​
Dr. Mike Steklof, Executive Director
Dr. Mike Steklof serves as the Executive Director of Hillel of Buffalo, where he leads efforts to foster a vibrant, inclusive Jewish community for college students in the Buffalo area. Mike is passionate about promoting pluralism, empowering student leadership, and enriching the Jewish experience on campus. He has been instrumental in advancing Hillel of Buffalo’s mission since joining as Interim Campus Director in April 2024.
​
Before joining Hillel of Buffalo, Mike was the Senior Director of LiNK Jewish Buffalo at the Buffalo Jewish Federation, overseeing engagement and learning initiatives. His work at the Federation helped strengthen the Buffalo Jewish Community and expand engagement opportunities throughout Western New York.
​
Mike holds a Doctorate in Jewish Education and a Master’s in Jewish Instructional Education from Gratz College, as well as a Master’s in Women’s Studies from the University at Albany and has participated in several prestigious professional development programs, including the Merrin Teen Professional Fellowship with the JCC Association, the Created Equal Fellowship with the Shalom Hartman Institute, and the Conflicts of Interest Certificate Program with the iCenter for Israel Education.
​
Beyond his professional pursuits, Mike is deeply involved in Jewish Buffalo, serving as the board secretary for the Buffalo Vaad Hakashrus and the University at Buffalo's (UB) Jewish Faculty, Staff, and Friends Association. He is also an active member of Temple Beth Tzedek and Kehillat Ohr Tzion. When not at work, Mike enjoys long-distance running, cooking savory vegetarian meals, and swimming at UB's Alumni Arena.
Contact: mike@hillelofbuffalo.org
​
Zack Steinberg, Director of Jewish Innovation
A UB alum, Zack moved to New York City after graduation to work as a music educator at Tkiya, where he traveled throughout the city to provide Jewish experiences in parks, temples, and community centers. Returning to Buffalo in 2019, Zack has since served Jewish Buffalo as a program coordinator, song leader, and cantorial soloist across various synagogues and agencies. Outside of work, Zack enjoys walking his neighborhood bike path while listening to sports and religion podcasts, and spending time at home with his girlfriend Sarah and their cats Freddie and Lana.
​
Contact: zack@hillelofbuffalo.org
Ryan Piken, Springboard Fellow
​
Having grown up in Westchester, Ryan’s Jewish journey began her freshman year at the University at Buffalo. Amidst her quest for community, Ryan discovered Hillel, and soon became a student leader. She graduated in May, 2024, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Media Studies. With an unbridled passion for music, Ryan can engage in endless discussions about favorite bands, artists, and concerts. Beyond music, she finds joy in exploring Buffalo, spending time with dogs, hitting the gym, reveling in nature, and indulging in crafting pursuits.
​
v​
Contact: springboard@hillelofbuffalo.org
.jpg)
Lisa Noss, Marketing and Development Manager
​
Based in New Jersey, Lisa supports Hillel of Buffalo, UMass Amherst Hillel, and Hillel at Virginia Tech in their fundraising, donor engagement, and communications efforts. She works closely with each campus team to share the impact of Hillel’s work and help ensure the long-term sustainability of Jewish life on campus. Before joining Hillel, Lisa held marketing roles at several national Jewish nonprofit organizations and founded a chronic pain recovery coaching practice inspired by her own personal journey. When she’s not at work, Lisa enjoys biking, traveling and spending time with her family.
​​
Contact: lnoss@hillel.org
Board of Directors
Officers
Laura Hemlock-Schaeffer - President
Ruth Kleinman-Volunteer Engagement Chair
Dr. Iris Danziger- Immediate Past President
​
Members
Dr. Rose Berkun
Dr. Philip Glick
Shiri Kester
Jessica Lemons
Craig Mondschein
Jennifer Patrick
Howard Rosenhoch
Elyse Skerker-Sigal​
​