Sophia Veffer Upstander Award ⋆ Buffalo Jewish Federation

Sophia Veffer Upstander Award

March 27, 2026

Community Member Spotlight | My Jewish Buffalo

The Holocaust Education Resource Organization’s (HERO) award season is around the corner, and nominations are due soon. To inspire nominations of award-worthy leaders in Western New York, we are proud to spotlight past recipients of the prestigious Sophia Veffer Upstander Award, named in honor of local Holocaust survivor, Sophia Veffer.

Sophia has dedicated her life to creating a more just world by inspiring individuals to act as global citizens, assisting those in need and standing up in the face of adversity.

Past recipients of this award exemplify these values. They are leaders whose dedication, compassion, and vision have left a lasting mark across diverse fields from education and public health to justice and community leadership.

• Among them, Dr. Iris Danziger has empowered thousands of community members with life-saving skills through her Stop the Bleed trainings, ensuring that ordinary citizens are prepared to act in critical moments.

• Attorney Sam White has earned admiration for her unwavering commitment to justice, advocating tirelessly whenever and wherever she encounters inequity.

• Dr. Matthew Giordano has led Villa Maria College, with a focus on creativity, accessibility, and student success, shaping the next generation of leaders.

• Last year’s honoree, Herb Bellamy Jr., has been a driving force in uplifting the community through entrepreneurship, mentorship, and advocacy.

Together, these individuals represent the very best of civic leadership and service. Their achievements not only reflect personal excellence but also underscore the profound impact one individual can have in building a stronger, more compassionate community.

Buffalo Jewish Federation and HERO invite you to nominate an outstanding individual for this year’s Sophia Veffer Upstander Award. Please fill out this form by April 15.