THE RAOUL WALLENBERG COMMITTEE OF THE UNITED STATES

A study of heroes

Volume 2, Issue 1: # 2 Special Edition: 2011 - 2014

Challenges: CELEBRATION, commemoration & Change The Raoul Wallenberg Committee “We are small but mighty ” is economic uncertainty, mirroring of the United States an apt descriptor of the Raoul that confronting organizations

Wallenberg Committee of the nationwide. The Committee’s

United States. very existence was in peril.

These five words, coined by The necessities and rigors of relo-

President Diane Blake, capture cating our offices in 2011 and Chairman the Committee’s spirited thirty again in 2013 compounded the Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim

- two year history. Yet, never other challenges we faced. Vice Chairmen did they ring more true than Joel I. Berson, Esq. Characteristically, the Committee 37 West 26th Street, Manhattan when overcoming the chal- President responded with spirited determi- move to The Center for Jewish Diane Blake lenges faced during the past nation setting a new goal of re- History in Manhattan in 2011. Secretary & Treasurer three years. Jeffrey J. Lewis newal and revitalization. Two years later, in 2013, circum- Directors Celebration & Commemora- Cynthia Green Colin, New York Change: Under the keen leader- stances changed — so did our tion: The Committee, poised Hon. David E. R. Dangoor, New York ship of Chairman Rachel Oestrei- location — to 37 West 26th Noah D. Genel, Esq., New York to celebrate its 30th Anniver- Bonnie Kaye, New York cher Bernheim, President Blake, Street in the heart of New York’s Flora Major, Florida sary in 2011 and the Centen- Dr. Patricia A. McFate, New Mexico the Board of Directors, and the historic Chelsea/Flatiron District. Carl Nisser, Esq., London ary of Raoul Wallenberg’s Robert F. Smith, M.D., Missouri dedicated Staff, the Committee birth in 2012, encountered Third, the Committee’s dedicated • Chairmen Emeriti maintained its Mission (see page Alan C. Greenberg Board welcomed new Directors: Lena Biorck Kaplan 2 ) while adjusting course and Alex Rosenberg Bonnie Kaye and Noah D. Genel, Jack Gumpert Wasserman changing locations. Esq. Cynthia Green Colin, Flora • Honorary Chairmen First, the Committee regained Ambassador Per Anger* Major, and Hon. David Dangoor, Dr. Guy von Dardel* independence in 2011 by ending Nina Lagergren returned to The Board. Dr. Krister Stendahl* an affiliation with another not-for Jacob Wallenberg* Fourth, essential lifelines of sup- Simon Wiesenthal* January 17, 2014: The 69th Anniversary of -profit organization. port have been cast to the Com- • Director of Education the last day Raoul Wallenberg was seen as Dr. Kathleen Dunlevy Morin a free man; he had been arrested by Soviet Second, The Honorable David mittee by The Fridolin Founda-

troops. The Committee placed flowers at the Dangoor, Swedish Honorary tion, The Bernheim Foundation * Deceased Raoul Wallenberg Monument (First Ave. by Consul General to New York, the United Nations). The bronze attaché and, of course, the ongoing gen- case symbolically awaits Raoul’s return. arranged for the Committee to erosity of Members and Friends.

centenary of raoul Wallenberg’s birth Cuny Lecture: Passionate & Powerful

BERNHEIM & BLAKE from the Martin E. and number The Event —- A Lec- - Share Wallenberg Story - Segal Theatre at of individuals ture Series spon- - Update Research Findings - The City University lingering to sored by The Rosen- of New York’s speak with thal Institute for “ Riveting “ ….. “Essential “ (CUNY) Graduate the featured Holocaust Studies at ….“Compelling “ …. Center in midtown lecturers were CUNY. Manhattan on the clear indica- The Lecture —- “The Such comments were over- evening of October tors of the Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim (l) and Centenary of a heard as members of the audi- Raoul and his 10, 2012. The success of the Diane Blake (r) join Marianne Balshone ence departed reluctantly Mother, Maj von (c) who was saved by Raoul Wallen- Hero”. Dardel, 1916 pace of departure event. berg in WW II Budapest ( Continued on page 3 ) P AGE 2 A STUDY OF HEROES

