The Jewish Federation of St. Louis announces the appointment of Michael Lourie as Vice President of Public Affairs and Chief of Staff, effective immediately. This newly combined role represents a strategic investment in strengthening the Federation’s voice, visibility and organizational impact at a pivotal time for the Jewish community.
Lourie has served as Interim Chief of Staff since December 2024, playing a key role in advancing the Federation’s mission and operations. He supported the onboarding of President and CEO Danny Cohn, helped launch of the Federation’s Strategic Plan and coordinated high-level governance and board initiatives.
“Michael’s leadership has already made a significant impact,” said Danny Cohn, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. “He brings clarity, strategic thinking and a deep dedication to Jewish communal life. As we work to build a more connected, resilient and secure community, his expertise will be instrumental in amplifying our voice, strengthening partnerships and advancing our mission.”
In addition to his public affairs responsibilities, Lourie will continue to serve as a key advisor to the CEO and collaborate across departments to implement the Federation’s Strategic Plan. He will also partner closely with the marketing team to enhance the Federation’s brand, refine its messaging and position the organization as a trusted leader in Jewish life.
“This integrated position reflects a commitment to more coordinated, effective engagement with all our partners and community leaders, at a time when collaboration is key for navigating the evolving challenges and opportunities facing Jews in St. Louis, Israel and around the world,” said Cohn.
With more than 20 years of experience in communications strategy, brand building, crisis management and stakeholder engagement, Lourie brings a deep understanding of leadership in complex environments. He previously spent nearly a decade at BJC HealthCare in leadership roles across communications, marketing and community engagement, including serving as Public Information Officer for Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s Command Center During the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lourie also held communications and marketing roles at Anheuser-Busch InBev, where he led North American crisis communications and worked in international communications and brand management. He began his professional journey at public relations agencies in New York and Chicago, supporting clients in the healthcare, pharmaceutical and consumer sectors.
Lourie holds an MBA from Washington University’s Olin Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from The University of Texas at Austin. He serves on the Board of Directors of Jewish Family Services and is an alum of Leadership St. Louis. He and his wife Simcha live in St. Louis with their three sons and are members of United Hebrew Congregation.
###
Jewish Federation of St. Louis is the Jewish community’s central philanthropic, planning and community-building organization. Founded in 1901, it is one of the region’s most respected and effective nonprofit organizations. Jewish Federation of St. Louis supports more than 85 agencies, programs and services in St. Louis and around the world – to ensure a thriving Jewish community, respond to emergencies and care for our vulnerable. Funds are raised through the Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ Annual Campaign and through Planned Giving opportunities. Find out more at JFedSTL.org. Jewish Federation of St. Louis is a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity.