Spotlight: Sam Ward
Sam loves being part of a Jewish community where old friends reconnect and new folks feel at home. Get to know Sam, from his work in finance to his love of golf, fitness, and trying new things.
Urban Dor: When did you first hear about Urban Dor and what was your first event?
I first heard about Urban Dor at Rosh Hashanah services at Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) and the first event I attended was Latke Vodka last year at Tumble Brook Country Club in Bloomfield, CT.
Urban Dor: What do you like most about being part of the Greater Hartford Jewish community?
I love how familiar everyone is with one another. Some of us grew up attending the same Hebrew school classes, while others who are new to the area are welcomed with open arms.
Urban Dor: What do you do professionally?
I'm a Financial Analyst at Travelers Insurance in Hartford.
Urban Dor: You have a strong background in financial analytics. How do you see AI changing the way financial analysts and wealth managers work over the next few years?
It’s funny you ask this question. I completed a thesis study on this exact question in my senior year of college. I believe wealth management will be completely changed within the next 5 to 10 years. It is easier than ever now for wealth management firms to scale down their workforce and take on more clients at the same time. At a high-level, financial modeling and forecasting tools are readily available and can be easily tailored to fit your risk tolerance. Please reach out to me if you would like to read my thesis or have a deeper discussion on it!
Urban Dor: When not crunching numbers, what do you enjoy doing on the weekends?
I like to make the most of my free time and consider myself a very active person. I work out almost every day of the week and try to fit in a round of golf once or twice a week. This spring I’m hoping to start scuba diving lessons. During the colder months, I’m actively playing basketball indoors and watching football.
Urban Dor: What’s the best way for people to connect further with you?
Please reach out to me on Instagram @sward.3. Looking forward to chatting!
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Urban Dor's next event is Latke Vodka at The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford on Saturday night, Dec 5th 2026. Tickets and details here.
Whether you’re from Greater Hartford, New Haven, Springfield, Boston, NYC or beyond, come experience the warmth and energy of the Greater Hartford Jewish community with Urban Dor.