From The Chairman’s Desk ... How do you was declared the Raoul Wallenberg Cen- Regardless of demograph- measure tenary. At last, the world is taking notice. ics, educators, counselors, success? librarians, social workers, In 1990, the Committee assessed how to After 32 years, parents and students credit honor Raoul Wallenberg. A STUDY OF we are asking the HEROES with developing HEROES is our living monument to Raoul same question. academic skills; building good character; Wallenberg. It was developed to pass We look back counteracting patterns of violence; and forward the character traits and values of with astonish- helping to restore hope. this most heroic of men. It is based on ment, with very our belief...that the heroes of a nation So, “How do we measure success? “ limited financial reflect the values of its people. Today, resources, a small Not by our bottom line, but by the extraor- HEROES is recognized as an exemplary dedicated staff, dinary number of lives we have touched, character education, social studies, and Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim and a supportive and by the positive difference we have literacy program. It has reached well Board of Direc- made and are continuing to make! There over two million students in a multiplicity tors--we have accomplished Herculean are growing numbers of people of every of educational settings (K –12 and tasks. We raised the consciousness of the age whose lives have been changed by Adults) that include schools both nation- general public and both American and Raoul Wallenberg. wide and abroad. The positive measur- Swedish government officials to the point able results achieved in schools have where the case of Raoul Wallenberg been equally matched by the use of HE- could no longer be ignored. Sweden has ROES in adult and juvenile correctional finally started to pay full tribute to its facilities. most heroic native son. The year 2012

About The Raoul Wallenberg Committee

The Raoul Wallenberg Committee of the ( By a Joint Act of Congress in 1981, Award on individuals, organizations, and United States was created as a not-for- Wallenberg was made the Third Honor- communities reflecting the values, spirit profit corporation in 1981. Its mission is: ary Citizen of the United States. ) and courage of Raoul Wallenberg.

For more information, please visit: To perpetuate, through A STUDY OF To seek the truth surrounding the HEROES, the humanitarian ideals and mystery of the fate of Raoul Wallen- http://www.raoulwallenberg.org nonviolent courage of Raoul Wallen- berg through THE NO STONE UN- berg, a 31 year-old Christian Swede, TURNED (STONES) Program; Or contact us at: who at the behest of the United States

government at the end of World War II To maintain archives and to provide The Raoul Wallenberg Committee went to Budapest, Hungary and with- information and expert services to out resorting to violence saved from the of the United States researchers, the media, individuals, 37 West 26th Street, Suite 403 Nazis more than 100,000 Jews in six organizations, and governments in- months time. For still unknown reasons, New York, New York 10010 quiring about the story of Raoul (646) 678 – 3711 Wallenberg was arrested by the Soviets Wallenberg; and in 1945; was imprisoned and thrown or into The Gulag; and has never been To bestow The Raoul Wallenberg [email protected] seen as a free man again. Mark your Calendar

April 6, 2011 U.S. State Department honors August 4, 2012 100th Anniversary of W. Kelly, New York City Police Commissioner Raoul Wallenberg as A Person of Courage. Raoul Wallenberg’s Birthday. with The Raoul Wallenberg Civic Courage Award. May 2, 2011 President Diane Blake accepts August 29, 2012 Rachel Oestreicher the Legacy of Courage Award, honoring Bernheim, Chairman, speaks at Carol January 17, 2013 The Raoul Wallenberg Com- Raoul Wallenberg, from Emunah of America Woods Residents’ Association in Chapel mittee holds a Young Professionals Reception and Jossi Berger Holocaust Study Center. Hill, North Carolina. at The Fedida Gallery, NYC. August 2011 The Raoul Wallenberg Com- October 10, 2012 President Diane Blake September 2013 mittee of the United States relocates to The and Chairman Rachel Oestreicher Bern- The Raoul Wallenberg Center for Jewish History. heim speak on The Centenary of a Hero at Committee relocates to 37 The Rosenthal Institute for Holocaust Stud- West 26th Street, NYC. April 2012 Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim ies at CUNY in Manhattan. addresses Park East Synagogue and Congre- January 17, 2014 gation Ohab Zedek, in Manhattan, at Holo- November 7, 2012 A Gala at The Yale The 69th Anniversary of caust Commemoration Ceremonies. Club of New York City Honoring Raymond last day that Raoul Wallen- berg was seen a free man. A STUDY OF HEROES P AGE 3

