Emmy Roday with Foundation President Aaron Seligson

WOODBRIDGE – Emmy Roday, of Orange and Joni Weintraub, of Woodbridge, both ninth graders at Ezra Academy in Woodbridge, recently were selected as finalists in the prestigious annual Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation Essay Contest.
The students’ essays were among five essays selected from among more than 550 entries submitted in the seventh, eighth and ninth grade category. The five finalists were honored at a June luncheon at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City’s Battery Park.
This year’s essay topic was: “Honoring Thy Father and Mother: How and Why.” Through the essay contest, the Foundation seeks to encourage young people to treasure their Jewish heritage, reflect on Jewish values, and better understand Judaism’s contribution to civilization and culture. Entries come from throughout the United States, Canada, and other countries, including India and Turkey.

Joni Weintraubwith Foundation President Aaron Seligson

“The essay contest encourages participants to think about their values, formulate their ideas and articulate them in their essays,” said Aaron Seligson, president of the Kaplun Foundation. “Morris J. Kaplun, our founder, would be very pleased that he has been able to inspire so many young people from all over the world.”
Established in 1955, the Foundation also awards grants to a wide variety of educational, scientific and charitable institutions.
For more information about the Foundation and next year’s essay contest, visit: www.kaplunfoundation.org/.