Ben Sadowski Award of Merit

Created by UJA Federation in 1960, this prestigious award acknowledges a volunteer with outstanding leadership qualities and years of involvement in the Jewish and general communities. With his unwavering commitment to people, Ben Sadowski z”l, the first President of the United Jewish Welfare Fund (predecessor to UJA Federation), embodied the definition of a natural leader. This award is his legacy to the Jewish community.

David Koschitzky

David Koschitzky is Chairman, World Board of Trustees, Keren Hayesod-UIA and an executive member of the Board of Governors of The Jewish Agency. A past Chair of the Board and past Campaign Chair of UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, as well as past Chair of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, David has also held senior lay positions with Chicago Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign and their Board of Directors. Additionally, he is a past President of Day Schools in Toronto and Chicago.

Co-Chair and CEO North America of IKO, a global leader in the manufacturing and supply of roofing materials, David has an engineering degree from the University of Toronto and an MBA from the University of Chicago. He was a member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO) - the world’s premier network for chief executives and business leaders - for many years.

David is married to Sarena, and together they have five children, a son in law and daughter in law, and three grandchildren.

“I have always felt it not only a responsibility, but a privilege, to be involved in community service in whatever way I can. To be even considered for an award named for a leader like Ben Sadowski is a tremendous honour. To understand that I am joining a list of leaders like those who are previous recipients of this award is truly humbling. Thank you.”