Susan Neigher, longtime co-president of National Council of Jewish Women, West Morris Section, has received the prestigious Hannah G. Solomon Award, the highest honor in NCJW. The award is named for the organization’s founding mother, whose leadership motivated others to fight for needed social change over the past 125 years.
Susan Neigher, left, receives congratulations from her daughter Debbie Neigher, on being presented with the Hannah G. Solomon Award (center) for her exemplary work on behalf of the organization and the community. Both Susan and Debbie are life members of NCJW.
Through the years, Susan, a clinical psychologist, has been a key player and enthusiastic participant in many of the organization’s important projects, including the renowned sixth-grade diversity contest, called “What Prejudice Means to Me” (which drew more than 30,000 entries over 18 years, and raised awareness among young people about the blight of prejudice in our society). She has also championed NCJW, West Morris Section’s Back 2 School Store, offering free school clothes and school supplies to youngsters served by Homeless Solutions; worked tirelessly on NCJW’s beautiful quilted Jewish wedding canopy; and made successes of NCJW’s various advocacy initiatives, membership drives, and fund-raisers.
Susan pioneered NCJW, West Morris Section’s participation in the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking, advocating for the rights of people who have been victims of human trafficking and supporting all kinds of initiatives to help these people as they transition from a life of bondage to one of freedom.
The bust of Hannah G. Solomon states:
To Susan Neigher
Whose leadership, advocacy & grace exemplify
the spirit of Hannah G. Solomon
With love and gratitude
National Council of Jewish Women
West Morris Section
June 2, 2019
Praise for Susan also came from a number of prominent individuals and organizations. Among them:
From Senator Robert Menendez: The pursuit of justice has served as the resonating call of action for the NCJW. As co-founder and co-president for over a decade, it has been your leadership, passion, and commitment to helping the less fortunate that continues to advance the legacy of service established by founder Hannah G. Solomon.
From Governor Philip Murphy: This is a tremendous honor bestowed only on those individuals who champion the core ideas of NCJW, passionately advocate for social justice, improve the quality of life for women, children and families, as well as safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. We commend your hard work and dedication while serving the needs of our communities.
From the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders: Susan has been a faithful and dedicated steward of NCJW, West Morris Section, and an exemplary leader.
From the New Jersey Coalition on Human Trafficking: The far-reaching influence and impact of the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking is directly linked to your dedication and determination to extend freedom and liberty to men and women held captive to the atrocities of modern-day slavery. For the past seven years, the Coalition has been dependent on your steadfast leadership, innovative ideas, and lifetime of experience to strengthen its work.
From the Morris County Psychological Association: Dr. Neigher conveys spirit and humanity in all her endeavors. As a psychologist, she has helped children, adolescents and women become empowered since 1972. She has been an outstanding mentor to many, inspiring others in the field of psychology and in our community.