60 Faces of NCSY

Often, a person has no idea of the impact he or she has made on someone else. 60 Faces of NCSY was created to change that. The people we feature every day were nominated by NCSY alumni and NCSYers to express gratitude to someone that inspired them.

Rabbi Arieh & Elissa Friedner

Directors of Cleveland NCSY

Nominated and written by Isabella Sax, NCSY Alumna

Throughout high school, I knew I could always count on the Friedners to always be there for me no matter the issue; whether it be a bad day or some necessary spiritual uplifting. They have inspired me with their unbelievable words of wisdom, Torah, and an incredible amount of hachnasat orchim. The Friedners have been my mentors, teachers, and friends, and even now, after my days as an NCSYer, they still play such a large part in my life. I know that they will continue to inspire others, as they have myself, for many years to come. Bottom line, they’re just all around awesome.

How did Rabbi Arieh Friedner inspire me? Where do I even begin?

For starters, Rabbi  Arieh Friedner taught me that each and every person has endless potential. He taught me that nobody is ordinary, every one is capable of being extraordinary. Rabbi Arieh helped me grow up. He took me under his wing and he taught me how to strive to be the best leader I can be.  I have had the privilege of watching him turn people’s lives around with my own eyes. Hearing Rabbi Arieh’s perspectives and ideas helps me know how much there is in the world to discover. Because of him, I know that this world and everything around me has so many layers, so much depth, if I just care to discover it.