New York, NY (May 1, 2026) – The New York Community Trust announced today that Amy Freitag has decided to step down as its president after four years at the helm. Freitag will continue to serve as Strategic Advisor through June 30, 2026, as The Trust advances a smooth and carefully managed transition.
“We are deeply grateful for all Amy has done for The New York Community Trust, our grantees, and the broader New York community it is our mission to serve. As Amy begins her next chapter, settling with her family in Vermont and pursuing new professional opportunities, we extend our warmest wishes and sincere appreciation,” said Jamie Drake, Chair of The Trust’s Board of Directors. “Amy guided The Trust through its first rebranding in half a century and successfully steered The Trust through its first-ever strategic plan, creating a more effective and united organization. Her leadership brought on key hires, reinvigorated the board, and bolstered our development capacity. Her accomplishments have strengthened The Trust, and her continued, steady guidance over the next few months will support a seamless transition.”
“Serving The New York Community Trust has been one of the great privileges of my career. I am proud of what I accomplished alongside The Trust’s dedicated staff to help foster a stronger, more strategic, and more unified organization. I have every confidence that The Trust will continue to grow and thrive, guided by its talented team and enduring mission. I am deeply grateful to the board, my colleagues, and our grantee and donor partners for their trust and collaboration over the years. I look forward to watching this remarkable institution write its next chapter,” said Freitag.
The Trust’s Board of Directors will immediately commence a search for the foundation’s fifth president in its 102-year history. During this period, the Board has appointed The Trust’s General Counsel, Carrie Trowbridge, to serve as Interim President, ensuring continuity of leadership as the organization continues its critical work in New York and beyond.
“With her depth of experience as The Trust’s Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Carrie Trowbridge is the right person for this moment. She is deeply familiar with every facet of The Trust and the work we do with donors and in the community. Carrie has earned the confidence of the Board, The Trust’s staff, and our grantee and donor communities. We have full faith that Carrie’s steady leadership, together with the strength and experience of The Trust’s executive team, will build on Amy’s accomplishments and guide the organization through this transition with the care and continuity our partners expect,” said Drake.
It was announced earlier this week that Shawn Morehead, The Trust’s Executive Vice President and Chief Program Officer, will be departing The Trust later this spring after fifteen years to serve as President of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.
“Shawn’s absence will be felt throughout the philanthropic sector in New York, but this tremendous opportunity is a testament to the exceptional talent and leadership she has demonstrated throughout her time here. We will miss Shawn and wish her every success in her new role,” Drake said.
The Trust announced that Irfan Hasan, current Vice President of Programs and Grants, will serve as Interim Chief Program Officer upon Morehead’s departure. Hasan has been a distinguished member of The Trust’s program department for 26 years and is widely respected within the sector, providing experienced leadership and continuity for the organization’s grantmaking work.
About The New York Community Trust
Since 1924, The Trust has been the community foundation for New York City, Long Island, and Westchester. Thanks to the generosity of individuals, families, and businesses—and the guidance of their professional advisors—The Trust is one of the largest funders of local nonprofits.
With over $3.5 billion in assets across both endowed and donor-advised funds, The Trust’s total grantmaking capacity is more than $200 million a year, and its work covers counties with a population of 12.4 million residents—more than half the state’s inhabitants.
Contact:
Lauren Stewart
lauren@turn-two.co | (804) 690-9966
