About The Shapira Medal

In 2003, The Forbes Funds inaugurated The Frieda Shapira Medal, honoring a lifetime community reformer who, as a social worker for the Children’s Service Bureau, taught neglected and dependent children, and who, as a trustee, served numerous organizations, including The Pittsburgh Foundation, the United Way of Allegheny County, the United Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, and The Forbes Funds. Frieda Shapira was recognized by Pittsburgh Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential Pittsburghers of the 20th Century.

The Frieda Shapira Medal, presented annually to a local nonprofit executive for exemplary leadership, is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated: (1) distinctive and exceptional leadership for one’s organization; (2) accomplishments that advanced the field; and (3) commitment to service beyond one’s own organization.

Our medal recipients stand as exemplars for all people across the Pittsburgh region. Presented by The Forbes Funds in cooperation with The Jewish Healthcare Foundation, The Frieda Shapira Medal includes a $5000 cash prize.

2003: Jim Henry (PDF)

2004: Myrna Zelenitz (PDF)

2005: Father Regis Ryan (PDF)

See the 2005 Shapira Award Recipient, Father Regis Ryan here!