By Rabbi Eli Slomnicki
It is nearly impossible to capture the multifaceted legacy of Rabbi Meyer Fendel, z’l, in a single article. He was a man who harmonized seemingly disparate worlds: Olam Hayeshivot with Tzionut, the Mussar Movement with the teachings of Rav Kook, classical yeshiva study with contemporary educational practices, and dreaming with relentless hard work. Yet, as I reflect on his impact while occupying the office he once held as the founding Principal of the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County (HANC), I feel compelled to share his extraordinary story.
Founded in 1953, HANC remains a premier yeshiva day school and is now on the verge of its greatest expansion in more than 70 years. What is remarkable, however, is how Rabbi Fendel’s legacy continues to shape each campus. In the high school, for example, pictures of Rav Kook adorn the walls, reflecting Rabbi Fendel’s passion for Tzionut and the profound influence Rav Kook had on him. His dedication to tikkun hamiddos and the Mussar Movement is woven into every student’s experience. Most significantly, his belief in embracing all segments of Jewish life—a cornerstone of his founding vision—remains evident in HANC’s steadfast devotion to Ahavat Yisrael.
Rabbi Fendel was a visionary with unshakable principles and determination. His book, “Nine Men Wanted for a Minyan,” recounts the extraordinary journey of founding HANC and the Young Israel of West Hempstead, two institutions that have become pillars of Torah life. At a time when Nassau County lacked formal Jewish educational institutions, Rabbi Fendel dared to envision a thriving Torah-observant community. Guided by Torah Umesorah and figures like Mr. Mendelovich (whose grandchildren attended HANC), he turned that vision into a reality.
Rabbi Fendel’s commitment to building on a foundation of Torah, Halacha, and academic excellence was exemplary. His decisions, though often difficult, ensured that HANC’s core values would remain intact. One striking anecdote highlights his courage. At a public discourse following the Six-Day War, Rabbi Fendel challenged Rav Yitzchak Hutner for downplaying the miraculous nature of the war. Despite the pressure to remain silent, Rabbi Fendel remained firm, though Rav Hutner later explained privately that his approach was guided more by pragmatic concerns rather than ideology.
Rabbi Fendel’s educational and pedagogical leadership were legendary. His colleagues such as Rabbi Shaye Schonbrun, former General Studies Principal at HANC High School, described HANC under Rabbi Fendel as “an educational utopia, an ideal place to learn and work.” He founded Camp Nevei Ashdod, earning the praise of Rav Ovadiah Yosef, and was a pioneer in educational innovation, using candid-camera techniques to teach ethics. He was also instrumental in the founding of Midmo, the seminary formerly known as Midreshet Moriah, and fulfilled his own dream of making aliyah in the mid-1980s.
Although I grew up in West Hempstead and attended HANC at a time when Rabbi Fendel’s daily presence was less frequent, his impact, and that of his eishet chayil, Goldie, a’h, was deeply felt. One story from my mother encapsulates their profound empathy and care. When my parents moved to West Hempstead, Rabbi Fendel was no longer the mara d’asra of Young Israel, and my family was not yet part of the HANC community. A short while later, my maternal grandparents tragically passed away and the shivah was curtailed by yom tov. For years afterwards, Goldie and Rabbi Fendel called my mother every Erev Shabbat to check on her, a simple, but profound gesture that left an indelible mark.
In a world often marked by division, Rabbi Fendel modeled a harmonious and integrated religious life, drawing from diverse influences to serve as a guide and inspiration to a wide spectrum of Jews. His leadership leaves a legacy and responsibility on HANC, a yeshiva known for its aspirational academics, warmth, commitment to community, passion for Eretz Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael, and unwavering ahavat Yisrael.
Rabbi Fendel’s legacy is not only reflected in the institutions he built but also in his family, who continue his work in Eretz Yisrael. His children lead Torah institutions and embody the ideals of Torah, Avodah, and Gemilus Chassadim that he instilled as both their father and their principal at HANC.
Rabbi Meyer Fendel was a dreamer who built communities, institutions, and souls. His vision, principles, and compassion leave an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come. May his memory be for a blessing. n
Rabbi Eli Slomnicki is the Principal of HANC High School and a graduate of the Class of 1997.
