Yedidya Diena Named 2025 Valedictorian of Touro’s Lander College for Men

From an early age, Yedidya considered himself a “business-minded individual.”

“I ran a few small businesses growing up, which helped me realize early on that I wanted to pursue a career in the business world,” he said.

But it was during his time at LCM that he discovered his professional direction.

“I wasn’t immediately sure which path to take, accounting or finance. After speaking with professors and exploring my options, I narrowed it down to finance,” he said. “Finance stood out as both stimulating and dynamic, and I was excited by the challenges and opportunities it presented.”

After graduating from Yeshiva Darchei Torah of Toronto for high school, Yedidya studied for two years at Yeshivat Sha’alvim before enrolling at LCM. He chose the college for its unique dual focus: rigorous academics alongside an environment that supported personal and ethical development.

“I appreciated that I wasn’t just a number. The professors and mentors at LCM were accessible, supportive, and truly invested in helping students succeed,” he said.

He credits Rabbi Yonason Sacks, Rosh Yeshiva of LCM, as playing a particularly meaningful role in his growth.

“One of the most impactful parts of my experience was the opportunity to learn under Rabbi Sacks,” Yedidya said. “I also received personal guidance from several mentors who helped me navigate important decisions, both academically and beyond the classroom.”

Yedidya also appreciated the industry experience his professors brought into the classroom.

“Many of my professors came directly from the finance and business world. Their real-world insights and practical mentorship helped make the material come alive and gave me a clearer picture of where I wanted to go professionally.”

Yedidya was recently offered an associate role in a wealth management training program at a leading Canadian bank. The Toronto-based program focuses on developing early-career professionals for future roles in advisory and client service.

Currently, he is learning at the Cross River Kollel, located at the Cross River Bank campus, before entering the workforce full time. He describes the Kollel as “a unique opportunity to build analytical and critical thinking skills through intensive study and discussion,” and sees the experience as another important step in his personal and professional development.

“I want to succeed in my career while staying grounded and purpose-driven,” he said. “My goal is to make a positive impact, both in the workplace and in the broader community.”

Outside of academics, Yedidya enjoys playing ice hockey, learning guitar and cooking. Above all, he’s focused on building a meaningful life — one rooted in growth, purpose, and helping others succeed.