faces&places

30 | DECEMBER 26 • 2024 
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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. 
 

