The University Academy recognized Marilyn L. Cohen as the 2010-2011 Volunteer of the Year. She has dedicated her time at UA for the past eight years and continues to be dedicated to serving UA staff and students, in spite of dealing with multiple sclerosis in the many forms it can present itself.
University Academy was built on the former site of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. The presentation of this honor was given by Barnett and Bush Helzberg, and Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Anderson.
Cohen can be found assisting at the front desk by greeting parents with a warm smile and a friendly hello, answering the phone, or walking the halls and giving an extra hug to students who are having a down day. She has also home-schooled students who were unable to attend UA due to illness, assisted the nurse and has spearheaded the Journal Project that is completed during Mitzvah Day at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah.
One of the greatest contributions that Cohen has made was to put into action the eyeglass program. She founded and continues to finance the Eyeglass Program, which enables students to be given eyeglasses if their families are unable to afford them. The students are taken by Cohen to the ophthalmologist for an eye exam, provided for free by partnering organizations, and then are fitted for frames and lenses at a discounted price. Currently, 61 students have benefited from this unique program.
Cohen is a member of the B’nai Jehudah Sisterhood Board of Directors, serves on the Social Justice Committee and was on the Hunger Banquet Committee this past year. She is also a kindergarten religious school teacher at The Temple and a substitute teacher at schools in the greater Kansas City area. Cohen believes that we all need to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves in any way possible; especially children, as they are her greatest passion.
University Academy officials said Cohen is truly altruistic in nature as she has tirelessly devoted her time and resources to the school and has never expected anything in return. She is greatly valued by students and staff and her spirit is a true blessing as she travels daily throughout the school.
