Past-President Amy Bush Receives Prestigious Lion of Judah Award

Amy Bush at the 2025 International Lion of Judah Conference in Atlanta.

Mazel tov to Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh Trustee and Past-President Amy Bush, who received the The Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland (KWF) Award at the International Lion of Judah Conference in Atlanta earlier this week.

Amy took the opportunity to reflect on her journey to becoming a Lion:

“[Fellow 2025 KWF Award Recipient] Dorothy Weiser was my mother Eileen Schwartz’s (z”l) best friend since childhood. Dorothy inspired my mother to become a Lion in 1999. A year later, my mother inspired me to do the same. Together, we endowed our pins, leaving an everlasting legacy to the Raleigh community. It only takes one woman.”

Board president Craig Meddin said of Amy:

“Amy’s dedication, drive, and heart are truly unparalleled. As a fellow member of the Board of Trustees, I’ve had the privilege to witness her tireless work and unwavering commitment firsthand. Receiving the KWF Award is a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding contributions and the impact she continues to make. Amy inspires us all to aim higher and to relentlessly own our communal responsibilities.”

Amy with Dorothy Weiser, fellow 2025 award recipient

Inspired by the principles of tzedakah (charity) and tikkun olam (repairing the world), Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh’s Women’s Philanthropy aims to inspire and empower women of all ages. Women philanthropists who join the Lion of Judah make a minimum annual gift of $5,000, demonstrating their deep commitment to the Jewish community’s continuity, connectivity, and thriving future.

The Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, given every two years by Jewish Federations of North America, honors a Lion of Judah who exemplifies the highest standards in philanthropy and volunteerism. Recipients of this award are recognized for their unwavering dedication to social justice, aiding the vulnerable, and promoting Jewish identity for future generations. They are women who have gone above and beyond for their community.

Amy Bush’s recognition with this award is a testament to her tireless efforts and contributions. As a Kipnis-Wilson/ Friedland honoree, she joins a distinguished group of women who are celebrated as fierce defenders of the disadvantaged and as powerhouses in promoting a strong Jewish future.