Our Donors
Educating the Next Generation
Establishing a scholarship fund creates the gift of education for a new generation of immigrants. Below are profiles of just a few of our many generous donors.
The Helen and Jacob Swergold Scholarship Award
Leopold Swergold created this fund both to honor his parents’ memory and in appreciation of the assistance HIAS provided following his family’s arrival in the U.S.The Swergold family – Leopold, his older brother, and parents – left their native Belgium following the 1940 Nazi invasion. After “bouncing around France and Spain,” as described by Leopold, the family eventually immigrated to Havana, Cuba, where they lived from 1941 until 1946. In 1946, they immigrated to the United States, without funds and with Jacob in ill health. HIAS helped Jacob “get back on his feet” so the Swergold family could begin their new life in this country.
The Herman and Pearl Benioff Scholarship Award
Mrs. Ilene Prokup established this fund in 2005, through the Estate of Pearl Benioff, to honor the memory of her aunt and uncle, Pearl and Herman Benioff. They strongly believed in the importance of a good education and it is Mrs. Prokup’s hope that, through this gift, worthy immigrants will always have the opportunity to become productive and meaningful members of American society.
The Harry Ginsberg Memorial Scholarship Award
This fund was established by the children of Harry Ginsberg, an active member of HIAS’ Board of Directors for over 30 years, to honor his memory and his dedication to HIAS and its work. On Harry Ginsberg’s 100th birthday, HIAS presented him with a scroll that stated in part, “In grateful recognition of a lifetime of devotion to the cause of refugees and immigrants… [this] organization is fortunate to have been a recipient of his outstanding humanitarianism and generosity of spirit.” His commitment to aiding those in need lives on through this scholarship fund.
If you have donated to the HIAS Scholarship Program, we would love to share your story as well! Just contact the HIAS Scholarship Department at 212-613-1303 or scholarship@hias.org.
