Whitman parent Sandra (Sandy) Lederman lost her 11-month battle to liver cancer Feb. 7. She was 51.

Lederman was a prominent figure in the community, known specifically for her contributions to the music department. She volunteered hundreds of hours to the music program, not only as a talented piano accompanist, but also as a music festival coordinator and substitute teacher. She is survived by her husband, Doug, and children, Josh (‘11) and Abigail (‘13).

Among her many passions, Lederman loved to run and was very active. She also directed a children’s choir at Temple Sinai and volunteered her time to play piano for numerous middle school choirs.

Choral director Jeff Davidson noted how much time Lederman put in to help each individual student with their music.

“She really cared about the kids,” he said. “She was a real genuine spirit and had a wonderful heart.”

Senior Hannah Chenok agreed, calling Lederman “one of the most loving people” she had ever met.

“She was constantly smiling, even when she came to school this year while she was sick,” Chenok said.

Lederman had a long-lasting impact on students and staff alike. Seniors Oliver Ades and Harrison Guh were two students who felt a strong emotional attachment.

“Sandy Lederman made it her business to connect with people,” Ades said. “She was a friend to everyone she met, and she had a way of always making everyone feel special. Her overwhelming generosity and love for others touched countless people. Her gift to us was how she inspired everyone she taught, and that gift will endure in all of us.”

Guh, who knew Lederman for for seven years, was inspired by her.

“Her influence on me as a musician and teenager will stick with me forever,” he said.

Lederman’s funeral will be held today at Temple Sinai at 10:30 a.m.