Jewish Light Publisher/CEO Larry Levin has named the winner of the 2013 Fred A. Goldstein Memorial Service Award, recognizing outstanding professional leaders in the local Jewish community.

Levin became Publisher/CEO of the Light in 2008 and has overseen sweeping changes at the newspaper, which have resulted in stronger financial footing, greatly improved news coverage, enhanced design, technological upgrades,  greatly enhanced online presence, a new subscription model and a new focus on Jewish Light events to build community presence, diversify revenue and connect with audiences in new and innovative ways.

Those changes have resulted in a variety of local and national journalism awards for the newspaper — 16 since 2009 — from the American Jewish Press Association, the National Newspaper Association and the Press Club of Metropolitan St. Louis.

“Larry brings renewed energy, enthusiasm and passion to his work,” said Light Editor Ellen Futterman, who was part of the team that nominated Levin for the award. “He emerges himself in every aspect of the newspaper, without micromanaging. Rather, he takes a logical, patient, methodical approach to change and has not only challenged the status quo, but also has been successful in encouraging creativity and innovation among staff and board members.”

Prior to his work with the Light, Levin’s career included substantial experience in law, business, nonprofits and journalism. As a business executive, Levin was responsible for development of several million square feet of retail real estate. His nonprofit career has comprised board, executive and professional leadership with a variety of organizations, including the Ladue Education Association; National School Foundation Association; Ladue School District Board of Education; Young Audiences of St. Louis; the Trust for Public Land; and Missouri Coalition for the Environment.  He was also an editor at the Riverfront Times. He holds a J.D. from Washington University School of Law and a B.A. in American Studies from Case Western Reserve University.

The Goldstein award has been given annually since 1965; honorees are selected from representatives from the Jewish Federation Board of Directors, the presidents of the Rabbinical Association and Rabbinical Council and past award recipients. The award is given to a staff member of a St. Louis Jewish organization currently working in a direct service, professional or managerial role, who excels in his or her field, has a significant track record over time, has introduced important innovations, and is perceived as a role model by other professionals and volunteers.