The Mesorah High School family gathered to celebrate a truly special milestone as the Class of 2026 crossed the stage at the school’s 23rd Graduation Ceremony. Parents, grandparents, faculty, friends, alumni, and community leaders joined together to honor nine remarkable young women whose years at Mesorah have prepared them to continue their journeys of Torah growth, leadership, and service.
This year’s graduation carried added significance as it followed the dedication of Mesorah’s new permanent home. Yet, as Mesorah Board President, Don Goldstein reminded those gathered, the building itself is merely a vessel.
“The building was never the destination. The students were and always will be the purpose.”
Drawing upon the lessons of Parshas Korach, Mr. Goldstein challenged the graduates to avoid the trap of comparing themselves to others and instead embrace the unique mission that Hashem has given each of them.
“Hashem does not ask us to become someone else. He asks us to become the best version of ourselves.”
That message resonated throughout the ceremony as each graduate reflected on her own journey and expressed gratitude to Hashem, parents, teachers, and friends who helped shape her growth.
Valedictorian: Sori Blitz
Sori Blitz spoke about recognizing the inherent value in every moment and every person.
Quoting the verse, “This is the day that Hashem created; let us rejoice in it,” she explained that every day, every interaction, and every person carries value simply because they come from Hashem.
“Every student in Mesorah has unique values, strengths, and talents. Mesorah does not take the easy way out. They take each student from where she comes, saying, ‘This is the person that Hashem created—let us rejoice in her.'”
Rabbi Kosowsky described Sori as passionate, creative, caring, sensitive, and inclusive. He praised her originality, confidence, and enthusiasm for learning, noting that she consistently pushes herself beyond expectations and inspires those around her.
Salutatorian: Dina Brown
Dina Brown reflected on the uncertainty and excitement of entering a new stage of life.
Drawing on the verse “Even when I walk in the valley of darkness, I will fear no evil, for You are with me,” she explained that a valley represents change and stepping into the unknown.
“The friendships we built here do not disappear just because our lives will change. The lessons we learn and the moments we share become part of who we are.”
Rabbi Kosowsky highlighted Dina’s positivity and resilience.
“She consistently helps create a positive learning environment.”
He noted that she handles challenges with grace and responsibility, and that she brings optimism wherever she goes.
Rivkie Craven
Rivkie spoke about the power of gratitude and the importance of pausing to appreciate life’s blessings.
Inspired by a Bais Yaakov convention centered on lehodos ulehalel, she described adopting the practice of reflecting daily on the good in her life.
“As I stand in the doorway of my next chapter, I’m reflecting on the past and thanking Hashem, my family, and my school for all they have done for me.”
Rabbi Kosowsky described Rivkie as deeply compassionate and caring, with a tremendous capacity for friendship. Kindness, he noted, lies at the heart of who she is.
Esmeralda Ahava Faierman
Esmeralda challenged her classmates to stop rushing through life.
“Why is it that we’re so focused on what’s coming next that we end up missing what’s happening right now?”
Reflecting on her move from Toronto to Dallas, she described how she initially focused on what she had left behind rather than appreciating what was in front of her.
“The moment I started appreciating what was here, everything changed.”
Rabbi Kosowsky praised Esmeralda’s wisdom, sincerity, and thoughtful nature. He highlighted her love of people, her personal growth, and the inspiration others derive from her sincere tefillah.
Adina Heimowitz
Adina focused on gratitude and the unique atmosphere of Mesorah.
“The defining characteristic of Mesorah is its ability to foster an environment that has a true sense of warmth, achdus, and family.”
As one of the GO Presidents, she witnessed firsthand how deeply Mesorah invests in every student.
“Whether in seminary, our communities, or our future homes, we each have the ability to create the same kind of atmosphere that Mesorah created for us.”
Rabbi Kosowsky described Adina as a growth-minded natural leader with contagious joy, intellectual curiosity, and a sincere desire to continue learning and growing.
Kesser Shem Tov Award Recipient: Shira Levy
Recipient of the Kesser Shem Tov Award, Shira Levy reflected on the lasting impact Mesorah had on her relationship with Torah.
“Mesorah is not just a place where I created memories for a lifetime; Mesorah imbued me with a love of learning.”
She spoke about the school’s individualized approach and the atmosphere of respect that encouraged every student to grow.
“Torah is not just a subject. It is a way of life.”
Rabbi Kosowsky praised Shira as a compassionate and caring young woman with a remarkable capacity for friendship, qualities that beautifully embody the spirit of the Kesser Shem Tov Award.
Talia Leah Shimon
Talia Leah shared a powerful lesson about emunah and trusting Hashem’s plan.
“It’s recognizing Hashem not only when things are good and easy, but even when things are hard or unclear.”
Recalling a disappointment that later led to a better opportunity, she reflected:
“That closed door was actually guidance.”
Rabbi Kosowsky praised Talia Leah’s maturity, determination, and resilience. He noted her vibrant passion, clarity of purpose, and ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
Elisheva Sutkin
Elisheva spoke about the gradual process through which Mesorah transformed her.
“The girl who walked into school on the first day is completely different from the girl leaving on the last.”
She explained that growth did not come through one dramatic moment, but through years of learning, friendships, mentorship, and countless experiences.
“It is such a bracha to have been a part of this school and community and it will forever influence me.”
Rabbi Kosowsky described Elisheva as caring, enthusiastic, and committed to understanding Hashem’s role in her life. He praised her positivity and continual striving for spiritual growth.
Shira Wiener
Shira Wiener reflected on a teaching from Pirkei Avos:
“Aseh lecha rav, u’knei lecha chaver—Make for yourself a teacher, and acquire for yourself a friend.”
Over the years at Mesorah, she came to understand that the school’s teachers and administrators were both mentors and friends, guiding students while also serving as a support system and a listening ear.
“What makes Mesorah so special is that these two ideas go together, becoming one and the same.”
Rabbi Kosowsky described Shira as thoughtful, positive, and growth-oriented. He praised her commitment to understanding Torah deeply and applying its lessons to everyday life.
A Class Defined by Character
One of the blessings of a graduating class of nine students, Mr. Don Goldstein noted, is the opportunity to truly know each student as an individual. Though each graduate possesses unique strengths and talents, together they represent something extraordinary.
“Greatness comes in many forms. Some inspire through scholarship, some through friendship, some through creativity, and some through service.”
The Class of 2026 leaves Mesorah grounded in Torah, strengthened by meaningful relationships, and prepared to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Their speeches reflected gratitude, faith, perseverance, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the Mesorah family that helped shape them.
May they continue to grow in Torah, wisdom, and character, bringing light, leadership, and inspiration to their families, communities, and all of Klal Yisrael.
Mazel Tov to the Mesorah High School Class of 2026!
