From Schechter to Startups: Celebrating Alumni Elan Mosbacher (‘99)
When parents tell Elan that they send their kids to Schechter, he usually responds with a smile and says, “That’s where the best people all go.” This sentiment captures the pride and gratitude Elan feels towards Schechter.
In a recent article published in Jewish Chicago: The JUF Magazine, titled “Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Jewish Day School,” Elan noted that Schechter helped to lay the foundation for his journey from a curious student to a successful entrepreneur.
Today, he is the co-founder and CEO of Pinch, a startup that empowers healthcare entrepreneurs. In this role, he sets the company's vision, builds an exceptional team, and ensures that the company “has enough money in the bank to keep serving our clients.”
Elan loves creating new companies, helping people grow in their careers, and developing products that people can use and enjoy. He latched onto startups out of college and now has done five of them full-time, including SpotHero, an app that helps drivers find and book parking that now operates in 300 cities and is used by millions of people monthly.
Elan’s education began at Schechter, where he says he developed a strong academic and social foundation, formed life-long friendships, and embraced the values that have guided him throughout his professional and personal life.
Following Schechter, he attended Ida Crown Jewish Academy. His high school days were marked by memorable activities, including racing desks through the hallways—an anecdote that highlights his playful and spirited nature!
Continuing his academic journey, Elan attended the University of Maryland, earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance. In college, he participated in the Hinman CEOs program, which allowed him to live and study with like-minded individuals aspiring to start their own companies. This program was instrumental in nurturing his entrepreneurial spirit.
Elan furthered his education by earning an MBA in 2016 through the part-time MBA program at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management while also leading SpotHero.
Beyond his professional achievements, Elan is proud to have married a high school classmate with whom he is raising day school children.
He values the lifelong friendships and sense of community fostered at Schechter, which have greatly influenced his career. He remains connected with many Schechter friends and teachers, noting that several classmates have pursued exciting careers, from tech entrepreneurs to professional musicians.
Elan has a special connection with his siblings, including his brother, a professional artist, and his sister, who lives in Seattle with her family.
Note: Elan sends a shout out to Coach Nan, and adds that he looks forward to seeing how long it takes for her daughter Dana (currently a Schechter parent) to share a photo of this story with him!
Do you know an alum that we should spotlight? Contact tami.warshawsky@schechter.org
