Rabbanim, communal leaders, family members and friends gathered at the Orthodox Union's headquarters in Manhattan on Tuesday to honor the memory and legacy of Rabbi Moshe Hauer zt”l ahead of his first yahrzeit.

Approximately 150 people attended the gathering, according to JNS, while additional participants joined by livestream. Rabbi Hauer served as executive vice president of the Orthodox Union from 2020 until his petirah last year at the age of 60.

Among those addressing the gathering were Rabbi Josh Joseph, CEO of the Orthodox Union; Rabbi Yaakov Neuburger, Rosh Yeshiva at RIETS and Rav of Congregation Beth Abraham; Rabbi Shmuel Silber, the incoming executive vice president of the OU; and Rabbi Hauer's son, Rabbi Shlomo Hauer.

Speakers reflected on Rabbi Hauer's dedication to Torah, his concern for individuals and his years of leadership on behalf of Klal Yisrael.

Rabbi Shlomo Hauer recalled his father's ability to make time for individuals despite the many demands placed upon him, describing the personal relationships he maintained and the pleasure he took in connecting with people one-on-one.

Rabbi Neuburger reflected on Rabbi Hauer's ability to combine public leadership with humility, while Rabbi Silber spoke about the influence Rabbi Hauer had on him over more than two decades and the lessons he imparted through his personal example.

A video presentation shown during the gathering featured moments from Rabbi Hauer's years at the OU, including his teachings about Torah, tefillah and achdus among Yidden.

Rabbi Josh Joseph told attendees that Rabbi Hauer's influence continues to be felt through the Torah he taught, the relationships he developed and the values that guided his work. JNS reported that Joseph described the many people approaching him with their own personal memories of Rabbi Hauer as an indication of the broad impact he had on individuals throughout the community.

The gathering concluded with participants reflecting on carrying Rabbi Hauer's commitment to Torah, Klal Yisrael and communal responsibility forward as his first yahrzeit approaches.