The Leffell School/Schechter Westchester Alumni Association

Huge congratulations and kol hakavod to our alumni celebrating graduations this month! Whether you’ve just finished your undergraduate degree, are completing a doctorate, or anything in between, we are so proud of your achievements. You continue to be a shining example for our entire kehilah. Don't forget to keep in touch and let us know where your journey is taking you next. DM us or email [email protected]. Your success is our pride!

**ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ✳️ Jeff Jablansky (Class of 2006)**

As we count down to their 20th reunion next week, we’re excited to spotlight a member of the Class of 2006!

From the editor’s desk of The Lion’s Roar to the front lines of an automotive revolution, Jeff Jablansky (Class of 2006) is proof that following your passions can drive a dream career. Today, Jeff is the Head of Communications and Public Relations for Slate Slate.com an American company building affordable, customizable electric trucks. “What excites me at Slate is the opportunity to take on challenges far beyond the storytelling,” he says. “We’re launching a new car company and will start delivering trucks later this year. That’s really hard, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Jeff traces his professional foundation back to his time at Schechter Westchester. He credits his time working with Mr. Bassin on the student newspaper, The Lion’s Roar, for his start in writing and editing, skills he now relies on in his work everyday. He also draws on the lessons learned from real-world science experiments in Mr. Harless’ physics class: “Almost every day, I have to explain technical auto industry concepts for people who aren’t automotive experts. It’s so much easier to explain through a practical demonstration.”

His advice for current Leffell School students is to embrace the journey. “Who knew that my WISE project focused on test-driving cars would lead to a career in the automotive industry? I certainly hoped it would! Your path is just beginning. Let it meander.”

Read more about Jeff at the link in IG bio.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ✳️ Justin Yehuda (Class of 2019)

When Justin Yehuda launched Iron Dome Coffee in 2024, it wasn’t just about great coffee. It was about purpose. “The goal isn’t just to sell coffee,” he says. “It’s to build a community of people who proudly stand with Israel and want their daily habits to reflect their values.”

That sense of kehilah (community) is something Justin traces back to his days at Schechter Westchester. “The greatest lesson I learned at Schechter Westchester is one that every alum will smile at: kehilah. It’s a word that was repeated endlessly when we were students, but in the real world, I’ve realized how important it actually is.”

Justin also credits two teachers with shaping his path: Rabbi Pell, who “profoundly shaped how I see the world” during the senior Lev v’Nefesh experience in Poland, and physics teacher Ms. Wigodsky, whose class “taught me to search for truth and to respond to reality as it is, not as we wish it to be.” Those lessons in authenticity and perspective now guide his entrepreneurial journey: “I’m proud and unashamed to say that I’m leading a community that actively supports Israel in a tangible, impactful way.”

Read more about Justin Yehuda at the link in bio

Mazal tov to Ari Selinger (Class of 2009) and Alexandra Selinger on the birth of their son, Leon Jude Selinger!

Calling the Classes of 2016 & 2021... We can't wait to celebrate your reunions on June 11! Check your inbox for more details and to RSVP.

The Leffell School/Schechter Westchester community wishes a heartfelt mazal tov to Jenny Spitz (Class of 2009) and Clay Cohen on their recent engagement. 💕

It is with great joy that we wish a heartfelt mazal tov to Gabe Sirkin (MS 2007) and Julia Averbach on the birth of their son, Ezra Jacob Sirkin! Mazal tov also to proud grandparents Upper School Nurse Meri and Mark Sirkin.

Class of 2006 — it’s reunion time! 🎉
Join us on Thursday, May 7 to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate your 20 Year High School Reunion! Details and RSVP are in your inbox. We can’t wait to see you there!

Wishing a heartfelt mazal tov to Sarah Holtzer (Class of 2007) and Doug Levin on their recent marriage. Mazal tov also to proud parents, former Middle School Principal Amy Holtzer and Mark Holtzer.

We can't wait to see you on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at this year's Leffell School Annual Gala, Soaring to the Stars!

⭐ Honoring Stacey Wechsler
⭐ Gur Aryeh Award for Young Leadership: Becky Kuperman
⭐ Special Recognition for Years of Service: Dr. William Blank, Jennifer Lividini, and Deborah Rosenthal