The Jewish Federation of St. Louis will bring together professionals and volunteer leaders from across the community at the Annual JProStL Recognition Luncheon on Wednesday, March 11, celebrating the people and partnerships that buoy Jewish life in St. Louis.

This year’s theme, “Taking Care of Community,” underscores the shared responsibility of Jewish organizations, staff and lay leaders to strengthen the institutions that support communal life. Hosted by JProStL, the luncheon highlights excellence, collaboration and service throughout the local Jewish professional community.

A special recognition will be presented to Scott Biondo, director of the Federation’s Community Security Initiative, along with the Jewish Federation Community Security Team, honoring their dedication to protecting the safety and well-being of the community. Their work has played a critical role in ensuring that Jewish institutions and events across the region remain secure.

The 2026 JProStL Partnership Award will be presented to community leader Jeffrey Cohen, representing Crown Center and the Jewish Community Center. The award recognizes a volunteer leader who exemplifies the strength and impact of the lay-staff partnership that is essential to effective communal leadership.

In addition, nine professionals will be honored for their leadership and contributions to their organizations and to the broader Jewish community. Selected by their peers, this year’s honorees include:

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• Laurie Cohen of Congregation B’nai Amoona and Ron Davis of The J, both receiving Dedication Awards
• Lindsay Eichhorn of Chabad on Campus at Washington University, recipient of the Chesed/Kindness Award
• Julie Gibbs of The J, honored with the Career Achievement Award
• Lauren Lourie of United Hebrew Congregation, recipient of the Educator Award
• Jordan Palmer of the St. Louis Jewish Light, honored with the Visionary Award
• Rabbi Avi and Shani Roberts of Olami St. Louis, recipients of the Young Adult Leader Award
• Mindy Sharp of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, receiving the Pillar Award
• Racheli Staum of Torah Prep School, recipient of the Mentor Award

JProStL, an initiative of Federation, serves as the professional association for staff working throughout the St. Louis Jewish community. Throughout the year, it offers programs designed to foster connections across organizations, strengthen professional skills and address emerging communal trends. All programs are free for staff who work at least 20 hours per week at a St. Louis Jewish organization, school or congregation.

The luncheon will take place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the J’s Staenberg Family Complex, 2 Millstone Campus Dr., with lunch provided by 613 Catering under the supervision of the Vaad Hoeir. Registration, sponsorship opportunities and tribute information are available at JFedSTL.org/JProRecognitionLuncheon.