Shep Englander

Leading our Jewish Federation, enables me to pursue my passion for building community, which enhances so many lives.

After I graduated from Tufts University, I worked for a not-for-profit that develops community leaders. After graduating from Northeastern University School of Law, I practiced law at a Washington, D.C. law firm that represented not-for-profit clients. I left to work as Associate Director at Jewish Federations of North America’s Washington, DC office. Then I moved to Pittsburgh to serve as their Jewish Federation’s Vice President, before becoming CEO at the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati in 2004. During my 16-year tenure, I led the successful effort to raise $42 million to build a new community campus’ development. During my tenure, Cincinnati gained a reputation as one of America’s most collaborative and innovative Jewish communities, and the Federation campus remains the main gathering space at its heart.

In 2021, I was recruited here from Cincinnati. I was drawn to Sarasota’s vibrant culture, arts, and educational life. I’m grateful to be leading a second capital campaign to build a campus where people can freely express their Jewish identity and where people of all faiths can meet, learn and celebrate together.

I am married to Hayley Englander, who is a practicing psychotherapist and an avid tennis player. Together we have three grown children.