Sharon Sobol Jordan

President & CEO, United Way of Greater Cleveland

Education: Juris doctor and master’s degree in business administration, The Ohio State University; bachelor’s degree, Indiana University

Favorite Quote: “Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

What Motivates Me Right Now: The voices that come through our United Way 211 helpline every day. A mother trying to keep the lights on. A veteran choosing between groceries and medication. A caregiver who just needs a moment of support ... Hardworking people doing everything right and still struggling to get by. I feel the responsibility and possibility of those calls. It shouldn’t have to be this hard, and we can help. 

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My mom and I were in law school at the same time. We were at different law schools, and she even helped me study for my first exam. She graduated a year before me and became the first lawyer in our family.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I love supporting local chefs. Kiln is one of my top picks.