10/24/2025
Scott Garson Receives Prestigious Gries Family Award
Scott Garson accepts the Gries Family Award from Peggy Gries Wager, member of the Gries Family Award selection committee.
Award recognizes individual’s impact on Cleveland communities
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland announced that Scott Garson is the 2025 recipient of the Gries Family Award in recognition of his lasting impact in Cleveland’s Jewish and general communities. For more than 25 years, the Gries Family Award has honored individuals who have demonstrated extensive top leadership in Federation and other local Jewish organization activities, as well as significant leadership in Greater Cleveland’s general community. Garson was presented the award at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland Board of Trustees meeting on October 20.
“I have always believed that the strength of our Jewish community is deeply tied to the strength of our greater Cleveland community,” Garson said. “When we build connections between the two—rooted in shared purpose, sustainability, and compassion—we create a brighter future for everyone. Thank you for bestowing upon me the most flattering of honors.”
Garson has been actively involved with the Federation for more than 30 years, serving in leadership roles including board member, community relations committee vice chair, and sustainability roundtable co-chair.
Beyond the Federation, Garson is the founding board chair of Goods Bank NEO, an organization that has provided millions of dollars in essential goods to nonprofits while advancing environmental sustainability. He also serves as a board member of the Association of African American Cultural Garden, a strategic consultant for Rust Belt Riders, and a member of the City Club of Cleveland and the Shaker-Lee Development Fund Advisory Board. Garson is a past board chair of the Shaker Heights Development Corporation.
Within the Jewish community, Garson is a past board chair of the Cleveland Hillel Foundation, a member of the Wexner Heritage Foundation Climate Change Cohort, and part of Congregation Mishkan Or’s Green Team.
“It is clear from Scott’s many accomplishments that he takes on projects he’s truly passionate about — and sees them through with determination and purpose,” said Peggy Gries Wager, member of the Gries Family Award selection committee, who presented Garson with the award. “He has a remarkable ability to identify challenges, bring people together, and develop creative, collaborative solutions. It is my honor to present the 2025 Gries Family Award for community leadership to Scott.”
The Gries family was one of the first Jewish families to settle in Cleveland. The Gries Family Award recipient receives a handcrafted sculpture and includes a donation to a charitable cause chosen by the recipient. Garson designated his donation to the Cleveland Hillel Foundation and Goods Bank NEO.
