Cross-Portfolio Research Study: Literature Review on Jewish Leadership

On behalf of the Jim Joseph Foundation, the Center for Creative Leadership is conducting a cross-portfolio research study of leadership development in the American Jewish community to support Jewish learning experiences. The Foundation defines Jewish learning experiences broadly as “experiences that draw upon Jewish wisdom, values, practices, culture, traditions and history to engage people in activities that guide them towards living more connected, meaningful and purpose-filled lives.” The primary research questions guiding this study can be paraphrased as follows:

1. How have Jewish leaders developed through opportunities and learning experiences?
2. What are best practices for leadership development in the Jewish community?
3. How can understanding the learning journeys of Jewish leaders and state of the art practices in leadership development inform strategies to achieve greater impact through investment in leadership development in the Jewish community?

This literature review represents our first step to exploring these complex questions by researching the distinguishing features of Jewish leadership and highlighting the current day challenges faced by Jewish leaders.

Cross-Portfolio Research Study: Literature Review on Jewish Leadership, Executive Summary, Center for Creative Leadership, May 2019

Read the Foundation’s series of guest blogs reflecting on the CCL literature review:

• A Path Forward in Jewish Leadership Development, Mordy Walfish, Leading Edge
• The Power of Leaders Who Leverage Networks, Stosh Cotler, Bend the Arc
• The “Crisis Narrative,” Revisited, Yehuda Kurtzer, Shalom Hartman Institute of North America
• Promote Dialogue: Next Steps as We Navigate Education Challenges in Training for Effective Jewish Leadership, Mark Young
• Polarity Challenges in Developing Jewish Leaders, Yavilah McCoy, Dimensions Educational Consulting