Honoring a Lifetime of Service to Jewish Buffalo

At this year’s Campaign for Jewish Buffalo Kickoff Event, Patty Simonson will be recognized with the Judith & Daniel Kantor Professional Service Award in recognition of her nearly 50 years of exceptional leadership and service.

This award, established in 2017, recognizes outstanding Jewish communal professionals whose leadership, dedication, and commitment strengthen Jewish Buffalo. The award honors the legacy of Judy and Danny Kantor and their decades of service to the community.

Since joining the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in 1979, Patty has played a pivotal role in shaping the JCC into a vibrant hub for Jewish life. Her influence spans operations, programming, staff development, community engagement, and Camp Centerland. In 2023, she became CEO, bringing decades of experience, trusted leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the JCC’s mission.

Throughout her career, Patty has championed collaboration, innovation, and connection, helping ensure the JCC remains a welcoming place where people of all ages can learn, grow, and celebrate Jewish life.

“Patty Simonson’s leadership can be seen and felt across both JCC campuses,” said Federation CEO Miriam Abramovich. “Her generosity, optimism, and unwavering belief in the future of Jewish Buffalo make her a brilliant leader and a treasured partner.”

JCC Past President Sue Freed added, “Patty is the heart and soul of the JCC. She leads with compassion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the community, inspiring everyone who has the privilege of working alongside her.”

Through the thousands of lives she has touched over nearly five decades, Patty exemplifies the spirit of the Kantor Professional Service Award and the lasting impact of Jewish communal leadership.

Join us in celebrating Patty on Wednesday, September 23 at the Campaign for Jewish Buffalo Kickoff: Click Here to Register!