Steward’s Plumbing owners, Marina Efroymson and Eric Maxon, have been chosen to receive the prestigious Harold B. Albert Jewish Community Service Award on Thursday, August 15 at the Event Center at Sandia Golf Club in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Early Advocates for Community Building
A force for good throughout the community and the world, the couple has spent decades committed to service and philanthropy. Prior to the Ronald Gardenswartz Jewish Community Center (JCC), Marina and Eric were among the original supporters of JCC Without Walls (WOW), which aided in connecting community members of all backgrounds. Marina ran programming as part of JCC WOW.
Marina Efroymson: A Beacon of Support and Education
After moving to New Mexico in 1993, Marina played a pivotal role in helping Eastern European Jews, Baha’is, and Muslims find their footing in a new country as she worked as a resettlement coordinator for Jewish Family Services. Her efforts assisted individuals and families in securing housing, employment, and access to language classes, helping them build new lives in the United States.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Mexico, Marina has extensive experience in education; however, her passion for education extends beyond her professional role. Currently, she volunteers with Junior Achievement, where she travels to various schools to speak about financial literacy and the importance of philanthropy to students. Marina’s dedication to education is evident in her involvement at B’nai Israel, where she was affectionately known as the “Challah Lady” during her son’s school years.
Marina’s active participation with Chabad of New Mexico further highlights her commitment. From donating flowers for services and holidays to being a key volunteer in developing the JCC’s Community Garden, her contributions have enriched the spiritual and physical environment of the community.
Eric Maxon: A Leader and Mentor
Eric Maxon’s influence within the Jewish community is equally significant. For 30 years, he has been a guiding force as a BBYO advisor, helping to lead the pluralistic teen movement. Eric has taken two trips to Israel with BBYO, furthering the organization’s mission of providing meaningful Jewish experiences to teens worldwide. His exemplary service earned him the National Advisor of the Year award as well as multiple regional Advisor of the Year awards, a recognition of his impact and commitment.
Extending his leadership beyond BBYO, Eric has served as the board president of the JCC and a board member of Shalom House, roles that have allowed him to shape the strategic direction and impact of these organizations.
His professional career also reflects his leadership abilities with various positions that have allowed him to influence and inspire others, including his membership of the North American Backflow Association board, CNM HVAC/Plumbing Advisory Committee, and service as a trustee for Quality Service Contractors and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) national boards. Eric has earned an Associate Degree from Central Community College of New Mexico and several mechanical licenses from CID.
A Shared Commitment to Community
Together, Marina and Eric are not only community leaders but also successful business owners. They own and operate Steward’s Plumbing, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their business endeavors are guided by the same principles of service and excellence that define their community work.
A Well-Deserved Honor
Leaving a lasting imprint on the New Mexico Jewish Community, the Harold B. Albert Jewish Community Service Award is a fitting recognition for Marina and Eric. In honoring the two, we celebrate not just their past achievements, but also the ongoing impact of their work. Their story is a powerful reminder of the difference that dedicated individuals can make in their communities, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Click here to learn more about the New Mexico Humanitarian Awards.