… Cuny lecture: passionate & Powerful

(Continued from page 1) focused upon Picking up the Wallenberg story where the period prior Rachel left off, Diane chronicled, with de- The Hero —- Raoul Wallenberg, born one to and during tailed research, the period following hundred years ago on August 4, 1912, in July 1944 to Raoul’s capture by the Soviet troops on Sweden. January 1945 in January 17, 1945. Through research and The Guest Lecturers —- Rachel Oestreicher which Wallen- personal anecdotes, Diane painted a com- Bernheim and Diane Blake, Chairman and berg worked in pelling yet frustrating picture of the efforts President, respectively, of The Raoul the Swedish to free Wallenberg — one that for sixty- Wallenberg Committee of the United Legation in Bu- seven years has been fraught with com- At CUNY’s midtown Graduate Center, dapest. It was bined good intentions, perseverance, and States. Charles and Rachel Bernheim flank Professor Randolph L. Braham during this time dedication; diplomatic and investigative Professor Randolph L. Braham of The that Wallenberg steps and missteps; hints and hopes; lies, Rosenthal Institute for Holocaust Studies at is credited with saving more than 100,000 misrepresentations and, all too often, dead- CUNY coordinated the Institute’s Fall Pro- Jews from certain death at the hands of the ends and disregard. gram for the 2012 Lecture Series. This Nazis. Raoul never resorted to violence. Series is offered in cooperation with the President Blake, who Center for Jewish Studies and Continuing Following Professor Braham, Rachel Bern- directs the No Stone Education & Public Programs at CUNY. heim spoke eloquently of Wallenberg’s in- Unturned (STONES) nate compassion, conviction, and heroic Program at The Raoul Dr. Marta Bladek, a Professor and Research character. She wove spellbinding stories Wallenberg Committee Librarian at John Jay College, warmly wel- about Raoul’s transformative life experiences of the United States, comed the audience preparing and motivating him to make a continues in her search and introduced Pro- difference in the lives of others. Such grip- for the Truth about the fessor Braham, a re- ping stories were often rooted in firsthand fate of Raoul Wallen- nowned scholar and accounts shared personally with Rachel by berg and in her com- authority on The those whose lives had beem saved by Diane Blake (top) and (l to r) mitment to ensure that Hungarian Holo- Wallenberg. The audience was visibly her daughter Peggy Blake; he is ultimately caust. Professor mother Betty Werfel; and sister moved. Some were Holocaust survivors. Oth- Lauren Kolins share a moment. brought home to Swe- Braham provided an ers had friends and relatives saved by den and to his Family. historical overview of Wallenberg. Still others came to learn more Rachel Oestreicher Bern- the state of affairs in The evening concluded with a vigorous Q heim and Rivka Goli of the about Wallenberg or to become acquainted Nazi-occupied, World & A session followed by a resounding United Nations at CUNY with him for the first time. War II Hungary. He standing ovation for Rachel and Diane.

From the President’s Desk ...

by that the Russian archives still contain critically The Raoul Wallenberg Committee of the Diane Blake, United States is committed to seeing this President & Director of Research important documents about the Wallenberg happen. case. * * * * * * This is the year of Raoul Wallenberg’s What is needed now is a high level request This past April, Diane celebrated her 26th 102nd birthday. He is an honorary citizen from the Swedish government for the truth. Anniversary with The Raoul Wallenberg of four countries. There have been stamps A little help from the United States govern- Committee of the United States. Today, she issued in his honor; schools, parks, and ment wouldn’t hurt either. The time of is the Committee’s streets named for him; statues and monu- doubt as to whether the materials still exist President and is a ments erected; and even an orchid created and whether the Raoul Wallenberg case can renowned au- in his name. Sweden designated 2012 as be solved is past. This new information thority on Raoul the official “Raoul Wallenberg Year”. Yet, wipes away all doubts. Wallenberg. At Raoul Wallenberg deserves more than hon- first, she served as ors. He deserves the truth of his fate to a volunteer and finally be made public, and he deserves to Raoul Wallenberg was Prisoner #7 …. subsequently on come home. “The archivists added that ‘Prisoner No. 7’ had been interrogated on July 23rd, 1947 which—if the Board of Direc- In the past several years, new information confirmed— would mean that the Soviet era claims tors and as the has been found which shows that Raoul of Wallenberg’s death on July 17, 1947 are no Director of Re- Wallenberg was called in for interrogation longer valid. Never before have Russian officials search and the No Diane Blake on July 23, 1947 — six days after his sup- stated the possibility of Raoul Wallenberg’s Stone Unturned posed death date. Also found is new mate- survival past this date so explicitly.” (STONES) Program, dedicated to finding rial from Willy Roedel, Raoul’s cellmate in Source: Searching for Raoul Wallenberg the Truth of Wallenberg’s Fate. Lubianka Prison. The Russians have Susan Berger, Researcher Please follow Diane’s Chronology for re- claimed for years that this information no Posted by Diane Blake on search updates on our web site at: longer existed. This is the clearest sign yet www.raoulwallenberg.org/newsroom http://www.raoulwallenberg.org P AGE 4 A STUDY OF HEROES

