Star of David Menorah Award Honoree Jeffrey Ganz

Jeffrey was born and raised in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn to Harriet & Murray Ganz. He attended elementary school there. Just prior to his 13th birthday the family moved to the Georgetowne section of Brooklyn which was a community of new homes. Upon being one of the first full 4 year graduates of South Shore High School, he attended Brooklyn College studying Business Management. Unfortunately, his mother passed away suddenly at a young age. After a short leave from school he continued his studies, and then his father took ill with leukemia. Having to transport his father twice a week to Sloan Kettering for treatments and checkups, he was forced to take a leave of studies again to care for him and the business he owned. Eight months into his illness his father passed away just three years after his mother. Having to petition the courts to become legal guardian of his younger sister Helene, he took a job with a travel agency in Canarsie. After establishing himself in the position, he returned to Pace University at night to complete his education.

In 1980 he met the love of his life, Shariann, on an arranged blind date. Together they purchased a retail confectionary and gift shop in Bensonhurst. Prior to the arrival of their first son Matthew he took a position with Liberty Travel where he worked for 26 years. He was a Branch Manager for 25 of those 26 years managing locations in Brooklyn and Staten Island. He left that position in 2009. After a brief stint with Raymour and Flanigan furniture it was discovered he had cancer. Having to take a year off to receive treatment and recover he explored his options. Upon returning to the workforce, he sought a position with the NYC Department of Education. Teaching was always a calling he felt he had. Currently he works at P.S. 78 in the Stapleton section of Staten Island. He is dedicated to his students at school trying to instill valuable life lessons.

Jeff and Shariann have been married for 36 years. He credits his wife with instilling the love of temple and being part of a temple community. Both he and Shariann and their two sons, Matthew, 33 and, Bryan, 28 have been members of Temple Israel Reform Congregation for 25 years. He has held the position there of Board of Trustee member, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, President of the Temple and Brotherhood President. Currently, he is Treasurer and co- chair of the Ritual Committee.

Without the support of his loving family, Jeff feels he could not accomplish all the he undertakes.

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