Russian Roots

A Challenge Beckons

Law school grad taking off for Jerusalem to clerk for the Israeli Supreme Court.

DIANA LIEBERMAN
Staff Writer

T

he Dec. 20 party at the
West Bloomfield home of
Malika and Gregory
Cherkasov celebrated more
than the graduation of their older son,
Bernard, from the University of
Michigan law school.
It was also a goodbye party, wishing
the newly minted lawyer the best of
luck as he prepared to fly to Jerusalem

for a six-month clerkship with the
Israel Supreme Court.
As family and friends enjoyed at
least 30 courses of American and
Sephardic cuisine, the 28-year-old
Cherkasov considered his life so far, as
well as relishing the challenges yet to
come.
Born in Azerbaijan, a former Soviet
Republic near Armenia and Iran, he
came with his family to the United
States when he was 13 years old. At
the time, he spoke no English.

"Many immigrants to the United
States are discouraged by stumbling
blocks," Cherkasov says. "I was lucky
to have the family I did. They chal-
lenged me, but also encouraged me."
After graduating from Southfield-
Lathrup High School, Cherkasov went
on to the University of Michigan,
where he earned a bachelor's degree.
Among his many activities, he organ-
ized the first international conference
of Jewish gay and lesbian students,
sponsored by U-M's Hillel, which

took place in February 1998.
He then attended Harvard
University, earning a master's degree in
religion, public policy and law.
U-M law school deferred his admis-
sion for a year so he could accept an
International Public Policy Fellowship
at the International Center in
Washington, D.C.
At U-M law school, Cherkasov
became senior editor of the Journal of
International Law. He heard about the
six-month clerkship with Israel's

On behalf of myself and my family,

I would like to express my sincere
thanks to all my devoted customers for
their loyal support over the past 8 years.

It was a true pleasure serving
the Greater Detroit Community.
We wish the new owners of
One Stop Kosher
much success.

Have a Happy Chanukah

Benji liana Silverstein & Family

5

2003

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