As the co-founder and CEO of the Genesis Prize Foundation, Stan Polovets has played a pivotal role in shaping the Genesis Prize into a powerful symbol of Jewish excellence and a driving force for humanitarian change worldwide. Since its establishment in 2013, the prize has garnered significant international acclaim, earning the “Jewish Nobel” title from Time magazine.
Under Polovets’ visionary leadership, the Genesis Prize has evolved beyond merely celebrating Jewish achievements, becoming a unifying force that inspires pride among Jewish communities globally while addressing critical humanitarian challenges. With a substantial $100 million endowment, the foundation annually awards $1 million to individuals or organizations whose accomplishments have significantly impacted society and embody core Jewish values.
Guided by Polovets, the Genesis Prize has come to emphasize the timeless Jewish principles of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and tzedakah (philanthropy), adapting them to address the pressing needs of the modern world. This commitment to tackling urgent humanitarian issues is exemplified by the foundation’s recent decision to award $1 million to Israeli organizations that support hostages and their families, reflecting a broader understanding of what it means to make a difference in society and uphold Jewish values.
Stan Polovets has leveraged strategic philanthropy to amplify the Genesis Prize’s impact, attracting additional donors and transforming the annual $1 million prize into an impressive $50 million in global philanthropic initiatives over the past decade. This remarkable achievement underscores the foundation’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes and ability to inspire others to join its mission.
Under Polovets’ stewardship, the Genesis Prize has honored diverse individuals, each making unique contributions to society and the Jewish community. From trailblazers in the arts and sciences to social justice and humanitarian aid champions, these honorees embody the foundation’s expansive vision of Jewish excellence and philanthropy. With the foundation’s support, the initiatives launched and sustained by these recipients continue to have a lasting impact on communities worldwide, serving as a powerful testament to Polovets’ belief in the capacity of individual action to drive collective change.
As the Genesis Prize Foundation looks to the future, Stan Polovets’ vision remains as relevant and vital as ever. In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the foundation’s commitment to global Jewry and humanitarian causes is a testament to the enduring power of Jewish values to effect positive change. With Polovets at the forefront, the Genesis Prize is well-positioned to continue inspiring future generations of Jewish leaders and philanthropists, advancing its mission to celebrate Jewish achievement and contribute to the betterment of humanity.
