Reflecting prophetic traditions of courage and humility, the hallmarks of all great leaders, these individuals will be recognized for their efforts to create a better world.

“Standing Up for Respect for All” Award

Sponsored by the Pond Family in recognition of individuals who have stood up for interreligious and intercultural respect in the face of bigotry.

Ben Daniel is a Presbyterian minister and author. His first book, Neighbor: Christian Encounters with “Illegal” Immigration, addresses the American fear of undocumented migration. The book was named 2011 religion book of the year by ForeWord Reviews, a journal that highlights and reviews books from small and independent publishers. His second book The Search for Truth About Islam: A Christian Pastor Separates Fact from Fiction addresses the misinformation and fear that drives much of the American conversation about Islam. Ben Daniel is a Huffington Post blogger, and provides commentary for the Perspectives program on KQED radio. His writings have been translated into four languages and have been published by a variety of local, regional, national, and international print media. His writings have also appeared on Beliefnet.com, TheRevealer.com, and on the websites of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches and the United Nations’ mission to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since 1997, Ben has served as pastor of Foothill Presbyterian Church in San José. In March he will begin work as Pastor of the Montclair Presbyterian Church in Oakland. He is a graduate of Westmont College and of Princeton Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Anne have three school-aged children.

“Unsung Hero of Community Service” Award

Sponsored by the Raghib Family in recognition of individuals who have notably served the community out of the limelight and with humility.

Samina Sundas is the founder and Executive Director of American Muslim Voice (AMV). AMV’s mission is to foster friendship among all Americans by bridging cultural and religious gaps and working to protect civil liberties and constitutional rights for all. Since 9/11 Samina has worked tirelessly to promote peace and justice for all Americans. Her affiliations include: Santa Clara County Human Relations Commissioner; Steering Committee member for Multifaith Voices For Peace & Justice, Bay Area and Olive Branch Interfaith Peace Partnership; Advisory Board member of SEMAH; and Board member of the Silicon Valley Inter-Religious Council. She is also the recipient of many awards, including the Jefferson Award, which also recognizes “unsung heroes” for community service. As the person who nominated her said, “. . . She is one of the hardest-working bridge-builders I’ve ever met. Since September 11th she has been a tireless champion of interfaith dialogue and friendship, plus, when confronted by injustices faced by any members of our community, she is the first one to jump into action. . . . Samina has become one of the most visible examples of living out the Islamic principles of peace, friendship, and justice in the Bay Area and across the nation.”