White Rose Tribute

Save the Date
March 27, 2025 | 6:30 pm
Winter Park Events Center

2025 Honoree, Mark Brewer
CEO of the Central Florida Foundation

2025 Honorees:
Mark Brewer and the Central Florida Foundation

The White Rose Tribute Event, now in its 37th year, is a cornerstone of the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida’s mission to build a just and caring community free from antisemitism, prejudice, and bigotry. This annual event celebrates visionary leaders whose actions and commitments reflect the principles of inclusivity, respect, and moral courage exemplified by the White Rose resistance group—a student-led movement that opposed Nazi tyranny during World War II.  

Named in honor of the Center’s founder, the Tess Wise White Rose Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose dedication to justice and equality actively contributes to building a society free from all forms of hate. Honorees embody the Center’s mission by promoting education and fostering unity and understanding in Central Florida.  

Proceeds from the event directly support the Holocaust Center’s educational and memory-keeping initiatives, which use the lessons of the Holocaust to inspire people of all ages to stand against hate, challenge prejudice, and create a more inclusive world. Through this tribute, we honor the past while empowering future generations to shape a brighter future.

Ticketing and Sponsor information coming soon.
Have questions? Please submit form below.

2024 Honorees: Jonathan & Nancy Wolf

Tess Wise White Rose Past Honorees

2024 | Jonathan and Nancy Wolf

2023 | Tony Jenkins, Central FL Market President, Florida Blue 

2022 Dr. Rita Bornstein 

2021 The Massey Family

2020 Mayor Jerry L. Demings
2019 Joanie Holzer Schirm
2018 Jeffrey Miller & Ted Maines
2017 Mayor Buddy Dyer
2016 Valeria & Jim Shapiro
2015 Susan & Gordon Arkin
2014 Harris Rosen
2013 Helen Greenspun
2012 Dr. Richard Lapchick
2011 Dr. Ron Blocker
2010 Governor Bob Graham
2009 Rita and John Lowndes

2008 Alexis and Jim Pugh
2007 Harriett and Hy Lake
2006 Tess and Abe Wise
2005 Marilyn & Sig Goldman
2004 Suntrust Bank, Central Florida
2003 Judy Albertson
2002 Joe R. Lee, CEO, Darden Restaurants
2001 Elie Wiesel, Nobel Laureate
2000 20 yr. Anniversary Celebration – Dreamers
1999 Holland & Knight Charitable Foundation
1998 Survivors
1997 Henri Landwirth/Give Kids The World
1996 Tom Werner, President, Florida Hospital
1995 University of Central Florida
1994 Junior League of Greater Orlando
1993 Linda Chapin, Chairman, Orange County Commission
1992 Scholars
1991 Dr. Schott, Superintendent, Orange County Public Schools
1990 Dr. Gianini, President, Valencia Community College
1989 Charlie Reese, Orlando Sentinel