Since starting as CEO of Jewish Family Service in January 2012, Michael has led JFS through multiple collaborative strategic planning processes, an $11M capital campaign resulting in the client-centric Joan & Irwin Jacobs Campus, and a $50M endowment campaign. Under Michael’s leadership, JFS has earned Charity Navigator’s highest rating for the 15th year in a row, an achievement that less than 1% of nonprofits nationwide can claim.

Michael has been a Jewish Communal professional for over 40 years, strengthening communities across the country. Prior to JFS, Michael served as Executive Director of Nehirim, a national Jewish LGBTQ organization, and CEO of Jewish Community Center MetroWest, one of the largest JCCs in the country located just outside of New York City. Michael has also worked in the Jewish communities of Pittsburgh, PA, Columbus, OH, Tucson, AZ, and Richmond, VA.

Throughout his career, Michael has focused on the needs of vulnerable community members who are often left out or left behind—often our youth, older adults, and most recently, asylum seekers and refugees.

Michael has a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Yeshiva University. He is a Board Member of the Network of Jewish Human Service Associations and of the San Diego County Continuum of Care, which addresses homelessness in San Diego. Michael is an avid artist and dedicated yogi.