For the past 10 years, Holocaust survivor Mordechai Miller has shared his story of survival and how good people came to his aid with students in Christina Cone’s Holocaust and Genocide class at High School West. Deprived of an education in Poland during World War II, Mr. Miller also expresses to the students how they should be appreciative of their education. 

To honor Mr. Miller’s message of doing right by others, HSW helped make his lifelong dream of being a high school graduate finally come true. During the 103rd commencement of High School West on June 21, Mr. Miller was bestowed an honorary degree. Joining the Class of 2018, the 87-year-old donned a cap and gown and sat with his fellow graduates as he waited to hear his name called by Principal John Coady.

“It’s very exciting,” Mr. Miller said on being granted the honorary diploma. Added his daughter Leah Miller, “He has always wanted this opportunity and tonight, they have made his dream come true.” 

Mr. Miller came to America in 1956 where he settled in Brooklyn and met his wife. Together, they have four children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He now resides in East Northport.