Margit Demeny: A Life touched by wallenberg

“Each human being is special, but Margit her Father’s death in 1923, of Nazi-occupied Hungary Kelemen Demeny was more actively special moved with her Mother and by moving into a Wallen- than most …” Sister to Budapest. There, berg Safe House in 1944. — August 4, 2013, Manhattan; Eulogy for Dr. she excelled in both athlet- Demeny, a long-time friend of the Raoul ics and academics. Margit remarried in 1947 Wallenberg Committee of the United States. and settled in New York By fate, Margit was laid to rest on the 101st Only illness prevented her working as a researcher anniversary of Raoul Wallenberg’s birth. from accepting an invitation and faculty member at to join Hungary’s National Mt. Sinai Hospital and Margit inspired all whom she met — speaking Gymnastics Team. Having NYU Medical Center, Dr. Margit Demeny (right) and her daughter Dr. Marian at schools; educating groups about the Holo- earned her PhD in Physical Demeny (left), on the occasion of the Presentation of retiring in I982. Margit caust; sharing wisdom and the Wallenberg Chemistry in 1943, Margit The Royal Swedish Order of The Polar Star to continued to devote her Story with students, researchers, and writers. married in 1944. Within a Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim tireless and selfless energy year, Margit’s husband was killed on a to her loving Family. Born in Baja, Hungary, in 1914, Margit, after death march. Margit survived the horrors She is very much missed.

Holocaust Commemoration Park east synagogue & Congregation Ohab Zedek

Remembrance across Manhattan … Wednes- In the Synagogue, 19th Annual Holocaust Commemoration day, April 18, 2012 … from the East Side to Rabbi Arthur Schneier Ceremony co-sponsored by Emunah of the West Side, Holocaust Commemoration presented dignitaries, America and Congregation Ohab Zedek. Ceremonies honored the Centenary of Raoul the Park East Day The Ceremony featured Rachel’s inspiring Wallenberg’s birth. School Choir, and Muzi- Wallenberg story; the premier of The Raoul kas, a lively and colorful In two synagogues across town from each Wallenberg Song composed by Cecelia band of Hungarian other, Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim, Chair of Margules; and a magnificent “blend” of live Minstrels. the Raoul Wallenberg music with “Rainbow Committee (RWCUS) of The Hon. David Dan- Rachel Oestreicher In The Night”, a pow- Bernheim shares the the United States goor introduced Rachel, Wallenberg story at Park erful video epic of shared the Wallenberg whose story of Wallen- East Synagogue. WW II Krakow and story with those gath- berg evoked memories one survivor’s story. ered for Yom HaShoah. and tears amidst silence. A Candle Light- The title song was ing Ceremony and prayer followed. composed by Mar- Park East Synagogue : gules and the video At the elegant Park Congregation Ohab Zedek: Traveling was directed by East Synagogue on the promptly to the Upper West Side, Rachel Daniel Finkelman. Hon. David Dangoor, Honor- Upper East Side, those joined Congregation Ohab Zedek and Candle Lighting and ary Consul General of Sweden arriving early perused Rabbi Allen Schwartz in the small, beauti- prayer, led by Rabbi Cecelia Margules engages and Member of RWCUS a multi- paneled ful, and warmly welcoming synagogue. Board of Directors addresses Avraham Farber, Congregation Ohab Zedek Wallenberg exhibit on Cecelia Margules, Co-Chair of The Jossi with musical Park East Synagogue closed the evening’s congregants. loan from RWCUS. Berger Holocaust Study Center hosted its accompaniment. Ceremony.

