About the Jewish Talent Project
The Evolution of the Jewish Talent Project
In 2023, Philip Margolius, a lifelong DMV resident who established the Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award in memory of his late wife to honor exceptional local Jewish communal professionals, recognized a need to help local Jewish organizations attract, develop, and retain local talent. He recruited Scott Brown, a leadership coach and former Vice President for Talent at Hillel International, to help design a new endeavor that could transform how our community supports and resources professionals at Jewish organizations in the DMV.
Together, over the next two years, Phil and Scott spoke with more than 100 professionals working for local Jewish organizations, as well as local and national talent experts, to deepen their understanding of the sector’s strengths and challenges. They reviewed studies and data by Leading Edge–the industry leader in strengthening Jewish nonprofits–to understand best practices and key strategies that move the needle in supporting professionals at Jewish organizations. They learned valuable insights about workplace culture and professionals that are unique to Greater Washington. One thing was clear: to make a meaningful impact in this space, the DMV region needed an ongoing, well-resourced initiative led by a capable full-time director. The Jewish Talent Project was born.
“This project reflects the kind of collective investment our community needs. By strengthening workplaces, supporting talented professionals, and prioritizing equity and respect, we’re ensuring that Jewish organizations in the D.C. region aren’t just places to work. They’re places where people can thrive and build meaningful, lasting careers.”
Rachel Gildiner
Executive Director of the SRE Network, a national initiative that advances workplace culture and equity in Jewish organizations
The Jewish Talent Project Today
Today, the Jewish Talent Project is funded by a committed group of local philanthropists, while also seeking additional funding to support its growth for years to come.
Adam Levner, JTP’s Senior Director, carries out the vision to support local professionals, through JTP ProConnect, and the organizations where those professionals work, through the JTP Collaborative. By providing consultations, shared resources, networking events, professional development opportunities, and more, JTP works to create a region where Jewish communal professionals and organizations thrive—leading to vibrant and meaningful Jewish life.
About Adam Levner
Senior Director of the JTP
For nearly 25 years, Adam Levner has devoted his career to helping people discover their strengths, grow as leaders, and make a lasting impact. As the Senior Director of the Jewish Talent Project, Adam brings that passion home to the community he calls his own.
“Everything I’ve done in my career has been about talent in one form or another. This role is an opportunity to take those lessons and apply them on a broader scale—to strengthen not just individuals, but our entire ecosystem of Jewish organizations.” – Adam Levner