Difference Makers
The Anne Frank Tree Project is dedicated to acknowledging students and community members who voluntarily dedicate their time and talents in the spirit of understanding, equity, and social justice, while fostering a broader commitment to giving back and supporting the community.
Each year, we honor one student and one community member (or group) at our annual Difference Maker Dinner.
2026 Difference Makers’ Night: Understanding Immigration Today: The Rule of Law and the Reality on the Ground
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our annual Difference Makers’ Night. From the community dinner and tree site tour to the Difference Makers’ Awards and presentation by distinguished immigration lawyer Steve Yale-Loehr, it was an evening filled with community, conversation, and connection.
Meet our 2026 Difference Makers
Past Difference Makers’ Honorees
2026
Community Member: Becky Davis
Student: Paul Hayden
2026 Difference Makers news article
2025
Community Member: Lili MacCormick
Student: David Hayden
2025 Difference Makers’ Night news article
2024
Community Member(s): Michele and Scott Shaw
Student: Celeste Herrera
2024 Difference Makers’ Night details
2023
Community Member: Trudy Buxenbaum
Student(s): Katie Turek & Finn Turner
2019:
Community Member(s): Tom and Maralee Gunderson
Student: Catherine Kopp
2018:
Community Member: Andy Simkin
Student: Brittney Meade
2017:
Community Member(s): Richard and Kathy Burns
Student: Jesse Platt
2016:
Community Member(s): Jane and Paul Simkin
Student: Sydney Hasenjager
2015:
Community Member: Mary Ferro
Student: Emily Fedrizzi
2014:
Community Member: Debbie Patrick
Student: Thomas Stiadle
2025 Difference Maker Award Recipients
L-R: Becky Davis and Paul Hayden