Diane Blake accepts Emunah Of America Award Honoring Wallenberg’s ‘Legacy of Courage’

Torrential rains fell hard upon the those exit- and Jossi Berger Holocaust Study Center composed by Cecelia Margules and per- ing the New York University Kimmel Center together with NYU’s Bronfman Center for formed by her son Adam. The program on the night of May 2, 2011. Inside, the Jewish Life. was powerful and personally touched all warmth of community had enveloped the who attended. The evening’s theme was Legacy of Cour- young and old who had gathered for The age: A Tribute to Survivors and Saviors. 18th Annual Holocaust Commemoration Cecelia Margules, Chairman of The Jossi Ceremony sponsored by Emunah of America Berger Holocaust Study Center, presented the Award honoring Raoul Wallenberg. “His Courage, Compassion and Conviction Representing the Raoul Wallenberg Com- During History’s Darkest Hour Serves As mittee of the United States, Diane Blake An Example And Inspiration accepted the Award on behalf of Wallen- To All Mankind” berg. Inscription The program concluded with A Candle Holding Legacy of Courage Awards: Diane Blake with Emunah of America Legacy of Courage Award Honorees, Ray Kaner (l), a Polish Survivor of Auschwitz and Honoring Raoul Wallenberg Lighting Ceremony and original music Bergen Belsen; and Renee Wiener (r), a Member of the French Resistance Movement. A STUDY OF HEROES P AGE 5

Front page news: United states department of state Honors Raoul Wallenberg:

“We salute the courage and dedication of The ‘Person of Courage’ Tribute was State Hillary Rodham presented in Washington, DC on April Clinton cited the noble all those whose moral compasses did not 6th, 2011 at an event commemorating actions of Wallenberg fail them but instead compelled them …. “ the 60th Anniversary of the 1951 Refu- and five other heroic gee Convention, an international agree- individuals: Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State ment defining the legal obligations of “All of these courageous nations to protect refugees. people have one thing in A framed certificate from the United States When presenting the award, Secretary of common: They did not Department of State paying tribute to Raoul view people as strangers Wallenberg as A Person of Courage is — as ‘the other’; they proudly displayed at the Raoul Wallenberg viewed them as fellow Committee’s new office. This award honors human beings, and they were unable to stand by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton the humanitarian values and heroic cour- and let brutality and vio- presents Person Of Courage age of Wallenberg. lence and atrocities unfold Awards in Washington, D.C. — US Dept. of State Photo The certificate reminds all of Raoul’s com- … We salute the courage and dedication of all those mitment to act on principle in times of crisis whose moral compasses did not fail them but and of the Committee’s dedication, through instead compelled them … to help in the vital en- its NO STONE UNTURNED and HEROES deavor of standing up for the very best values that Programs, to keep Raoul’s legacy alive as an unite all of us regardless of geography, race, tribe inspiration for generations to come. or religion.”

Bulletin:

A tribute to rachel oestreicher Bernheim: A Continuum of service & commitment

For more than three decades, Rachel facilities, schools and conferences. Glimmerglass Op- Oestreicher Bernheim has been in the era Company of A graduate of Sarah Lawrence College, Ra- vanguard of preserving and promoting Cooperstown, New chel studied developmental child psychology the legacy of Raoul Wallenberg. Her life York. Rachel served and had the privilege of studying the myths has been one of service and commitment. on the Board of of the hero with Professor Joseph Campbell. Congratulations and Thank You, Rachel. The American Sym- She authored the monograph Raoul Wallen- phony Orchestra; Since the Committee’s inception in 1981, berg: A Hero For Our Time plus numerous on the Auction Rachel’s creative vision has been key to articles for publications in America and Committee of the Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim, Salem shaping the organization’s future. Today, abroad. She has served as a consultant on Academy’s 2011 Distinguished Young Adults Insti- as for more than a decade, she serves as its books, films and documentaries about the Alumni Award recipient with its tute; as Co- Chairman. Rachel conceptualized and co- life of Raoul Wallenberg. Rachel is listed in President, Dr. Susan E. Pauly, and Chairman of the Head of School. Karl Sjolund, Photo developed A STUDY OF HEROES and has The Foremost Women in the Twentieth Cen- Nominating Com- credit: Snyder Photography been instrumental, along with President tury and Who’s Who of American Women. mittee of the Sarah Diane Blake, in the search for the Truth Rachel is the recipient of Salem Academy’s Lawrence College Alumnae Board; and about the fate of Raoul Wallenberg. 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award. She has on the Board of the New York Heart Asso- served on the Boards of Salon de Virtuosi Both Rachel and Diane are ciation. Rachel received The New Sweden and Givat Haviva Educational Institute. She recognized as international ’88 Medal from the Swedish Consul Gen- was a member of The National Council of the experts on Wallenberg. eral to New York. Over the years, Rachel has “To receive this order, there is a strict rule: On March 13, 2007, Rachel Oestreicher shared her expertise in set- You must have accomplished things beyond Bernheim, by appointment of His Majesty tings as diverse as the the call of duty. And that is a fitting King Carl XVI Gustaf, was awarded The United States Congress, US description of your efforts on establishing the Royal Swedish Order of the Polar Star at military bases, The United Raoul Wallenberg legacy.” the Level of Commander. Ambassador Ulf Nations, centers of worship, Ambassador Ulf Hjertonsson Consul General of Sweden Hjertonsson, Consul General of Sweden, Rachel wearing the universities, civic organiza- upon awarding Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim presented this honor and its Medal to Ra- Medal of The Royal tions, senior centers, televi- The Royal Swedish Order of the Polar Star Swedish Order of the by appointment of His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf chel at the Consular Residence in Manhat- sion, radio, correctional New York City, April 2007 Polar Star. tan. P AGE 6 A STUDY OF HEROES

Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim Addresses north carolinians

It is a mere hop, skip, and long jump from Perhaps, no one was more personally Salisbury, North Carolina north to Chapel touched by hearing Rachel share the Hill. For Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim, a Wallenberg story than Amie Modigh, who native of Salisbury, being invited to speak had met Raoul in Sweden when she was about Raoul Wallenberg at the Carol eleven years old. During a quiet moment, Woods Residents’ Association in Chapel Hill she delighted in sharing her recollections on the afternoon of August 29, 2012 was a with Rachel. most welcome opportunity. This invitation was extended by hosts Dr. Raoul was: nation of A STUDY OF HEROES, Jean Jean and Foster Owen, old friends from “A good dancer …. played a central and invaluable role: first Salisbury and now residents of the Carol Great conversationalist …. as the Principal of a HEROES pilot school Woods Retirement Community. For years, Highly intelligent … ” and subsequently in her executive role at Jean had Amie Modigh The Southern Association of Colleges and served on Schools. the Board Such anecdotes, as the one offered by Amie, of Direc- A large group gathered in the Carol richly and charmingly provide a ‘snapshot in tors of the Woods Association Assembly Hall to hear time’. They enhance the historical record R a o u l the Raoul Wallenberg story. As with while offering insights about Raoul’s engag- Wallen- most audiences, there were some atten- ing character and personality as seen berg Com- dees familiar with the Wallenberg story, through the eyes of a young girl. mittee of but most were not.

the United States. “… this presentation …. was fascinating. I Left to righti: Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim, Today, she knew about Raoul Wallenberg … but many in Jean and Foster Owen share ideas with a guest. remains on the audience had never heard of him. So it its Advisory was especially good to have Rachel come to Board and, as always, is willing to share her talk about him. The larger concept — of administrative and educational expertise helping others —- was also appropriately with the Committee. stressed; we cannot hear that enough.” Amie Modigh recalls Throughout the development and dissemi- Raoul Wallenberg with Rachel Judith, An Attendee Oestreicher Bernheim

