Business executive and community leader Bob Millstone has been nominated as the 39th President of Jewish Federation of St. Louis.  Millstone will be elected and installed at Federation’s Annual Meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 14.

Millstone, President and Founder of the Millstone Company, assumes the presidency at a pivotal point in Federation’s history with the launch of its new Strategic Plan and national search for its next professional leader. Federation’s current President Sanford Neuman considers Millstone to be the ideal successor.

“Bob Millstone was an integral part of the creation process of the strategic plan, and has a strong commitment to its success.  His presidency is the natural ‘next step’ in making the plan’s goals become a reality,” Neuman said.

One of the focuses of the new strategic plan is engagement of the next generation of leadership in our community, which Millstone believes is a growing priority. “It is incumbent upon us to prove our relevance to the next generation,” said Millstone. “We have to make sure we are doing things that are meaningful to them and the community at large.  While our values remain the same, we have to adapt to the evolving needs of the community and individuals we serve.”

Millstone brings with him a family tradition of service.

His grandfather, the late I.E. Millstone, was one of the most well-known, influential and respected Jewish leaders in St. Louis, and is the only honorary President of the Federation.  

Millstone has also served Federation in the roles of Vice President, Campaign and Vice President, Planning and Allocations.

Sheila Greenbaum, Chairman of the Board Development and Nominating Committee, has watched Millstone rise through Federation ranks, and is confident that “he will be an inspiration for young Jewish people.”  She adds,

Other Jewish causes have recognized Millstone for his dedication and work. American Jewish Committee’s (AJC) St. Louis chapter bestowed the Netzach Award on Millstone and his family.  The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) also selected Millstone as a Max Fisher Fellow for the next generation philanthropic leadership program.     

Millstone also brings an impressive list of civic accomplishments.  He currently is a Director of the Barnes Jewish Hospital Foundation, a member of the National Council of the Washington University School of Law and a member of the University of Missouri-St. Louis Chancellor’s Council.  He is also Treasurer of Good Government for Missouri and President of the Millstone Foundation.

In addition, Millstone has exceptional credentials in the business community.  Prior to starting The Millstone Company, he was President of Millstone Bangert, Inc., one of St. Louis’ premier airport, heavy and highway contractors.  He is a member of the Illinois and Missouri Bar Associations, active in the Regional Business Council, and a Director of the St. Louis Chapter of the National Association of Office and Industrial Properties.  

Millstone holds Bachelor of Arts, Masters of Business Administration and Juris Doctor degrees from Washington University.

Commenting on his upcoming Federation presidency, Millstone said, “The Jewish Federation is the most effective way to create a strong, vibrant Jewish community for the long-term, and allows us to impact the general community in positive ways.  There are many worthwhile organizations, but I feel this is the best way for me to make a meaningful impact in our community.”