Oct 29, 2007 -- Legendary singer, songwriter and mental health advocate Judy Collins was the special guest speaker when Yeshiva University’s Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology celebrated its 50th Anniversary at a gala on Sunday, October 28 at the United Nations. After warming up the crowd with an a cappella version of her hit “Both Sides Now,” Ms. Collins spoke about the importance of psychology in her life and generally: “My life is a miracle because of the help of people like you. You are in the vanguard of all of this good work.”

The dinner honored prominent philanthropists Eugene and Estelle Ferkauf, who are the founding benefactors of the school. Mr. Ferkauf is the founder of the legendary discount retailer E. J. Korvette’s. Speaking for her husband, Mrs. Ferkauf said, “We are so glad to have this opportunity to thank those that have brought this school to such a high level of excellence.” To view photos of the dinner click here.

Drs. Moshe Anisfeld, Irma Hilton, and Lillian Zach, founding faculty at the school, were also saluted. On accepting his award for outstanding service and exemplary career, Dr. Anisfeld said, “Ferkauf has prospered on change and has responded to innovations during change.” Dr. Hilton thanked the people she has worked with in her over forty-year career: “My relationships with my colleagues and my students have been the best part of my professional career.” Dr. Lillian Zach said, “We have an outstanding school of psychology—one that enjoys an incredible national reputation.”

Dr. Kelly Posner Gerstenhaber of New York City, a member of the Ferkauf class of 1998 who is a world-renowned expert on the relationship between antidepressants and suicide in children, was cited as this year’s Distinguished Alumna. “I am thrilled beyond description to receive this honor,” Dr. Posner said.

Also honored was the late Samson Bitensky, the first chairman of the Ferkauf Board of Governors who died last year. His exemplary leadership significantly advanced the school and helped bring it to its present level of excellence and prestige. President Richard Joel called him “a visionary in business and philanthropy.”

New York City Michael R. Bloomberg issued a proclamation declaring the day of the landmark event, "Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology Day in New York City."

Ferkauf’s nationally recognized programs prepare doctoral level psychologists and master’s level counselors for successful and rewarding careers by providing extensive coursework, practicum and externship experiences, and research opportunities.

Proceeds from the gala will benefit the school’s scholarship and expansion initiatives. The school is currently working to create additional space for classrooms, research laboratories, and faculty offices.

Dr. Robert Gordon, class of 1986, and Dr. Robin Hirtz Meltzer served as dinner co-chairs. Honorary chairs were Dr. Esther Joel, class of 1983; Dr. Giti Bendheim, class of 1991; and Dr. Carol Bravmann, class of 1982. Honorary vice chairs were Lenore Ferkauf Bronstein and Robert Bronstein, a daughter and son-in-law of the Ferkaufs; Bobby Ferkauf Kurzweil, another daughter of the Ferkaufs; Dr. Beth Myers, class of 1986, chair of the Ferkauf School’s Board of Governors, and daughter of Samson Bitensky; and Dr. Lawrence J. Siegel, the Dean of Ferkauf.