Heroes author Serves Columbia University’s teachers college alumni council

Tempus fugit … again, of course. After six riculum Consultant to TC’s project Teach- urban, inner-city, suburban, years of service, Dr. Kathleen Morin com- ing The Levees for Spike Lee’s HBO docu- and rural settings) in North pleted her second term as a Member of mentary When The Levees Broke: A Req- Carolina and the New York Columbia University’s Teachers College uiem In Four Acts. Metropolitan Area. TC Alumni Council Mem- Alumni Council in 2012. She served on its Kathy, who taught in settings ranging The Result: A STUDY OF HE- bers Kathy Morin and Dr. Executive Committee and as Co-Chair of its Tara Niraula from Nepal from Appalachia to Spanish Harlem, first ROES (K–12, and Adults) Programs & Resources Committee. came to the Committee when Rachel which today has reached Kathy has been associated with The Raoul Oestreicher Bernheim contacted TC’s Presi- 2,000,000 students nationally and interna- Wallenberg Committee since 1990, first pro dent’s Office and Curriculum Department tionally in such diverse venues as: schools, bono, then as a Consultant and for the past seeking someone with whom she could libraries, community-based organizations; fifteen years as its Director of Education. work in developing an educational pro- gifted, special education, ESL, foster-care, Prior, she earned a doctorate and two mas- gram that she had conceptualized. Ra- home-schooling, after-school, and adult ters from Teachers College and served as an chel’s idea was to create an interdiscipli- education programs; a residential school for Instructor; Associate Director of the Preser- nary curriculum as a living monument to the profoundly deaf; The Boys & Girls Clubs vice Program; Honorary Assistant Professor; the humanitarian values and nonviolent of Greater Washington; rehabilitative and and Research Associate In the Institute of heroism of Raoul Wallenberg. preventative programs for juvenile offend- Philosophy and Politics. In 2005, she re- ers and at-risk populations; and in adult In the 1990s, Rachel and Kathy collabo- ceived the Teachers College Distinguished prisons and correctional facilities for charac- rated with a network of pilot schools Alumni Award. In 2008, Kathy was the Cur- ter education and GED preparation. (public, independent, and faith-based in A STUDY OF HEROES P AGE 7

Photo gallery

First Row: (left to right): Nane (Niece of Raoul Wallenberg) and Kofi Annan (2001 Gala); Alan C. Greenberg (1990 Honoree), Diane Blake, Jacob Wallenberg, Cousin of Raoul Wallenberg ( 1990 Gala ); Royal Swedish Order of the Polar Star Ceremony, 2007: Rachel O. Bernheim, Awardee, with Holocaust survivors Peter A. Vagi, Margit K. Demeny, and Ivan E. Becker, and Ambassador Ulf Hjertonsson, Consul General of Sweden; Guy von Dardel, Brother of Raoul Wallenberg (Gala Dinner, Stockholm, 1993); Cindy McCain at 2000 Gala; Carl Nisser, Esq., Cousin of Raoul Wallenberg at 2000 Gala; 1985 Occasion of naming the sidewalk across from the United Nations ‘Raoul Wallenberg Walk’ at First Ave & 47th St., NYC: Rachel O. Bernheim, Jacob Wallenberg, Walter Oppenheim, and Fred Howard. Second Row: H. Ross Perot (1987 Honoree), Margot Perot, and William H. Hayden (2000 Gala); Bonnie Kaye and Fred Howard (1997 Gala); Postmaster Gen- eral Marvin Runyon presenting United States Postal Award to Rachel O. Bernheim, (Issuance of Raoul Wallenberg Stamp, New York City , 1997); Elizabeth Dole (1995 Honoree) with Rachel O. Bernheim (1995 Gala); Dr. Patricia A. McFate and Stephanie Bernheim at the 2007 Royal Swedish Order of the Polar Star Ceremony; Kathy Morin, Arthur E. Levine, President of Teachers College, and Beth Chadwick Kasser (2006 Reception at Teachers College, Columbia University). Third Row: Rachel O. Bernheim, Gov. Mario Cuomo, Amb. Magnus Faxen, et al (1984 N.Y.S. Proclamation: October 5th Raoul Wallenberg Day); Elizabeth McGuinness, RWCUS Executive Administrator with sons Robert (l) and Daniel (r) representing NYFD (2001 Gala); Jack Gumpert Wasserman (2000 Gala); Joel Berson and Sonya Hoover Weiss with Goran Persson, Prime Minister of Sweden and Honoree, at 2001 Gala; Kathryn and Alan C. Greenberg with Elisabeth Kasser (c), Hon- oree (also Honored Alexander S. Kasser, posthumously) at 2000 Gala; Vera Stern at the 2007 Royal Swedish Order of the Polar Star Ceremony; Patrice Ricciotti Morgan, Asst. Principal , Harlem Day Charter School, giving a presentation of A STUDY OF HEROES at Core Knowledge Conference, Anaheim, 2008. Fourth Row: Diane Blake and Kathy Morin (Torch-Light Ceremony Honoring Raoul Wallenberg , Stockholm, 1993); 2007 Swedish Royal Order of the Polar Star Award Ceremony: Ide Dangoor; Rachel O. Bernheim (Award Recipient) with daughter Samantha Haspel; Jeffrey Lewis; Dr. Gerald Caplan, Joel Berson, and Charles Bernheim; Carol Wasserman; Dr. Maureen O’Driscoll-Levy and Flora Major; and Hon. James M. Strock, Sonya Weiss, and Carrin M. Patman.

