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Staff Update

The New York Community Trust Names Rebecca Mandelman as New Chief Philanthropic Officer

Photo by Jose Pareja for The New York Community Trust

NEW YORK (January 2, 2024) – The New York Community Trust today announced the hiring of Rebecca Mandelman as its first chief philanthropic officer.

Mandelman will lead the development of multi-year strategies to strengthen The Trust’s relationships and engagement with donors throughout the region. She also will focus on growing The Trust’s external partnerships to increase impact and accelerate positive change.

“We look forward to the amazing work Rebecca will contribute to The Trust as we engage generous New Yorkers in improving the quality of life in all five boroughs, Westchester County, and Long Island,” said Amy Freitag, president of The New York Community Trust. “She will bring extraordinary experience and insight as we build on a century of partnering with donors to create a stronger and more vibrant New York.”

A New York native, Mandelman has deep expertise in strategic planning and community philanthropy. At The Miami Foundation, she played a key role in managing diverse philanthropic funds, advising family and individual philanthropies, overseeing the foundation’s 50th anniversary campaign, and cementing the organization’s role as an influential civic leader. Mandelman previously held senior leadership roles at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Americas Business Council Foundation, and New World Symphony. Most recently, she has served in a strategic consulting role for the Doris Duke Foundation.

“The New York metro area is home to so many generous people who are passionate about helping others and improving the quality of life and opportunity for all,” Mandelman said. “I’m excited to partner with The Trust’s donors to increase their impact while also expanding our reach so that everyone, regardless of background or experience, feels welcome, appreciated, and inspired to make a difference.”

A lifelong basketball fan, Mandelman started her career in international public relations for the National Basketball Association. She graduated cum laude from Georgetown University and received her MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.