Pillars Awards

The Sidney Albert Albany Jewish Community Center warmly invites you to be part of a special celebration honoring leaders whose generosity, dedication, and compassion have strengthened our community.

At the 26th Annual Pillars of the Community Awards, we will proudly recognize Robert Kivort, Scott and Ellen Hollander, and Garry and Jane Sanders—individuals whose commitment to the greater Jewish community embodies the core values of the Pillars: learning, service, and acts of kindness.

The celebration will take place on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Albany JCC. Each year, more than 200 local business leaders, community partners, friends, family members, and JCC staff gather for this meaningful and inspiring event, and we hope you can join use this year. Your participation is a meaningful way to honor our distinguished recipients while also supporting the vital work of the JCC, directly supporting the programs, experiences, and community connections that make our organization a vibrant and welcoming place for all.

Robert Kivort

Pillars of the Commuity Award

Rob Kivort is President of Kivort Steel and a lifelong resident of New York’s Capital Region. He grew up in Schenectady and has lived in Albany for more than 30 years. Rob has been an active member of Congregation Beth Emeth for nearly two ...read more

Scott and Ellen Hollander

Pillars of the Community Award

Scott and Ellen Hollander came to the Capital District after graduating from Cornell University in 1973. Ellen continued her studies at the University at Albany’s School of Public Affairs, while Scott began his career at GardenWay Manufacturing ...read nore

Garry and Jane Sanders

Pillars of the Community Award

Jane and Garry Sanders were both raised in the Capital District — Jane in Albany and Garry in Saratoga Springs — and remain deeply connected to the region’s Jewish community through lifelong leadership and service...read more