Nina Bershadker, Executive Director, The Taft Foundation
Tell us a little bit about your background and why you joined Workforce Matters.
I am relatively new to workforce development and joined Workforce Matters because I’m excited to learn from this community. My professional roots are in social work – I began my career on the front lines of social services, working in foster care, homelessness, and domestic violence, which shaped my interest in driving systemic change.
That perspective (and a whole lot of luck) eventually led me to philanthropy twenty years ago. For over a decade, I had the chance to partner with exceptional educators, non-profit, and public-sector leaders, dedicated to raising expectations for all students and expanding access to quality education so that every young person can be college- and career-ready.
In my current role, I focus on expanding opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We need to raise expectations here, too — many more people can and want to work, and workforce systems play a critical role.
What do you love about workforce development? (or why is workforce development important to you?)
I’m drawn to the opportunity it creates. Work gives us purpose, independence, and connection. Everyone – across all abilities – should have access to that.
What is something people might not know about you?
I was born and raised in Germany and came to the U.S. for college – now I’ve spent the majority of my life here. My family is still in Europe, and I’m doing my best to make sure my kids speak German!
What is something you are looking forward to this year?
Building new connections, learning from peers across the country, and being inspired by the work happening in other communities.
