Leading for Tomorrow

What is Leading for Tomorrow?

Leading for Tomorrow is a 9-month cohort program designed and run by the Buncher Institute for Leadership Development (BuILD) to prepare emerging board leaders in the Pittsburgh Jewish community. The program combines Jewish values, leadership training and nonprofit governance education to build stronger, more ethical and effective community leaders. Participants are nominated by their organization’s executive director and board chair and engage in deep, reflective, and skill-based learning.

Why It Matters

Jewish communal organizations rely on volunteer leaders who are thoughtful, strategic, and guided by Jewish ethics. This program supports individuals who are on the path to becoming board chairs, executive committee members, or influential stakeholders by giving them the tools to lead well—and lead Jewishly. It strengthens our entire community by investing in its future leadership.

Key Program Components

Monthly sessions focused on leadership development, governance, and Jewish values
Opening and closing retreats to build relationships and reflect on growth
Accountability partners to deepen connection and offer peer mentorship
One-on-one Jewish text learning with a matched educator through Jewish Learning Collaborative
A Capstone Project addressing a real organizational or communal need

Capstone Project

Each fellow designs a Capstone Project that reflects their learning and responds to a real challenge or opportunity within their organization. Fellows work independently or in pairs and present their work at the final graduation. Projects could include donor stewardship plans, board onboarding resources, or strategies to enhance inclusivity and engagement.

Who Should Apply & How to Join

This program is ideal for rising board leaders who:

Currently serve on a Jewish nonprofit or synagogue board
Have demonstrated commitment to Jewish communal life
Are ready to grow their leadership skills and Jewish learning
Can fully commit to the program’s timeline and requirements

Application Process:

Nomination by Executive Director and Board Chair
Submission of application
Interview with Buncher Institute team
Cohort selection and onboarding

Program Details

Duration: Winter 2026—Fall 2027
Fee: $500 (scholarships and payment plans available)
Cohort Size: Approximately 10 participants
Time Commitment: Monthly sessions, one-on-one learning with Jewish Learning Collaborative and occasional peer meetings