The fifth annual She’s a Maccabee award-winners have been announced by Jewish Interest-Free Loan Association of Georgia (JIFLA). This initiative celebrates extraordinary Jewish women whose skills, talents, passions, and dedication have a lasting impact in their community.
The award was established to recognize modern-day heroines who embody the courage and resilience of the Maccabees in the Chanukah story. Maccabees were a group of Jewish rebels who fought against outsiders who tried to destroy the temple in Jerusalem. The name Maccabees name comes from the Hebrew word for “hammer.”
The 2024 award winners are volunteers and deeply rooted in the Jewish community:
- Sherry Frank, a longtime Civil Rights activist, leader in Black/Jewish relations and women’s rights supporter.
- Tracey Grant, co-chair of the MJCCA Book Festival, who hosts a weekly Torah study in her home.
- Susan Heidt, who opened her home to those displaced by hurricanes.
- Keri Kaufmann, who provided critical assistance during the Hadassah/JWC Great Challah Bake partnership.
- Honorable mention: State Rep. Esther Panitch for her work on the bill to define antisemitism.
The inaugural Rising Maccabee award is being given to high school student Shira Preis. During the summer, Preis works at Camp Dream Street, an overnight camp for kids with disabilities. During the school year, she serves on the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education Student Advisory Council and advocates for digital literacy.
Former honoree Jill Wheatley said, “A Maccabee actively practices Jewish ideals and customs with courage and tenacity. Their impact creates momentum within the community, inspiring others and creating a greater ripple effect.”
JIFLA empowers Jewish Georgians with interest-free loans and financial education. More than 60% of JIFLA borrowers are women, who are empowered to achieve financial independence and succeed both personally and professionally.