At every stop along the way … Passing Forward The Raoul Wallenberg Story

Memories are stirred; share the Wallenberg story. It is at the heart of In this spirit, the stories of heroes are ‘gifts’ hearts are moved; A STUDY OF HEROES inspiring and educating to be passed from person to person and minds and opinions through the example of heroic individuals, role from generation to generation. are challenged; lives -models drawn from diverse historical periods, Please join us in this effort. … are changed. The sto- ethnicities, and areas of accomplishment. ries of heroes have the Students of all ages in extraordinarily diverse “I will study and be ready and maybe the power to evoke such settings learn to recognize the real heroes in chance will come.” reactions. Raoul Wallenberg is such a hero. Abraham Lincoln their communities, schools, families and most On education, preparation, Our Committee seizes every opportunity to importantly within themselves. and leadership THE RAOUL WALLENBERG COMMITTEE OF THE UNITED STATES

37 West 26th Street, Suite #403 New York, New York 10010

Phone: (646) 678-3711

Email: [email protected]

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November 7, 2012 A Centenary Gala Honoring Raymond W. Kelly Former Commissioner, NYPD with The Raoul Wallenberg Civic Courage Award

Culminating a year-long sons: Carl and Gail United States; H.E. Commissioner celebration of the 100th Icahn; Alan and Kath- Mr. Marten Grunditz, Raymond W. Kelly Anniversary of Raoul ryn Greenberg; Hon. Ambassador, Perma- Wallenberg’s Birth (b. August 4, 1912 in Swe- David and Ide Dan- nent Representative of Sweden to the den), hundreds of guests gathered for a Gala goor, The Swedish United Nations; H.E. Mr. Mark Brzesinski, Dinner in midtown Manhattan on November Honorary Consul Gen- U.S. Ambassador to Sweden; Olle Wast- 7th, 2012 at The Yale Club . As gale winds eral to New York. berg, Director General and Coordinator roared and heavy snow swirled outside, the of ‘Raoul Wallenberg 2012’; Swedish Honorary Chairper- Raoul Wallenberg Committee of the United Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and H.E. Mr. sons were William States presented, with warmth and gratitude, Ulf Hjertonsson, Former Swedish Ambas- Jefferson Clinton, The Raoul Wallenberg Civic Courage Award sador & New York Consul General. 42nd President of the Carl Nisser (left), RWCUS Board Member and to Raymond W. Kelly, then Commissioner of United States; Her Cousin of Raoul Wallenberg with HRH The United States and Swedish National the New York City Police Department. Madeleine, Princess of Sweden and Chris Royal Highness Made- O’Neill, the Princess’s fiancé Anthems and Swedish folk songs were Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim, Chairman of leine, Princess of Swe- performed by The Young People’s Cho- the Committee, was joined by her husband den; Nina Lagergren and Nane Annan, rus of New York under the direction of Eliza- Charles Bernheim and fellow Gala Chairper- Sister and Niece of Raoul Wallenberg; beth Nunez. Performances included: “Raoul’, Charles Schumer, U.S. an Opera composed by Gershon Kingsley and Senator (NY); H.E. Libretto by Michael Kunze, sung by The Seton “Commissioner Kelly stands as a symbol for New York City and its citizens Mr. Jan Eliasson, Dep- Hall University Chamber Choir under the di- as a bastion of hope in the fight against terrorism—much as Raoul uty Secretary General rection of Dr. Jason Tramm. Wallenberg stood as a symbol for the Jews of Budapest in the fight against of the United Nations; Nazism. In times of crisis, he has he has acted on principle and always with Additionally, a CBS 60 Minutes Film featuring H.E. Mr. Jonas Haf- conviction, pragmatism and courage ...” Ray W. Kelly and moderated by Scott Pelly strom, Swedish Am- — Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim, Chairman — was shown. The evening was festive, power- bassador to the January 2014 ful and moving. A good time was had by all.

The Centenary Gala

November 7, 2012

celebrating The 100th Anniversary Of Raoul Wallenberg’s Birth

Honoring Raymond W. Kelly, Former Commissioner, NYPD with The Raoul Wallenberg Civic Courage Award

At The Yale Club of New York City All Rights Reserved: Photos by : Marco Lips; Kathleen D. Morin The Raoul Wallenberg Committee of the United States, 2014