For Immediate Release

Date: May 19, 2009 Contact: Dennine W. Cook Phone: 631-715-2562 Fax:

Commack, NY— At 95 years old, Sylvia Lipeles is more than 75 years older than her high school counterparts who will be celebrating their graduation next month. Sylvia is the Valedictorian of the Class of 2009 for the Adult Education Program at the Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack, one of more than 40 residents who will graduate on Tuesday, June 2 at 7:00 pm. Sylvia enjoys all of the programs offered by the Therapeutic Recreation department, especially those where she can use her mind. “I love to learn. Our adult education classes help me keep learning,” she said.

Students at the Center have participated weekly in courses, studying topics including Kabalah, the History of Broadway, Impressionism and Modern Art, Comedy, and DNA/Criminology/Geneology in preparation for graduation, which will include a traditional cap and gown ceremony. After a processional to Pomp and Circumstance, Sylvia will deliver the Valedictory address, followed by Salutatorian Laura Fiore, 47. Highlighting the ceremony will be the keynote address by Dr. Kathleen Waldron, president of Baruch College of the City University of New York.

Dr. Waldron’s keynote address is anticipated not only by the graduates, but also by family members of the graduates and staff at the Center. She joins past keynote speakers such as best-selling author Susan Isaacs, columnist Ed Lowe, Senator John Flanagan, Congressman Steve Israel, and Yeshiva University President Richard M. Joel, among others, to congratulate Gurwin Center residents on their achievement.

According to Karen Nash, Director of Therapeutic Recreation at the Center, this will be the first graduation experience for many of those participating. “Many residents did not have the opportunity to attend school when they were younger. They grew up during the Depression, so they had to go to work,” she said. “Adult Education here at Gurwin gives all our residents the opportunity to continue learning, no matter what age they are, and the ceremony is beautiful. There won’t be a dry eye in the house!”

You are invited to cover this timely and heart-warming event. For more information, please call Dennine Cook at the Gurwin Center at (631) 715-2562.

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The Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is a 460-bed nursing care facility located in Commack, Long Island. Gurwin offers skilled nursing care, short-term rehabilitation, medical/post-surgical subacute care, respiratory and ventilator dependent care, an adult day health program, hospice care, home care and assisted living.