Annual Benefit Honoree

The Amos and Celia Heilicher Minneapolis Jewish Day School proudly announces Audrey Goldfarb as the honoree for the Heilicher Annual Benefit, to be held on Sunday, November 17, 2024. As we mark our 40th year, Audrey stands as a beacon of dedication and leadership, having served as head of school at Heilicher from 1995 to 1999.

Audrey Goldfarb is not only a revered figure within the Heilicher community but also a cherished volunteer in the broader Jewish community. Her devotion extends to Beth El Synagogue, the Minnesota JCC Sabes Center, and the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.

Audrey’s husband for 63 years was Dr. Mace Goldfarb (z’’l), whose pediatric practice evolved into Children’s Hospital network. Audrey and Mace’s four children are Lynn Lederman (Ken Raskin), Alan Goldfarb (Nancy Joseph), Pam Goldfarb Liss (Glen Liss), and Betsy Birnberg (Barry Birnberg). Nine of Audrey’s ten grandchildren attended Heilicher, and she has one great-granddaughter.

During Audrey’s outstanding tenure, the school expanded from 60 to 250 students and was honored with the National School of Excellence award. Recognizing the significance of collaboration, Audrey emphasized the importance of honoring the dedicated staff and the visionary board who navigated the school through its formative years.

Statement from Audrey, on accepting the honor:

I am humbled to serve as the 2024 Heilicher Annual Benefit honoree. 

I believe every child has potential. I also believe it takes a community to educate. When I joined Heilicher, I found such a community. Together, the faculty and parents wrestled with the challenge of providing a strong curriculum that integrates secular and Jewish education. How do we build a community that respects diverse Jewish practice? How do we educate children who will become caring and philanthropic adults? How do we prepare our children to become Jewish community leaders?

As we celebrate 40 years of Heilicher, the wrestling continues. These questions are still relevant. Heilicher continues to value each child, and continues as a strong community.

Join us as we honor Audrey Goldfarb, commemorate 40 years of Heilicher, and celebrate the enduring strength of our community. Explore the sponsorship opportunities available now, and save the date — November 17!

Tickets will be available in the fall. Contact Development Director Kiel Majewski at kmajewski@hmjds.org or 952.381.3503 for more information.