Mike Heiberger (and remembering Surelle)
Michael Heiberger was born and raised in the East Flatbush section of Brooklyn. He attended local public schools and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Brooklyn College followed by the degree of Doctor of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. He subsequently completed a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration at New York University. He is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry.
Married to Surelle (nee Coleman) in 1968, the couple first settled in Kew Gardens Queens and, after two years, relocated to a new home in Greenlawn with their son, Alex. He was joined two years later by his sister, Elizabeth.
Mike began his professional career as Assistant Director at the Optometric Center of New York in Manhattan. Three years later, a College of Optometry was established within the State University of New York and affiliated with the Optometric Center. Mike served in number of positions over a period of 43 years with the College; including Vice President for Student Affairs, Associate Clinical Professor and Director of International Programs.
During his final six years with the College, he directed the establishment of a Low Vision Service at Wenzhou Medical College in China, the first such program in China, with a grant from the Lavelle Fund for the Blind.
Beginning in 1978, the Heiberger family became members of Temple Beth El. Both children attended Religious School through Hebrew High School. Both Surelle and Mike served in a number of positions at TBE. Surelle most notably was a choir member and the Shofar blower at High Holidays for many years. Mike served as President from 2011-2013 and continues to serve on the Board to this day. Two of the four Heiberger grandchildren became B’nai Mitzvah at TBE as well.
Surelle passed away in April of 2020 at the beginning of COVID. Temple Beth El clergy and congregants were vitally important during this trying time and the family remains extremely grateful for their support.
In 2022, Mike met Patricia Spencer and both now share their lives together and are active participants at TBE.
Surelle passed away in April of 2020 at the beginning of COVID. Temple Beth El clergy and congregants were vitally important during this trying time and the family remains extremely grateful for their support.
In 2022, Mike met Patricia Spencer and both now share their lives together and are active participants at TBE.