By Carl Zebrowski
Editor

Vicki Wax got some surprising news in the days leading up to the Jewish Federation Community Celebration and Annual Meeting on June 12. Her family and friends had come together to establish an annual award for a Jewish college student in tribute to her.

The Jewish Student Campus Leadership Award in Honor of Vicki Wax was officially made public at the celebration event. Wax was recognized in front of the crowd and presented with a commemorative glass vase with a brief description of the award on it.

“The Vicki Wax Jewish Student Campus Leadership Award was established to honor and celebrate Vicki Wax, whose exceptional leadership and dedication to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley for more than 50 years have set an inspiring example of Jewish communal engagement,” announced Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of the Jewish Federation. “This award seeks to recognize and commend the next generation of Jewish leaders.”

Beginning in 2026, the award will be presented each year to an outstanding Jewish college student who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in the Jewish community through service on their campus. This individual is committed to advancing Jewish life, promoting Israel, and combating antisemitism on campus and beyond. 

“I’m overwhelmed by the creation of the award and feel extremely blessed,” said Wax. “I’ve had so many mentors leading me through my Jewish journey since arriving in Allentown over 50 years ago, and I hope this will inspire those that follow me.” 

The Federation will seek nominees for the award each year via a notice to the community that will include publication in Hakol. A committee including Wax family members will review all submissions, and the recipient will be announced in Hakol and the award presented at that year’s community celebration and annual meeting. The winner will receive a $500 grant to be used toward a Jewish Federation-approved Israel experience or a relevant national conference.

“I’ve believed for decades that we must create bold and enriching opportunities for Jewish students in their formative years,” Wax said. “I hope this award will be another opportunity to help secure a strong Jewish future.”

To contribute, contact Federation at 610-821-5500.