Brender Moss Building Dedication

Last Sunday, the Emanuel School Foundation welcomed donors, families, students and staff to a special mezuzah and classroom dedication ceremony, celebrating the completion of the first stage of the Brender Moss refurbishment, and recognising the extraordinary generosity of the Emanuel community.

More than 300 families contributed to the Brender Moss Project, helping transform one of the School's most iconic buildings into contemporary, flexible learning spaces that will serve generations of students.

The afternoon brought together parents, grandparents and children to celebrate not only beautifully refurbished classrooms, but the shared belief that philanthropy plays a vital role in strengthening Jewish education.

Foundation CEO Lisa Pillemer thanked the community for partnering with the School to create opportunities that extend well beyond bricks and mortar.

"The Emanuel School Foundation exists to bring together a community of supporters who help strengthen the School through philanthropy, connection and shared purpose," she said.

"Together we help ensure that Emanuel remains a place of excellence and belonging, grounded proudly in Jewish values."

The Foundation recognised the leadership of the Brender and Moss families as Visionary Sponsors of the project, together with Leadership Sponsors Leia and Jonathan Lewis, and Stephen and Janine Silver, whose generosity helped make the refurbishment possible.

Guests also heard how donor support continues to enrich student life across the School, including the Writer and Composer in Residence programs, bursaries, and immersive Jewish educational experiences.

One of the most moving moments of the afternoon centred on the dedication of 15 bespoke mezuzot, commissioned especially for the refurbished classrooms.

Created by Emanuel parent and artist Ruth Shteinman, each mezuzah is unique. Following the tragic events at Bondi on 14 December, Ruth chose to dedicate each mezuzah to one of the victims of the attack. Their names are inscribed on the reverse of each piece, creating a lasting tribute that connects memory, resilience and hope.

"It felt like absolute beshert," said Lisa, reflecting on discovering Ruth's work while searching online for an artist to create the mezuzot, only to discover she was already part of the Emanuel community.

The ceremony concluded with classroom dedications and the affixing of the mezuzot, led by Director of Jewish Life, Rabba Adina Roth.

The afternoon was a powerful reminder that philanthropy is about far more than buildings. It is about investing in people, preserving memory, strengthening Jewish identity and creating spaces where future generations can flourish.