HIGHLAND PARK, IL, January 16, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Matthew Travers has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Travers has established a distinguished career in the not-for-profit and sports sectors, marked by nearly two decades of leadership and innovation across both the United Kingdom and the United States. Since 2023, he has served as executive director of StandStrong, an organization founded in 2020 with a mission to empower communities through confidence & self-defense training. In this capacity, Mr. Travers is responsible for driving the organization's vision, developing effective programming, and ensuring that StandStrong's operations align with sound business principles while remaining true to its not-for-profit ethos. He manages a diverse team of coaches and staff based in Chicago, Boston and Miami, overseeing program delivery, staff performance and organizational priorities. His role also encompasses accounting, fundraising and community engagement, all aimed at inspiring positive change and fostering confidence among young people.

Prior to his current position, Mr. Travers was interim director of sports and recreation at JCC Chicago from 2016 to 2019. In this role, he contributed to the development and management of recreational programs that served a broad community base. His experience at JCC Chicago provided him with valuable insights into the operational challenges faced by long-established organizations and prepared him for the unique demands of launching a new nonprofit.

From 2008 to 2015, Mr. Travers served as head of sports at Maccabi Great Britain, the largest Jewish sports organization in the United Kingdom. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping youth sports and leadership programming and promoting inclusivity within the Jewish community. One of his most notable achievements occurred early in his time at Maccabi when he coached a youth soccer team that overcame low expectations and societal stigmas to win a county district championship. This accomplishment was significant not only for the trophy but for demonstrating to young athletes and their families that they could aspire beyond perceived limitations.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Travers was involved in elite development coaching at Arsenal Football Club from 2005 to 2008, where he helped nurture young talent at one of England's premier football institutions. He also gained experience as a coach with Extra Curricular Sports Activities Ltd (ECSA), further honing his skills in athlete development and mentorship.

Throughout his professional journey, Mr. Travers has been committed to bridging the gap between not-for-profit and for-profit sectors by advocating for professionalism, ambition and investment in top talent within community organizations. He has held key memberships in industry-related organizations such as the The English Football Association and the Board of United Synagogues.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Mr. Travers has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to civic engagement. He has served as a member of the young leadership team at Bushey Synagogue in the United Kingdom and volunteered with various charities supporting individuals with special educational needs, learning difficulties and disabilities. His work with Keshet—a partner organization with JCC—focused on fostering friendships between mainstream students and those with disabilities through inclusive programming.

His contributions have been recognized through several awards, including special recognition at Maccabi Great Britain in 2006 and earning recognition at national-level soccer tournaments in 2006. He was also highlighted during a quarter at JCC for his outstanding service.

Born in London, Mr. Travers values family life deeply. He enjoys spending time with his wife—who was born in Israel—and their children, who were born and raised in the United States. Together they embrace an active lifestyle that includes working out as a family, exploring new activities, reading, participating in online courses and going on walks or hikes. Leadership remains central to his identity both professionally and personally; he strives to set an example for his children while supporting their growth into remarkable individuals.

Looking ahead, Mr. Travers is dedicated to advancing StandStrong's mission as a leader in empowerment initiatives for young people's physical and mental well-being. He remains committed to elevating standards within not-for-profit organizations by integrating business acumen with community service, ensuring that future generations benefit from environments where ambition is encouraged and achievement is possible for all.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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