‘We must build for the future’
"THE biggest risk Mount Sinai faces is … that we don't build. That we don't move forward."
“THE biggest risk Mount Sinai faces is … that we don’t build. That we don’t move forward.”
That was the message the Mount Sinai College (MSC) capital appeal co-chairman Ben Levi delivered to more than 500 people at the school’s event at the Randwick Racecourse last Sunday night.
The school has been awarded JCA’s annual capital appeal and is trying to raise $8 million for a new central hub and arrival area, incorporating a cultural entrance and informal gathering and learning spaces.
There will also be remodelled learning clusters, a new library, new specialist learning centre, new communal kitchen and a new link building over two levels incorporating a leadership and innovation centre.
“We are now at a critical point in the school’s history,” Levi, who graduated from the school in 1994 said. “If we want to continue to fill the top classes, if we want to remain an Apple Distinguished School, if we want to be recognised as a world leader in educational excellence, we need our infrastructure to match our heart.
“Long ago, we graduated from demountable (classrooms).
“We now need to graduate again into the buildings that support the learning of tomorrow.”
Levi reflected on his own time at MSC, and said that he received three educations.
“The secular, with English, mathematics, science, and what we then thought was technology.
“The Jewish education; with Hebrew, Jewish studies and Jewish history. And, perhaps upon reflection, most importantly – Mount Sinai gave me a life education.”
Levi is co-chairing the appeal with his father, Ian, who was president of Mount Sinai from 1992-96.
“Tonight, we will acknowledge 36 years of Mount Sinai’s achievements, see the fruits of our labour through the energy and passion of our teachers, parents and students,” Ian said.
“The classroom of tomorrow is not a dream, it is a necessity.”
He reflected on the $10,000 donation from JCA in 1981 that helped start the school.
“Mount Sinai College is a humble communal jewel delivering Jewish continuity where an initial $10,000 loan and modest investment by the community has delivered exceptional scholastic, Judaic, communal and financial returns to our community for 36 years.”
MSC president Tim Greenstein said the response from the community has been very positive.
“We have been most heartened by the Mount Sinai family, including parents and alumni, who have stretched themselves to come together and donate more than $1.5 million,” Greenstein said.
“We have also raised a significant amount of money from supporters across the community, who are not directly involved in the school, and are continuing discussions with them – we are still counting and reliant upon additional donations to meet our target.”
AJN STAFF
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