Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy’s (HBHA) graduation ceremony is a celebration of personal development, academic achievement and deepening Jewish identity seniors experience throughout their time at HBHA.
This year’s ceremony will take place on Monday, May 12, at 7 p.m. at the Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J and will be an opportunity for the community to come together in support of the graduates as they mark this milestone.
Every year, the graduation ceremony at HBHA is a reflection of the values and educational priorities the school emphasizes. The seniors who take the stage are honored not only for their academic success but for the people they have become through HBHA’s teachings to be ethical, independent thinkers with profound connections to their Jewish heritage.
One of the most unique aspects of HBHA’s graduation is the students’ speeches. Each graduate shares stories, memories and experiences from their time at HBHA, offering a reflection on their journey. What truly sets these speeches apart is that they are delivered in both English and Hebrew. This not only showcases the students’ language proficiency but also the confidence and fluency they develop through years of immersive education at HBHA.
Another tradition at HBHA’s graduation is the recognition of the seniors’ Hebrew names. A name in Jewish tradition holds deep spiritual significance, often reflecting hopes for the person’s character and future. HBHA honors this tradition by sharing the Hebrew names of each senior, offering insight into how they have come to embody the meaning of their names over the years. These individualized recognitions reflect the perspectives of HBHA staff who have watched them grow from childhood into young adults.
“Walking across that stage, speaking to my community in Hebrew and hearing my name connected to its Jewish meaning felt like the perfect way to end this chapter of my life. It's an experience I'll never forget," said HBHA alumna Emma Rosenthal, Class of 2024.
As Head of School Annie Glickman said, “Graduation at HBHA is a deeply meaningful milestone that goes beyond celebrating academics. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on the incredible growth of our students — intellectually, personally and as Jewish individuals. It’s an honor to witness their journey, and we are excited to see them step confidently into the next chapter of their lives. This ceremony is a testament to what makes HBHA so special: our commitment to nurturing well-rounded, thoughtful and compassionate individuals, determined to make a positive impact on our people and the world.”