The Harborfields Central School District is proud to announce that Jane Pashman, a valued member of the Harborfields community, was recently honored with the Louis E. Yavner Citizen Award on behalf of the New York State Education Department. This esteemed award honors one individual each year who goes above and beyond to educate students on the Holocaust. Mrs. Pashman was recognized by Roger B. Tilles at a meeting of the New York State Board of Regents on January 14 in Albany, New York.
Holocaust education plays a crucial role in preserving history and combating hate, making Mrs. Pashman’s dedication and efforts profoundly impactful. She has been integral in incorporating Holocaust education and anti-bias programming into the Harborfields Central School District curriculum. The foundation for her educational approach stems from personal stories, however, as the years pass, there are fewer survivors available to share their first-hand account. As the Long Island Coordinator of 3GNY, Mrs. Pashman brings grandchildren of Holocaust survivors to schools so they can share their grandparents’ stories.
Since 2021, Mrs. Pashman has been the Director of Holocaust Education and Anti-Bias Programs at the Suffolk Y JCC. One of her main projects is overseeing their Names, Not Numbers program, a Holocaust documentary film project for high school students. Jane has worked with many students and Holocaust survivors to create the documentary. This important film will premiere at Harborfields High School on Thursday, January 23, at 7:00 PM.
Through her leadership, Mrs. Pashman has inspired countless students and educators to not only remember the Holocaust but to actively work against bias and hate in today’s world. As the former Director of the Anti-Defamation League’s No Place for Hate programs in the New York region, Mrs. Pashman introduced the program to the Harborfields Central School District and other area schools. The program aims to combat prejudice and work towards inclusive school communities. All schools in the Harborfields Central School District are continuously designated as No Place for Hate schools, thanks to Mrs. Pashman’s ongoing efforts.
“We are beyond pleased that Mrs. Jane Pashman was recognized by the New York State Education Department for her profound efforts in educating students on the Holocaust,” said Dr. Rory Manning, Superintendent of Schools. “Mrs. Pashman has contributed greatly to Holocaust education and Anti-Bias programming at Harborfields and throughout the region making her nomination for this award a very easy decision for our leadership team. I join with our Board of Education and our entire school community in congratulating Mrs. Pashman on the outstanding legacy of her work and her recognition as the recipient of the 2024-2025 Louis E. Yavner Citizen Award.”
The Louis E. Yavner Citizen Award is presented annually by the New York State Education Department to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to NewYork State education about the Holocaust. The award was established to honor Holocaust survivors, scholars of the Holocaust, and self-taught experts who help to educate students.
This recognition underscores the Harborfields Central School District's commitment to fostering education that builds empathy, understanding, and a strong sense of community. While it is nearly impossible to quantify the total number of people reached through Mrs. Pashman’s work, it is not hard to see the lasting impact. Her tireless efforts to educate students on the Holocaust, diversity, and anti-bias are incredibly important, remarkably valuable, and serve as an inspiration to all.
Date Added: January 15, 2025