Hy Safran is a distinguished leader in the Jewish community of Greater Detroit, known for his unwavering commitment to philanthropy, community service, and strategic leadership. Since 2015, Hy has served as the Director of Philanthropy at the Jewish Federation and United Jewish Foundation, where he has been a driving force in fostering meaningful relationships, encouraging philanthropy, and spearheading initiatives that strengthen the community. His work is dedicated to creating enduring legacies that will support and empower the Jewish community for generations to come.
Hy’s professional journey is rooted in national leadership and public service. Before joining the Federation, he served as the national constituency director for President Barack Obama, where he managed key relationships and engaged diverse communities across the nation. He later took on the role of chief director of strategic affairs in the U.S. Senate, providing vital strategic guidance on a range of national issues. These roles equipped Hy with a deep understanding of leadership, strategy, and the importance of community engagement—skills that he now brings to his work within the Jewish community.
In addition to his role at the Federation, Hy is deeply involved in various community organizations. He serves on the boards of Congregation Shaarey Zedek and Humble Design, and has been an active leader in numerous other institutions, including the Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish Theological Seminary Detroit Chapter, Jewish Federation NEXTGen Executive Committee, and the Anti-Defamation League Young Adult Division. Through these roles, Hy has worked tirelessly to promote social justice, foster unity, and ensure that the needs of the Jewish community are met with compassion and care.
Hy’s academic background is a testament to his dedication to excellence. He graduated summa cum laude from Columbia University, where he was recognized for his academic achievements and leadership qualities. He also earned a degree magna cum laude from the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he deepened his understanding of Jewish history, culture, and values. This strong educational foundation has informed Hy’s approach to his work, guiding him as he blends tradition with innovation to meet the needs of the community.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Hy is a man of diverse interests and passions. He enjoys traveling, cooking, and exploring the arts, and is particularly known for his colorful and extensive sock collection—a reflection of his fun-loving and creative personality. A devoted sports fan, Hy proudly supports the Detroit Tigers and Michigan Wolverines, further solidifying his deep connection to the community.
Central to Hy Safran’s work is his commitment to family and community. His initiatives within the Jewish Federation reflect his belief in the transformative power of philanthropy to create lasting, positive change. Hy’s enthusiasm for Jewish identity, coupled with his genuine care for individuals at all stages of life, makes him a respected and admired leader within the community. His contributions have been widely recognized, including being named one of Jewish Detroit’s 36 Under 36, a prestigious honor that acknowledges young leaders making a significant impact.
Despite his many achievements, Hy remains deeply humble and grateful for the opportunity to serve his community. His journey is a powerful example of how leadership, vision, and a dedication to service can come together to create a lasting legacy. As Hy continues to lead and inspire, his work will undoubtedly leave a profound mark on the Jewish community in Greater Detroit, ensuring its continued strength, resilience, and unity for generations to come.
Hy’s professional journey is rooted in national leadership and public service. Before joining the Federation, he served as the national constituency director for President Barack Obama, where he managed key relationships and engaged diverse communities across the nation. He later took on the role of chief director of strategic affairs in the U.S. Senate, providing vital strategic guidance on a range of national issues. These roles equipped Hy with a deep understanding of leadership, strategy, and the importance of community engagement—skills that he now brings to his work within the Jewish community.
In addition to his role at the Federation, Hy is deeply involved in various community organizations. He serves on the boards of Congregation Shaarey Zedek and Humble Design, and has been an active leader in numerous other institutions, including the Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish Theological Seminary Detroit Chapter, Jewish Federation NEXTGen Executive Committee, and the Anti-Defamation League Young Adult Division. Through these roles, Hy has worked tirelessly to promote social justice, foster unity, and ensure that the needs of the Jewish community are met with compassion and care.
Hy’s academic background is a testament to his dedication to excellence. He graduated summa cum laude from Columbia University, where he was recognized for his academic achievements and leadership qualities. He also earned a degree magna cum laude from the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he deepened his understanding of Jewish history, culture, and values. This strong educational foundation has informed Hy’s approach to his work, guiding him as he blends tradition with innovation to meet the needs of the community.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Hy is a man of diverse interests and passions. He enjoys traveling, cooking, and exploring the arts, and is particularly known for his colorful and extensive sock collection—a reflection of his fun-loving and creative personality. A devoted sports fan, Hy proudly supports the Detroit Tigers and Michigan Wolverines, further solidifying his deep connection to the community.
Central to Hy Safran’s work is his commitment to family and community. His initiatives within the Jewish Federation reflect his belief in the transformative power of philanthropy to create lasting, positive change. Hy’s enthusiasm for Jewish identity, coupled with his genuine care for individuals at all stages of life, makes him a respected and admired leader within the community. His contributions have been widely recognized, including being named one of Jewish Detroit’s 36 Under 36, a prestigious honor that acknowledges young leaders making a significant impact.
Despite his many achievements, Hy remains deeply humble and grateful for the opportunity to serve his community. His journey is a powerful example of how leadership, vision, and a dedication to service can come together to create a lasting legacy. As Hy continues to lead and inspire, his work will undoubtedly leave a profound mark on the Jewish community in Greater Detroit, ensuring its continued strength, resilience, and unity for generations to come.
