of Who Believed in You. From Squirrel Hill to the halls of Washington, the message rang clear: when leaders and communities stand together, the future of Jewish education and Jewish life shines brighter than ever.
