Sam Miller Goodness Award: Margaret W. Wong

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Margaret W. Wong Honored with the Sam Miller Goodness Award

Ms. Margaret W. Wong received the Sam Miller Goodness Award at the Values-in-Action Foundation’s 25th Annual Celebration of Goodness Luncheon, held Monday, December 8th, at Landerhaven in Mayfield Heights. The event, being part of the Kindland Movement, highlights individuals and organizations who demonstrate exceptional kindness, leadership, and service.
(Outbound link: Values-in-Action Foundation website)

Recognizing Leadership, Philanthropy, and Immigration Advocacy

This year, Ms. Wong earned the honor not only for her decades of work helping people immigrate to the United States, but also for her longstanding commitment to philanthropic efforts across Northeast Ohio. Her contributions continue to support families, strengthen communities, and inspire future leaders—core qualities celebrated through the Sam Miller Goodness Award.

Because a court case had been unexpectedly extended, Ms. Wong was prevented from attending in person. However, her close friend, Mr. Alex Machaskee, accepted the award on her behalf. In his remarks, he stated, “Margaret is the epitome of the American dream—a shining example of an immigrant’s contribution to this country.” With his efficacious wording, he was able to capture the spirit of the award and highlight Ms. Wong’s remarkable journey.

Honoring Community Leaders Who Make a Difference

Other recipients of the Sam Miller Goodness Award included:

  • Mr. Michael Baston, President of Cuyahoga Community College

  • Dr. Cliff Megerian, CEO of University Hospitals

  • The National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland

In addition, the Arnold R. Pinkney Award for Civic Leadership went to Mr. Randy McShepard, Vice President of Public Affairs and Chief Talent Officer at RPM International.

The Kindland “Ritter Way” Award, which honors first responders, recognized three courageous Lorain police officers—Peter Gale, Brent Bayne, and Philip Wagner (posthumously)—who were critically injured during an ambush.

Celebrating Goodness and the Legacy of Sam Miller

During the ceremony, Mr. Stuart Muszynski, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of Values-in-Action, emphasized the importance of promoting kindness. “We’re promoting goodness and kindness in this country, state, and community. And we do it through the people who are doing goodness and kindness,” he said, capturing the heart of the afternoon’s message.

The Sam Miller Goodness Award honors the late Sam Miller, a renowned Cleveland businessman and philanthropist. The Catholic Community Foundation describes him as someone who “worked tirelessly to help others” and played a key role in fostering cooperation between the Jewish and Christian communities.

A Message for Today: Hope, Compassion, and Unity

Several speakers delivered powerful reflections, including Mr. Baston, who acknowledged the challenges facing society and encouraged the audience to choose compassion and hope over fear and division. His message aligned strongly with the mission of the Kindland Movement and the spirit behind recognizing leaders like Margaret W. Wong.