Temple Sinai Rabbi Receives 2017 Humanitarian Award

SANDY SPRINGS, GA -- The city of Sandy Springs awarded its Humanitarian Award to a prominent member of the community during its annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration.

This year's recipient of the award, which recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in the area of community service, was bestowed upon Rabbi Ron Segal, senior rabbi of Temple Sinai.

Rabbi Segal has served as senior rabbi of Temple Sinai since 2006, beginning at the synagogue as associate rabbi in 1996. In addition, Rabbi Segal was directly involved with the establishment of the Sandy Springs Community Assistance Center, Second Helpings: Atlanta, and Family Promise of North Fulton/Dekalb. His personal service to the underprivileged and disadvantaged is amplified by his use of the pulpit to raise awareness of great challenges in the community and to mobilize the congregation to action.

Rabbi Segal is committed to building bridges of faith and friendship the interfaith community by remaining a committee member of the Sandy Springs Interfaith Clergy Association – an organization he founded and chaired for many years. He is the senior member of the clergy in Sandy Springs and is routinely called upon for guidance by both Jewish and non-Jewish clergy. He has been nationally recognized through his selection as one of only several Executive Board members of the Central Conference of American Rabbis.

Like Dr. King, Rabbi Segal is an inspiring spiritual leader whose thoughtful and compelling speeches and presentations motivate others from complacency. Rabbi Ron Segal and his wife Jill are the proud parents of two sons.

The Humanitarian Award was created as a tribute to Dr. King, known as a strong advocate for community services. The community submits nominations, with a volunteer committee reviewing submissions and selecting the honoree.

The King Celebration was held at Sandy Springs City Hall. Past recipients include Tillie O’Neal Kyles (2016), Betty and Phil Klein (2015), Hugo Mullins (2014), Felix Lora (2013) and Tamara Carrera (2012).

Photo: Mayor Rusty Paul, right, presents the 2017 Humanitarian Award to Rabbi Sega. Credit: city of Sandy Springs