"Jacqueline Kimmelstiel's Inspiring College Day: A Holocaust Survivor's Dream Fulfilled"
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"Jacqueline Kimmelstiel's Inspiring College Day: A Holocaust Survivor's Dream Fulfilled"
[!CDATA[A 97-year-old Holocaust survivor, Jacqueline Kimmelstiel, fulfilled her lifelong dream of attending college through Hebrew Home RiverSpring Living's "golden wish" program. Forced to leave school at age 12 during World War II, Kimmelstiel spent a day at the University of Mount Saint Vincent in Riverdale, taking English and French classes and even attending a basketball game as an honorary coach. The experience was a poignant moment for Kimmelstiel, who expressed her joy at finally being able to pursue her passion for learning. Kimmelstiel's day began with an English Literature class where she was moved by a poem read by Dr. Leonard Nalencz. She then participated in a French class, showcasing her language skills acquired during her time in France. Despite not being a sports enthusiast, she enjoyed the basketball game and was honored as an "official Dolphin" by the school's team mascot. The day concluded with a graduation ceremony where she received an official college certificate, fulfilling a dream that had eluded her for decades. The idea for Kimmelstiel's college experience stemmed from her desire to engage in academics, a wish that RiverSpring Living helped make a reality. The program's chief communications officer, Wendy Steinberg, coordinated with the University of Mount St. Vincent to create a memorable day for Kimmelstiel. Her grandchildren, Jonah Kimmelstiel and Rebecca Kevelson, who also participated in the day's events, emphasized the significance of education in their grandmother's life and the importance of fulfilling her dream of attending college. As Kimmelstiel received her college degree, university president Susan R. Burns commended her resilience and unwavering hope for a better future despite enduring unimaginable hardships. Reflecting on her late husband's pride in her accomplishments, Kimmelstiel expressed gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a special day surrounded by loved ones. The fulfillment of her dream to attend college symbolized a triumph over adversity and a testament to the enduring power of education in her life.]]