In 1980, he established Moriah Films, the SWC’s film division, serving as executive producer. Rabbi Hier is the only Rabbi to be a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and has won two Academy Awards®. A voting member since 1982, he has cultivated personal relationships with many Hollywood stars and industry leaders.

Rabbi Hier made history as the first Orthodox rabbi to deliver the invocation at a U.S. Presidential inauguration, having done so at President Donald Trump’s first inauguration. He is also the first American chosen by the Israeli government to light the Torch of Remembrance on Israel’s Independence Day and holds two honorary Ph.D. degrees. He is a board member of The Genesis Prize Foundation, which awards the prestigious Genesis Prize, often referred to as the Jewish Nobel, to individuals who achieve distinction in their fields.

Recognized for his influence, Rabbi Hier was named the most influential Rabbi in America by Newsweek in both 2007 and 2008. He has been honored with the Legion of Honor by President François Mitterrand of France and received the John Harvard Award from Harvard University in 2016. A pioneer in interfaith dialogue, he has engaged with Arab leaders, including King Hussein and King Abdullah of Jordan, as well as the rulers of Bahrain, the UAE, and Dubai. He has met with three Popes at the Vatican on five occasions.

Malka Hier, holding a master’s degree in urban planning, has been a vital force alongside Rabbi Hier. She initiated the direct mail program at the SWC and played an essential motherly role for the boys at YULA during its early years, welcoming them into their home. As the rebbetzin at Shaarey Tzedek Congregation, Malki engaged in important kiruv work.

Together, Rabbi and Malki have traveled around the world, championing the mission of the Simon Wiesenthal Center and advocating for tolerance and understanding.

The enduring partnership of Rabbi Marvin and Malka Hier epitomizes a dedication to education, interfaith dialogue, and community building, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives and institutions.