Derek Mosley receives Herb Kohl Service Award

Derek Mosley, director of the Lubar Center for Public Policy Research and Civic Education, was honored with a Herb Kohl Service Award by the Milwaukee Jewish Federation and Herb Kohl Philanthropies.

Named in honor of one of Wisconsin's most respected civic leaders, the Herb Kohl Service Award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to strengthening the Jewish community and enriching the broader fabric of life in Milwaukee and throughout the state. Rooted in the values of tzedakah (charitable giving) and tikkun olam (repairing the world), the award honors those who lead with humility, compassion and a deep sense of responsibility to others.

Mosley has served as director of the Lubar Center since 2023. He's recognized for building bridges across communities through public forums, civic dialogue and educational programs.

"Judge Mosley exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, compassion and purpose," said Miryam Rosenzweig, president and CEO of Milwaukee Jewish Federation. "His ability to bring people together and elevate every voice captures the spirit of this award."

Under his leadership, the center has expanded its programming to include sessions during Black History Month and on unconscious bias, as well as Heritage Dinners in the community, offering participants and attendees an engaging perspective on a variety of issues grounded in current events. A 1995 graduate of Marquette Law School, Mosley for seven years represented the state of Wisconsin in court as an assistant district attorney in Milwaukee County and then served as a judge of the Milwaukee Municipal Court for 20 years.

The award will be presented at the Milwaukee Jewish Federation Economic Forum on Tuesday, June 2, at The Pfister Hotel.