Steven A. Rakitt

President, Genesis Prize Foundation (GPF)

Steven A. Rakitt was appointed President of The Genesis Prize Foundation in August 2017.  The Genesis Prize fosters Jewish identity, inspires Jewish pride, and strengthens the bond between Israel and the Diaspora. The annual one-million-dollar award celebrates Jewish talent and achievement by honoring individuals for their professional accomplishments, commitment to Jewish values, to Israel, and contribution to improving the world.

With over four decades of experience as a Jewish communal professional, Steve was most recently CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington where he oversaw the development of cutting-edge young adult engagement programs and a pioneering focus on inclusion of interfaith couples, young families and those with disabilities.  Previously, Steve served as President and CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and held various positions at The Jewish Federation of Rhode Island, including CEO.  He began his career at The Jewish Federation of Rochester, NY.

Steve graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Rutgers College with a BA in History, has an MSW from the University of Maryland, an MA in Jewish Studies from Baltimore Hebrew College and an MBA from the University of Rhode Island.