Eleanor Voss bequeathed $50,000 for scholarships for Kavkazi students, and it was decided, in cooperation with the Jewish Agency, to grant these scholarships to students from Sapir College, most of whom live in Sderot and are thus in greater need of scholarships.

Each student received a scholarship of $1,500, and, if they continue their studies next year and complete their degree, they will receive a similar amount in the coming years, as well.

The ceremony was conducted by Sondra Sokal, a member of the Board of Governors who lives in New York and has for several years served as chairwoman of the committee dealing with immigration from the Former Soviet Union.  Speakers at the ceremony included Ilan Halprin, New York Federation's Israel representative, and Dr. John Ruskay, executive vice-president of UJA New York Federation.

The ceremony was held as part of a tour by the Board of Governors on the subject of Operation Promise, in which they were joined by UJC President and CEO Howard Rieger.

Daniel Sargee, a student who spoke at the ceremony to express gratitude on behalf of the other recipients, said, "My wife and I didn't benefit from a Jewish education while living in the FSU and I'm sure that had we, our absorption in Israel would have been easier.  I thank Eleanor Voss, the UJA-Federation of NY and the Jewish Agency for Israel for answering my prayers.  May God answer yours as He has answered mine."

Dr. John Ruskay described how moved he was by the fact that by receiving a check, a student is able to build his life, progress, and impact upon his surroundings.

Ilan Halprin said that he was convinced that the selected group of students is indeed worthy of this scholarship, and expressed his satisfaction over the fact that the Federation can help these young men and women actualize their potential.

Sondra Sokal briefly surveyed the state of immigration from the FSU and Caucasia, and spoke of the unique culture of the Kavkazi immigrants and the need for assistance in their absorption in Israel.