Tanya Arbit

Milwaukee

It is a profound honor to accept the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award.

When I arrived in the United States from the Former Soviet Union in 1989 with my son, the Jewish community welcomed us with warmth, kindness, and love. I came without a meaningful Jewish education, but through that embrace I became rooted in Jewish life and dedicated myself to preserving for others what was so generously given to me.

Along the way, the Lions I met became my role models. They represented commitment, generosity, leadership, and devotion to the Jewish people.

Only years earlier, Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby Friedland envisioned something extraordinary: a powerful movement of Jewish women united in strengthening our communities and caring for Jews around the world. Their vision transformed Jewish philanthropy and inspired generations of women.

I am deeply grateful to those who built our institutions, illuminated our path, and set such an inspiring example.

I am humbled, honored, and blessed to now stand among them.