Bob Morgan

You can usually link a person to one or two major causes they are passionate about – but with Bob Morgan, there are almost too many to count. While his role with the Illinois Department of Public Health has him working fervently on issues related to the Affordable Care Act and medical marijuana regulation, Bob also serves on the board of the Anti-Defamation League and the public policy committee of the National Fragile X Foundation. In addition, he somehow finds time to volunteer with the Illinois Special Olympics and to advocate against bullying.

On top of all that, Bob is a staunch supporter of Israel and the Jewish community. During his time as deputy general counsel and Jewish community liaison to Governor Pat Quinn, he helped pass legislation allowing insurance companies doing business in Illinois to invest in Israel Bonds.

“Bob is the most positive person you will meet,” said Adam Grossman, Bob’s friend and one of last year’s Double Chai in the Chi honorees. “Bob leads by example and has always tried to help friends and leaders in our community work together and support Jewish values.”

Age:

34

Primary gig:

Statewide project coordinator for the Illinois Medical Cannabis Pilot Program; General Counsel for the Illinois Department of Public Health

On the side:

Local politics and involvement in the Jewish community

Relationship status:

Married to my amazing wife

How do you give back?

Spend much less time worrying about time and money.

Describe yourself in 10 words or less:

A do-gooder who enjoys life’s moments

Celebrity doppelganger/who would play you in a movie:

A younger Bruce Willis

How do you Jew in Chicago?

A combination of attending Temple Sholom, attending as many Jewish young professionals events as I can and spending quality time with family around Jewish holidays.

Passions:

Israel and fighting intolerance

Chicago's Jewish community in 10 years:

More integrated into the broader religious community in Chicago, while still providing a variety of religious, social and spiritual options throughout the greater Chicago area.

Me in 10 years:

Loving whatever job I am in, constantly thinking about new ways to make the world a better place.