By Seth J. Katzen, President and CEO of Jewish Federation of Delaware
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Few honors in the Jewish philanthropic world carry the prestige and significance of the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland (KWF) Award. Presented by Jewish Federations of North America’s National Women’s Philanthropy, the award recognizes exceptional women whose leadership, generosity, and vision ave strengthened Jewish communities and inspired future generations.
This year, Jewish Federation of Delaware is proud to celebrate one of our own.
Michelle Silberglied has been selected as Delaware’s 2027 Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award recipient and will be honored alongside approximately 80 distinguished women from across North America at the International Lion of Judah Conference in Austin Texas, in February 2027.
For those who know Michelle, the recognition comes as no surprise.
A respected communal leader, Michelle currently serves as President of Congregation Beth Shalom and has played a vital role in shaping Jewish life throughout Delaware for decades. Her leadership has touched nearly every corner of our community. She serves on the Jewish Federation of Delaware Board of Directors and has been a member of its Executive Committee. She chairs Lion Behind the Pin for Women’s Philanthropy, helping women create enduring philanthropic legacies, and she was the visionary founder and chair of Dignity Grows—an initiative dedicated to providing menstrual and personal hygiene products to those experiencing poverty and insecurity. Michelle previously served as the Siegel JCC Board President, where her passion for community-building helped strengthen one of Delaware’s most important Jewish institutions.
Her commitment extends nationally as well; Michelle serves on the National Women’s Philanthropy Board.
Yet titles alone do not capture the essence of Michelle’s leadership. What distinguishes her is an unwavering ability to bring people together. Whether working through the Federation, the JCC, or her synagogue, she consistently focuses on creating opportunities for connection, engagement, and meaningful participation in Jewish life. She believes that strong communities are built when people feel welcomed, valued, and inspired to contribute.
That spirit aligns perfectly with the values embodied by the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award. Recipients are recognized not only for their philanthropic commitment, but also for their ability to inspire others, nurture new leaders, and demonstrate a lifelong dedication to tzedakah and tikkun olam.
Michelle exemplifies those ideals.
As a longtime Lion of Judah, she has demonstrated a deep and enduring commitment to Jewish philanthropy. Her leadership has created pathways for other women to become involved, discover their own capacity for impact, and embrace the responsibility of sustaining Jewish communal life for future generations.
Reflecting on what the Lion of Judah means to her, Michelle speaks not about recognition, but about responsibility and legacy.
“Being a Lion of Judah is an important part of my Jewish journey. It represents my commitment to the Delaware Jewish community and reflects the values I hope to pass on to my family.
“Whether I am volunteering at the JCC, the Jewish Federation, or my synagogue, my goal is always the same: to engage others, build connections, and inspire people to become involved in Jewish life. Wearing my Lion of Judah pin is a visible reminder of the pride I feel in supporting our community and helping to ensure a vibrant Jewish future.”
Her vision extends well beyond the present generation.
As the mother of three sons, Michelle hopes the values represented by the Lion of Judah will continue through her family for years to come.
“I hope that one day my daughters-in-law and granddaughters will choose to wear the Lion of Judah pin with the same pride, purpose, and devotion to Jewish life. Continuing this legacy of philanthropy and leadership across generations would be one of my greatest joys.”
This commitment to building a vibrant Jewish future is reflected in everything Michelle does. Whether mentoring emerging leaders, strengthening institutions, championing dignity for vulnerable individuals, or helping donors transform generosity into lasting impact, she leads with purpose, humility, and heart.
The Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award recognizes women who inspire others to dream bigger, give more deeply, and lead more courageously. Through her service, vision, and dedication to the Jewish people, Michelle Silberglied has done precisely that.
Jewish Federation of Delaware proudly congratulates Michelle on this well-deserved honor and celebrates the remarkable example she continues to set for our community.
Mazal tov, Michelle, on this extraordinary recognition.
May your leadership continue to inspire generations to come.
