Karlen Gary

Written by Karlen Gary

Published: 23 Nov 2025

25-facts-about-jonathan-greenblatt
Source: Vox.com

Who is Jonathan Greenblatt? Jonathan Greenblatt is the CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). What is he known for? He is known for his work in fighting anti-Semitism, hate speech, and bigotry. Why is he important? Greenblatt has played a significant role in advocating for civil rights and social justice. What are some key facts about him? He previously served in the Obama administration as Special Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation. What else should you know? Greenblatt is also an entrepreneur, having co-founded Ethos Water, which was acquired by Starbucks. Why should you care? Understanding his contributions can provide insight into ongoing efforts to combat hate and promote equality.

Table of Contents

Who is Jonathan Greenblatt?

Jonathan Greenblatt is a prominent figure in the world of social justice and advocacy. As the CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), he has made significant contributions to fighting hate and promoting fair treatment for all. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his life and career.

  1. Jonathan Greenblatt was born on November 21, 1970, in Trumbull, Connecticut.

  2. He graduated from Tufts University with a degree in political science.

  3. Greenblatt earned an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

  4. He co-founded Ethos Water, a bottled water company that donates a portion of its profits to clean water initiatives.

  5. Ethos Water was acquired by Starbucks in 2005.

Career Highlights

Jonathan's career is marked by various roles that highlight his commitment to social causes and business acumen.

  1. He served as a special assistant to President Barack Obama.

  2. Greenblatt was the director of the Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation in the Obama administration.

  3. He has worked as a social entrepreneur, focusing on creating businesses that have a positive social impact.

  4. Before joining the ADL, he was the CEO of GOOD Worldwide, a media company focused on social impact.

  5. Greenblatt became the CEO of the ADL in July 2015.

Contributions to the Anti-Defamation League

Under his leadership, the ADL has expanded its efforts to combat hate and promote justice.

  1. He launched the "ADL Center for Technology and Society" to address online hate speech.

  2. Greenblatt has been vocal about the rise of anti-Semitism and other forms of hate in the United States.

  3. He has testified before Congress on issues related to hate crimes and domestic terrorism.

  4. The ADL, under his guidance, has partnered with tech companies to combat online extremism.

  5. He has emphasized the importance of education in fighting hate, leading to the expansion of ADL's educational programs.

Advocacy and Public Speaking

Jonathan is a well-known advocate and public speaker, often addressing issues of social justice and equality.

  1. He has spoken at numerous conferences and events, including the Aspen Ideas Festival.

  2. Greenblatt has written op-eds for major publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post.

  3. He frequently appears on television news programs to discuss issues related to hate and discrimination.

  4. He has been a guest lecturer at various universities, sharing his insights on social entrepreneurship and advocacy.

  5. Greenblatt uses social media platforms to raise awareness about issues related to hate and discrimination.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his professional achievements, Jonathan has a rich personal life and diverse interests.

  1. He is married to Marjan Keypour Greenblatt, an Iranian-American human rights activist.

  2. The couple has three children.

  3. Greenblatt is an avid runner and has participated in several marathons.

  4. He enjoys reading and often shares book recommendations on social media.

  5. Jonathan is passionate about mentoring young leaders and often takes time to guide aspiring social entrepreneurs.

Final Thoughts on Jonathan Greenblatt

Jonathan Greenblatt's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in business to his impactful role at the Anti-Defamation League, he's shown a commitment to social justice and equality. His work has not only influenced policies but also touched countless lives. Greenblatt's dedication to combating hate and promoting inclusivity stands as a beacon for future leaders. Whether through his innovative approaches or his unwavering stance on critical issues, he continues to make a significant difference. Understanding his contributions gives us a glimpse into the power of leadership driven by purpose and passion. As we reflect on these 25 facts, it's clear that Greenblatt's legacy will endure, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and strive for a more just and inclusive world.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.