Shana Singer

St. Louis

I am both honored and humbled to be this year’s Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland award honoree. To be recognized alongside the extraordinary women who came before me is something I do not take lightly.

I try to live by the values of tzedakah and Tikkun Olam, charity and repairing the world, and it means everything that these are the very values at the heart of this recognition.

I have worn my Lion pin proudly for nearly 25 years. It is so much more than a piece of jewelry to me. It is a daily reminder of why I do this work, my love for my family, my community, and the Jewish people everywhere. It reminds me that the sacred work of caring for one another, l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation, belongs to each of us.

Becoming a Lion was a goal I set for myself after graduating from grad school. I watched my parents and sister doing this important work and I wanted to be a part of that world. I am proud that I took that step, and my husband and I have remained committed donors ever since.

Over these 25 years, my Lion has given me lifelong friendships, moments of real joy, and the privilege of doing meaningful work. It has helped me feel, one small step at a time, that I am doing my part to piece the world back together.

I am deeply grateful to the St. Louis Jewish Federation and to this remarkable sisterhood of women. Thank you for this honor.