faces&places 30 | DECEMBER 26 • 2024 J N T he Zekelman Holocaust Center (The HC) hosted its 40th Anniversary Benefit Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 10, at Huntington Place in Detroit. The evening brought together more than 1,400 attendees, including com- munity leaders, corporate supporters, educators, Holocaust survivors, veterans and other members of the Jewish com- munity. The 40th anniversary attendance marked the largest turnout in dinner history, reflecting a growing commit- ment to The HC’s mission to educate the public about the Holocaust to combat contemporary antisemitism. This year’s event honored Marcie and Rob Orley for their exceptional dedica- tion to Detroit’s Jewish community, pri- oritizing the education of the public to counteract the rising threat of antisem- itism. As prominent local and national figures, Marcie and Rob Orley have contributed significantly to numerous Jewish and philanthropic organizations. “Marcie and Rob lend their name to many important causes. They accepted this honor because they feel so deeply that with the passage of time, and the loss of the survivor generation, that we must all become advocates for Holocaust education,” said Rabbi Eli Mayerfeld, CEO of The HC. “ Antisemitic acts are reaching unprecedented levels in American society, and the Orleys’ lead- ership helps further our work.” Celebrated international best-selling author, Detroit Free Press columnist and broadcaster Mitch Albom served as key- note speaker. Also among the evening’s distinguished attendees was U.S. Sen.- Elect Elissa Slotkin. “The Center’s commitment to preserv- ing the memories of Holocaust victims and survivors, while instilling tolerance, empathy, and the importance of stand- ing against hatred and antisemitism, is a mission of profound significance — one that will resonate for genera- The Zekelman Holocaust Center Celebrates 40th Anniversary TOP: Alan Zekelman, Steven Grant, Marcie and Rob Orley, Rabbi Eli Mayerfeld, Gary Karp. MIDDLE: Benefit chairs Jennifer and Brian Hermelin. Amy and Bennett Grosinger. BOTTOM Marcie Orley. Mitch Albom. Ethan Davidson and Jim Berger. tions to come,” Slotkin said. “ As we reflect on its four decades of work and look toward the decades to come, all Michiganders should acknowledge the Center’s essential role in educating our communities, shaping compassion- ate leaders and fostering a more just world.” Proceeds from the Anniversary Benefit directly support The HC’s edu- cational programming, which reaches more than 100,000 students, teachers and professionals each year.