The Portland Jewish Academy’s 50th Anniversary auction raised about $400,000 for the school. Auction Co-Chairs were Barb Anderman, Sandy Nemer, and Amara Norman. The event also offered an opportunity to honor the Zidell family for its enduring support of the school. The aution took place on December 11th.
Min Zidell for whom the main PJA building is named.
Jay Zidell, Diane Zidell, and Stan Rosenfeld
Marc Blattner, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland of which Portland Jewish Academy is a constituent agency.
Walt and Pam Pellett, owners of City Liquidators and friends of PJA.
From the Portland Jewish Academy:
Our auction is PJA’s most important fundraiser, because it benefits our scholarship fund and provides essential operating support. Over half of PJA students receive some scholarship support, which reflects our diverse student body. Demand for financial assistance continues to increase, in response to today’s economic climate. Your support will ensure the continued growth and success of PJA and the education of our children in the Middot (fundamental values) we hold dear – study, appreciation, respect, responsibility, community and Jewish identity.
Through your continued support, PJA has educated hundreds of capable and confident students who have strong values. Our alumni are leaders, deep thinkers, active community members and achievers.
Founded in 1961 as Hillel Academy, the first class had 26 students in grades 3-6. Now, 50 years later, we have over 325 children enrolled in our infant toddler program, preschool, lower school and middle school. As we educate more of our community’s children, the auction’s impact becomes even greater.
