by Sandy Sloan
On April 20th the staff of The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art attended the distinguished Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits ONE (Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence) Awards dinner at Tulsa’s Southern Hills Country Club. The lavish affair was attended by outstanding leaders in the Oklahoma nonprofit industry. Out of almost 19,000 nonprofits statewide, only 21 were named finalists, with 3 organizations chosen in the Education Category. Alongside The Museum were the Great Plains Literary Council and The STEAM Engine. The Education Category is sponsored by Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies and Glenna and Richard Tanenbaum.
“I was giddy with excitement when they came to the education category,” states Tracey Herst-Woods, Deputy Director of SMMJA. “I was so impressed learning about the two other organizations in the education category, I went to clap for one of the other nonprofits when I realized they announced we were the winner—what a surreal experience.” Museum staff Sofia Thornblad, Chief Curator and Director of Holocaust Education and Greg Falconetti, Chief Archivist & Registrar and Director of Exhibit and Library Services were also in attendance, along with JFT Interim Director Wendy Thomas, to receive the award.
This event is unique in many ways. The Museum team was able to meet so many Oklahoma leaders in the nonprofit sector alongside community leaders, philanthropic organizations and talk with colleagues about what they are currently working on. The atmosphere was light and full of appreciation for every organization in the room. We were seated with The Center, For individuals with Physical Challenges. Their history is part of Jewish History in Oklahoma. The Center was established in 1957 by The National Council of Jewish Women in Tulsa to provide organized social, cultural and recreational opportunities for people with physical disabilities, specifically mobility, dexterity and sensory impairments. “What a meaning opportunity to be seated together,” exclaims Herst-Woods.
“We are so honored to be recognized for this respected award, validating our mission to foster community awareness and education about Jewish culture and history and the importance of tolerance,” continues Herst-Woods. “The unexpected funds will help us bring in new visitors, increasing our impact educating about Jewish history and culture.”
This year’s grants bring the total awards for Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence to more than $2 million to nonprofit organizations in our state. Nonprofits may use the prize money as they see fit to aid current programs or make transformational changes for their organizations. “This award means that the Museum’s mission of preserving and promoting Jewish heritage, culture, history and community through art and education truly matters. We will continue to strive to be the best Museum and educational center we can,” concludes Herst-Woods.
