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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Zack Steinberg, Director of Engagement
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.
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Contact: engagement@hillelofbuffalo.org
Ryan Piken, Springboard Fellow
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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.
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Contact: springboard@hillelofbuffalo.org
Board of Directors
Officers
Dr. Iris Danziger - President
Laura Hemlock - Vice President
Max Medwin - Treasurer
Noah Rifkin- Secretary
Marc Adler - Immediate Past President
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Members
Rose Berkun
Ori Edgar
Dr. Philip Glick
Dr. Jeffrey Goldberg
Hannah Klein
Ruth Kleinman
Toast Lobel
David Oestreicher
Stephen Yonaty
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