The White Rose Tribute Event

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.


The 37th Annual White Rose Tribute Event

History of The White Rose

The White Rose Award reminds us of the actions of a group of courageous students in Germany during WWII. Calling for non-violent resistance against Hitler and the Nazis, the group consisted of five students in their early twenties led by Hans and Sophie Scholl. They worked day and night to create flyers criticizing Germans who did nothing to combat the tyranny of the Third Reich. The individuals honored with this award by the Holocaust Center are active and vocal members of our community. Like The White Rose, it is their belief that only through participation can we build a better home for all Central Floridians. The values of inclusiveness and respect are central to their efforts.

2025 White Rose Tribute Event

Co - Chairs

Committee

Circle of Valor

Founder, Tess Wise
Alexis & Jim Pugh
Dottie & Dick Appelbaum
Valeria & Jim Shapiro

Circle of Hope

Bickley Wilson
Bruce K. Gould Foundation
Caryn & Mark Israel

Circle of Resilience

AdventHealth
Austin Commercial
Brasfield & Gorrie

Circle of Courage

Tess Wise White Rose 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