Yeshiva Schools of Pittsburgh marked a historic milestone with the dedication and grand opening of their new Mesivta Zal in the new boys’ school building located on the Charles Morris Campus, 403 Greenfield Avenue.
The event, held on the 12th of Elul, celebrated not only the expansion of the school but the enduring legacy of two beloved figures in the community, Rabbi Ephraim and Miriam Rosenblum, whose memory the new Zal honors.
The Mesivta boys began the school year in their brand-new dormitories and Mesivta, providing them with a beautiful, state-of-the-art space for learning and growth. The evening was filled with tributes to the Rosenblums, whose combined 100 years of teaching left an indelible mark on their students and the Pittsburgh Jewish community. Many speakers shared personal stories of how Rabbi and Mrs. Rosenblum shaped their lives and careers, emphasizing the couple’s unwavering commitment to their students and their profound dedication to Jewish education.
Rabbi Yisroel Rosenfeld, the Head Shliach of Western Pennsylvania, welcomed the crowd, setting a warm and meaningful tone for the event.
Rabbi Mendy Rosenblum, a shliach at Chabad of South Hills, spoke about his personal connection to and memories of Dr. Joseph Walder OBM and his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth (Shira Malka) Walder. His heartfelt remarks offered a glimpse into the depth of the Rosenblum family’s relationship with the Walders.
Mrs. Lieba Rudolph, a close friend of the Rosenblum family, spoke movingly about Rabbi and Mrs. Rosenblum’s profound impact on her life. She shared how they inspired her to “live with Geula glasses,” encouraging a perspective filled with hope and a focus on bringing Moshiach through everyday action.
Mrs. Walder, whose foundation’s generosity made the dedication of the Mesivta Zal possible, spoke movingly of the profound personal impact Rabbi Ephraim and Miriam Rosenblum had on her life.
Mrs. Walder shared heartfelt remarks, saying, “I have so much Hakaras Hatov for the Pittsburgh community and such fond memories of my time living here. Much of my story was shaped by Rabbi Ephraim and Miriam Rosenblum.”
She recounted her experiences as a single mother living in Pittsburgh, where the Rosenblums became her mentors, friends, and family. “They embraced me and my little boy. Rabbi Ephraim and Miriam were a team, living humbly, and modestly, and devoting all their energy to helping, supporting, and caring for this community. They were faithful shluchim of the Rebbe, looking out for everyone in every way they could.
Mrs. Walder expressed her gratitude in witnessing the growth of Yeshiva Schools and the continued strength of its community. “Pittsburgh, where my personal and spiritual life flourished under the guidance of Rabbi Ephraim and Miriam Rosenblum, will always hold a special place in my heart. I am humbled that my story now comes full circle with the dedication of this Zal. What can be more meaningful than dedicating a Beis Medrash to the memory of two amazing pillars of Jewish education, from whom I have learned so much?”
Dr. Chaim Oster, president of Yeshiva Schools’ Board of Directors, reflected on the significance of the occasion, stating, “This new Zal is not only a testament to Rabbi and Mrs. Rosenblum’s lifelong dedication to education, but also a promise to the future of Jewish learning here in Pittsburgh. Their legacy will continue to inspire generations of students.”
A highlight of the celebration was a choir of Yeshiva alumni performing a medley of niggunim in honor of Rabbi Rosenblum’s love for music, creating a soulful atmosphere that deeply resonated with attendees. The event concluded with a cocktail and dessert reception.
Rabbi Yossi Rosenblum, CEO of Yeshiva Schools, expressed his and his siblings’ heartfelt appreciation for the dedication, saying, “Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude to the Walder Foundation for investing in this Zal, ensuring that the values and teachings of our parents, Rabbi Ephraim and Miriam Rosenblum, live on in this beautiful space.”
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Rabbi Rosenblum embodied all that was great about the Yeshiva Boys’ Mesivta. His warmth, wisdom and kindness are sorely missed. The new Zal is a wonderful and well-deserved tribute to a great shliach and a true power couple.
Were exceptional educators, chassidim, gomlei chessed. They were 100 sincere and devoted. They uplifted and purified people wherever they were. Huge impact on me as a student.