Caleb Starr Shines Bright as the Recipient of Prestigious Jewish Student Award in Detroit
Detroit, MI – This week, a special honor was bestowed upon one remarkable young student, and the excitement is palpable in the community! Caleb Starr, a bright star at Frankel Jewish Academy, has been awarded the prestigious David Hermelin Legacy Award. This award not only celebrates his academic prowess but also highlights his outstanding leadership qualities within both his school and the wider community.
A Legacy of Love and Learning
The award comes as a heartfelt tribute to the late Ambassador David Hermelin (of blessed memory), who served as the United States Ambassador to Norway from 1997 to 2000. Known for his philanthropic efforts and community spirit, Ambassador Hermelin made a lasting impact. The award, generously sponsored by Sam and Nancy Shamie and their family, aims to continue his legacy by recognizing exceptional students at local Jewish day schools.
Criteria of Excellence
The award is specifically tailored for middle and high school students who demonstrate academic excellence in both Judaic and secular studies. However, it’s not just about grades! Students must also show remarkable leadership skills in their school or community. Nominations are submitted by school administrators, and a selection committee comprised of members from the Shamie and Hermelin families, as well as a representative from the Jewish Federation of Detroit, reviews all applications carefully.
Caleb’s Winning Essay
This year’s essay prompt was inspired by a wise saying from Pirkei Avot, which asks, “Who is wise? One who learns from all people.” Caleb’s essay, aptly titled “From All My Teachers I Have Grown Wise,” delved into this powerful idea. He argued that real wisdom comes not from snippets of information online but from the diverse perspectives of actual teachers and mentors.
In his essay, Caleb reflected on his transformative experience studying in Israel, as well as his involvement in the inaugural Coalition for Black and Jewish Unity Leadership Academy. This program gathers Black and Jewish students in Detroit, united by a shared vision for peace and understanding. “As Ben Zoma emphasizes,” Caleb shared, “wisdom can only be gained when we listen to everyone. As Jews, it is imperative that we seek out new teachers to gain a broader perspective.”
Celebrating a Bright Future
When asked about Caleb, Steve Ingber, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Detroit, couldn’t help but beam with pride. “Caleb represents the best of our day school students,” he said. “We thank Sam and Nancy Shamie for honoring the memory of Ambassador Hermelin with this meaningful award.” It’s clear that Caleb is not just excelling in his studies; he’s also making significant strides in fostering unity and understanding among different communities.
Who is Caleb Starr?
Caleb is the proud son of Rebecca and Rabbi Aaron Starr from Southfield. His achievements at Frankel Jewish Academy and beyond are a testament to the values instilled in him by his family and educators. It’s inspiring to see such a young individual already making meaningful contributions to society.
In Conclusion
The David Hermelin Legacy Award is more than just an honor; it’s a celebration of the values that Ambassador Hermelin stood for: education, community, and a commitment to making the world a better place. With students like Caleb leading the way, the future indeed looks bright for the Jewish community in Detroit. Here’s to more inspiring stories and continuous growth in wisdom and understanding!
