Chronicle introduces 18 Difference Makers

Do you know someone who is making invaluable contributions to the betterment of the Jewish community? Maybe you’re that person.

The Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle introduces “18 Difference Makers,” a spotlight on 18 individuals who embody tikkun olam — repair of the world — and encourage it among others.

The inaugural recognition is being created to recognize those who are making a difference in southwestern Pennsylvania.

The community is encouraged to submit nominations. Honorees will be notified by June 26 and will be announced on August 14.

“We are blessed to live in a community filled with a plethora of talented, giving and gifted individuals who make invaluable contributions to our society,” said James Busis, the Chronicle’s publisher and CEO.

“We take great pride in celebrating 18 of these individuals as nominated by our own community, and are pleased to recognize them for the impact they are making on Jewish Pittsburgh.”

Nominees must be at least 18 years old by April 26, 2026, and have ties to southwestern Pennsylvania.

Nominees should be successful in making a difference in southwestern Pennsylvania’s Jewish community; have taken an active role in the community, whether through a nonprofit organization, volunteer group or professional endeavor; and demonstrate “mensch-like” characteristics, those of honor and integrity.

Nominees need not be Jewish, but the nominee’s efforts must help better southwestern Pennsylvania’s Jewish community.

Nominations must be received by April 26, 2026, at midnight. Late nominations will not be considered.

To nominate a person, email newsdesk@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org, and write “Difference Makers” in the subject line. Each nominee’s application should include a maximum of 300 words to explain why that person is a difference maker.

Winners will be featured in the Chronicle in print and online.

For opportunities to recognize the honorees and other information, please contact Amy Weiss, account executive, at 412-613-0697 or aweiss@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.

FAQs

What are the Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle’s 18 Difference Makers awards?

The Chronicle created the 18 Difference Makers awards to honor and celebrate individuals making invaluable contributions for the betterment of our Jewish community. Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Jewish community is known the world over for its leadership, but what some may not realize is that the next generation of leaders is already here. The future is now, and the Chronicle believes it’s incredibly important to recognize those who embody tikkun olam (repairing the world) — a tenet of Judaism — and encourage it among others.

What are the qualifications?

Qualified nominees must be 18 years of age as of April 26, 2026, and have ties to southwestern Pennsylvania. A panel of judges will consider the following: a nominee’s success in making a difference in southwestern Pennsylvania’s Jewish community; active involvement in the community, be it through nonprofit organizations, volunteer groups or professional endeavors; and a nominee’s “mensch-like” characteristics, including, of course, honor and integrity. Nominees do not need to be Jewish, however, their efforts to better the Jewish community will play a central role in the judges’ decision.

When do nominations open?

Nominations for the 2026 Chronicle Difference Makers open Friday, March 20, 2026.

How can I nominate someone?

Nominations can be submitted at newsdesk@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.

When is the deadline for nominations?

The nomination deadline is 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Any nominations received after that date will not be considered.

Can I just call you with the name of the person I’d like to nominate?

Only nominations submitted online via email will be accepted.

I want to nominate someone, but can I remain anonymous?

Nominator information will not be shared, but the Chronicle still needs to know who is making the nomination.

Can I nominate myself?

Yes. You can nominate anyone, including yourself.

Can I submit a resume, extended biography or other additional information?

The selection committee is looking for 300 words of concise information to describe how candidates are making a difference in southwestern Pennsylvania’s Jewish community. Additional information will come from selection committee research and other sources during the selection process, including a nominee’s LinkedIn and other social media pages.

How will the Chronicle18 Difference Makers be selected?

A panel of judges from the Chronicle leadership team and select members of the community will comprise the selection committee that chooses the Chronicle18 Difference Makers. The committee’s selections will be based on the available nominating criteria as outlined above.

Can I call or email during the selection process for an update on my nominee?

Status updates will not be provided during the selection process.

How will I know whether I have been chosen or whether the person I nominated has been chosen? What can I expect if I am chosen?

All Chronicle 18 Difference Makers will be notified of their selection in June 2026. PJC