Gershaniks to be honored by NCJW with 50th annual award
The Greater New Orleans Section of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) will recognize Ana and Juan Gershanik with its highest honor – the 2016 Hannah G. Solomon Award. The Gershaniks will be honored at the upcoming 50th Hannah G. Solomon Award luncheon on Monday, September 26 at The Westin New Orleans Canal Place Grand Ballroom from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm.
2016 Hannah G. Solomon Award recipients Dr. Juan and Ana Gershanik. (Photo by Michael Maples)
The Hannah G. Solomon Award is named for the founder of the NCJW, a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Among its most noted community service programs are the Fox 8 Defenders consumer advocacy program; the Home Instruction for Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) that offers education enrichment for preschool children; the Alzheimer’s Care and Enrichment (ACE), which provides activities at the Jewish Community Center for patients and caregivers; the Sara B. Stone Educational Enrichment Fund which provides needed financial assistance to Jewish students pursuing academic or vocational goals and the Irma M. Isaacson Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides college financial aid scholarships to deserving New Orleans students.
Since 1966 this award has been presented annually to community leaders, who exemplify the qualities of Hannah G. Solomon. Each recipient is recognized as a catalyst for social change and has brought about important community programs and services through their leadership as a volunteer.
Susan Kierr serves as the section president of the NCJW. Chairman of the event is Loel Samuel. Committee members are Barri Bronston, Leslie Fischman, Barbara Kaplinsky (Vice President), Tricia Kirschman, Millie Davis Kohn, Jenny Nathan (Vice President), Phyllis Nitzkin, Madalyn Schenk, Kathy Shepard, Judy Steinberg and Carol Wise.
Reservations should be made by September 16 and can be secured by visiting www.NCJWneworleans.org. Checks should be made payable to NCJW, GNO Section, and mailed to Kathy Shepard, 3311 State Street Drive, New Orleans, LA 70125. Tickets are $65 per person. Self-parking is available at Canal Place Mall for $8.00, while valet parking is also available at $20.00.
