Seven of the 18 Cleveland Jewish News (CJN) Difference Makers are Leadership Cleveland alumni:
- Steven S. Kaufman (LC 1999)
 - Laura Kleinman (2013)
 - Earl Lieken (LC 1982)
 - Judy Payne (LC 2020)
 - Eileen Saffran (LC 2003)
 - Michael Stovsky (LC 2010)
 - Jill Zimon (LC 2022)
 
According to the announcement from CJN, the 2023 Difference Makers, “embody the spirit of tikkun olam – the Jewish concept of repairing the world. They have not only embraced this concept but have lived it through their actions and dedication to improving the lives of others.”
