Benjamin Shovers

About Benjamin Shovers

As a Jewish communal professional overseeing the allocations process of a $60+ million grant that has funded over 120 Community Security Initiatives across the United States and Canada, I enjoy working in complex environments, and I thrive when I can coordinate with teammates across multiple departments to advance the mission of my organization. I think programs succeed and institutions advance when team members from different subject areas frequently collaborate and utilize their collective core competencies to attack issues head-on, together.Nonprofit organizations are at their best when professionals and lay leaders are united, which is why I have dedicated much of my career to supporting volunteer committees and investing in professional-lay engagements. Whether answering questions for senior volunteer leaders, presenting to boards of directors, or leading lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill for aspiring young leaders and major donors, I pride myself on my ability to foster strong relationships with leaders of all backgrounds and demographics.I believe that being well rounded is one of the best qualities a person can have. To truly understand an issue, one must understand its particular context, all of the variables in play, and the various perspectives of key stakeholders. This is why I pursued such a diverse range of disciplines in my academic career, including Business (MM), Social Work (MSW), Jewish Communal Leadership (Graduate Certificate), and Political Science (BA) – to acquire and cultivate a wide array of problem-solving tools for my professional toolbox. One of my favorite adages is that “Success happens when Preparation meets Opportunity”. As such, I am a lifelong learner who always does my homework and provides meaningful contributions that promote sustained organizational success. I am happy working both on the granular level of an issue and from a big picture, long-term strategy perspective. I believe that my unique background and experience makes me a rare asset that will benefit any team for many years to come. Please contact me at b••••••••@gmail.com should you have any inquiries. Thank you!

Experience

1. Assistant Director of Leadership Operations

   Jewish United Fund

   Jul 2025 — Present · Chicago, IL, US

Education

• University of Michigan Frankel Center for Judaic Studies

  Masters Certificate, Jewish Communal Leadership

• University of Michigan

  Master of Social Work - MSW, Business Administration and Management

• University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business

  Master of Management , Business Management, Marketing, Corporate Strategy, and Negotiations

• University of Cape Town

  Study Abroad, Political Science and Government

• The iCenter

  Master’s Certificate, Israel Education

• The George Washington University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Political Science and Government

  2017 — 2021

• University of Pennsylvania

  The Wharton School and School of Social Policy and Practice, Organizational Leadership for Social Workers