In 1985, Ilan and Linda Kaufthal dedicated the gym at The Moriah School in Englewood where their children were students. Thirty years later, in 2015, the Kaufthals rededicated the Moriah gym in gratitude for the school’s role in nurturing their children’s Jewish identity. In a dedication program at the school on Sunday, October 25, Ilan Kaufthal said, “I wanted to show my hakaras hatov to Moriah, even though my children and grandchildren do not live here. I think the entire community has an obligation to support Jewish education.” The Kaufthals still reside in Englewood.

Rabbi Daniel Alter, Head of School, called the Kaufthals a model of leadership by demonstrating that Moriah should be supported by the entire community. He also acknowledged the role of the Moriah Auxiliary Parents (MAP) who contributed money for the gym from the many fundraising events they hold. “When I first came to Moriah, I was most impressed with the parent involvement,” he said. “MAP is there whenever we need help.”

The dedication of the Kaufthals was noted by Seth Gribetz, the president of Moriah and a graduate of the class of ’89. “Ilan and Linda personify leadership. I grew up watching my parents work with the Kaufthals,” he said. Gribetz also thanked MAP. “MAP was there in 1985 and always makes a contribution at pivotal moments.”

Rabbi Shmuel Goldin, spiritual leader of Englewood’s Congregation Ahavath Torah, said he was representing the broader Englewood community in recognizing the Kaufthals’ leadership, and pointed out that athletics have an important place in educating children. “Lessons can be taught and learned in the gym,” he said, “Children learn the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.”

Following the program, Moriah parents faced off against alumni in the newly rededicated gym. The alumni won; they were back on their home turf.

By Bracha Schwartz