Sign up for Weekday J and get the latest on what's happening in the Jewish Bay Area.

A longtime advocate and supporter of the Jewish community as New York's governor, Cuomo created the office of Assistant to the Governor for Jewish Affairs, a cabinet-level position.

Cuomo sought stronger enforcement of kosher food regulations, and established the Kosher Food Advisory Council that expanded information for kosher producers and consumers.

Cuomo also maintained a strong pro-Israel record as New York's governor from 1982 to 1994, and built close economic bonds between Israel and New York. He came into the national spotlight after his eloquent and passionate speech to the Democratic Convention in San Francisco in 1982, and for years was considered a leading presidential contender. The New York Times called Cuomo's tenure "one of the lengthiest and most celebrated governorships in recent history."

The American Associates of Ben-Gurion University said Cuomo is regarded as one of the country's clearest and most compelling political voices and a "friend in need" to Israel and the Jews.

Tickets for the dinner are $250, and proceeds go to BGU's student scholarship fund. The Fairmont is located at Mason and California streets. For information, call (415) 399-1090.