Celebrating Leadership & Legacy
Honoring South Bend’s Jewish Community Champions
On June 5th at the Annual Meeting of the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, the local Jewish community came together to honor individuals whose leadership and dedication continue to shape and strengthen Jewish life in Greater South Bend. Three prestigious awards were presented, each highlighting the unique contributions of this year’s honorees.
Sam Rose was honored with the Robert Simon Leadership Award, established by Kurt and Tessye Simon in memory of their son. This award recognizes emerging leaders who demonstrate exceptional community involvement. A lifelong resident of Greater South Bend, Sam has been instrumental in revitalizing young adult engagement through his work with the NEXTGen Young Adults Committee and Voices of the Future. His recent experience on a Partnership2Gether Young Adult trip to Budapest further deepened his commitment to Jewish identity and service. In his acceptance, Sam expressed surprise and gratitude, reflecting on his journey of reconnection and his desire to give back to the community that shaped him.
Lynda Simon received the Betty and Sam Schpok Spirit of Federation Award, a lifetime achievement honor recognizing selfless giving and enduring leadership. Lynda’s decades of service have touched nearly every aspect of Jewish communal life. At Temple Beth-El, she has served as Sisterhood Vice President, Temple House co-chair, and board member, creating warm, welcoming spaces for every occasion. She is also a Lion of Judah, a member of the Federation’s Fine Arts Committee, and a recipient of Temple Beth-El’s Distinguished Service and Woman of the Year awards. Lynda is known for her grace, wisdom, and ability to lead with both heart and practicality. Her peers describe her as someone who always knows the right thing to say—and more importantly, the right thing to do.
Bob Feferman was presented with the Lisa Lerman Community Bridge Award, honoring his decades of work building bridges across Jewish denominations and interfaith communities. In his remarks, Bob paid tribute to Lisa Lerman’s legacy and emphasized the importance of teamwork. He credited his wife Shoshana, the Jewish Federation staff, and the many volunteers and committee leaders he’s worked with, including Barbara Lerman, chair of the Community Relations Committee. “Good things only happen with a great team,” he said. Bob’s leadership has extended far beyond the Jewish community, fostering partnerships with Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, and others. His work continues to unite and uplift, making him a true connector and advocate.
Together, these honorees reflect the heart of South Bend’s Jewish community—leaders who inspire, serve, and strengthen the bonds that hold us together.
Students Honored with Silver Scholarships
The Neil and Leah Silver Advanced Degree Scholarship, supporting Jewish students from the Greater South Bend area, proudly recognized three outstanding recipients for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Andrew Wayne graduated from Butler University in 2022 with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Anthropology, and a minor in Business Law. He currently works in Indianapolis as a beloved associate at J.Crew, where his interest in fashion and management has inspired him to pursue an MBA at Butler.
Mia Schwartz is pursuing a Master’s in Geology through a joint program at the University of Iceland and the University of Minnesota. She is currently in her second year and conducting research in Iceland, supported by a Fulbright Grant. The Silver Scholarship will help supplement her research and living expenses abroad.
Sarah Snider has been accepted into the PhD program in Film, Television, and Media at the University of Michigan, beginning this fall. Her studies will be supported by the Todd Adelman Doctoral Fellowship through the Frankel Center for Judaic Studies.