HONORING
ROBERTA WEINMAN OB”M
AND THE IMPACT OF THEWEINMAN JEWISH ACADEMY
The Gala pays tribute to the profound impact of the Weinman Jewish Academy and the enduring legacy of Roberta Lynne Weinman OBM, רבקה לאה בת מלך הלוי ע״ה .
Roberta lived her entire adult life selflessly and generously, always placing the well-being of others before her own. Despite a difficult childhood, she chose to build a life centered on giving— by offering love, care, and goodness to everyone she encountered. Roberta’s entire adult life was devoted to cultivating deep human connections through emotional intimacy, always valuing quality over quantity in all of her relationships. She had a heart of gold and embodied what it meant to be a true giver, never expecting anything in return.
Whether with her husband, Victor, her children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, or even someone she had just met, Roberta had an extraordinary ability to form immediate, sincere, and meaningful bonds. Her attentiveness, warmth, and heartfelt words made every person she met feel valued and understood.
Established through the generosity and vision of the Weinman family, the Weinman Jewish Academy carries forward Roberta’s legacy of intimate human connection infused with Godliness, fostering strong bonds—both human and Divine—through lifelong Jewish learning.
Today, the Academy has become a cornerstone of Chabad of New Canaan. It has inspired personal growth, strengthened Jewish identity, and cultivated a vibrant community of lifelong Torah learners. Students join from across Westchester and Fairfield counties, with many participating virtually from throughout the United States.
We honor the memory of Roberta with every class given and every person in attendance.
Tehey Nafshah Tzerurah B’tzror Hachayim.
May her soul be bound in the bonds of life.
YOUNG LEADERSHIP AWARD:
YAN & DR. VALERIE KLATS
This year’s Young Leadership Award recognizes Yan and Dr. Valerie Klats for their outstanding dedication to Jewish life, community involvement, and support for Israel—qualities that define the next generation of leaders.
Yan has long been active in RAJE (Russian American Jewish Experience) and Hillel at Baruch College, contributing to Jewish engagement and community-building. Dr. Valerie Klats, known for her compassion and commitment to her patients, brings that same care and devotion to her family and community. Together, Yan and Valerie have played a meaningful role in the growth of a young and vibrant generation of Jewish families in New Canaan, inspiring others through their warmth, kindness, and dedication to Judaism.
TEEN VOLUNTEER AWARD:
ARIA BABAYEV
The Teen Volunteer Award honors Aria Babayev, a devoted graduate of the New Canaan Hebrew School who continues to volunteer weekly, assisting with classes and programs. Now a sophomore at New Canaan High School, Aria is known for her enthusiasm, reliability, and strong sense of responsibility.
Her leadership and commitment make her a role model for her peers and an inspiration to the entire community.
