News

The Rockefeller Brothers Fund Board of Trustees announced it would confer upon Stephen Heintz the title of president emeritus—a distinction that has never before been granted in the organization's history. 

TIME has named Charlie Brown, executive director of the Trust for Civic Life, to the 2026 TIME100 Philanthropy list, which recognizes the most influential leaders shaping the future of giving.

The Fund in 2025: Shoulder to Shoulder reflects on a year of unprecedented challenges, where the RBF and its grantees drew on decades of investment in civil society and the strength of collective action.

After eight years leading the Western Balkans program, Mia will step into a broader role overseeing program development and grants.

2026 will be a hinge year when the United States can choose to reaffirm the ideals of its founding and continue the work of realizing them, or imperil the possibility. Challenging times require philanthropy to do more. 

At the end of February, Betsy will step down from her role as executive vice president for programs and communications to become chief philanthropy officer at the Marin Community Foundation.

Heintz’s participation alongside distinguished members include former heads of government and other internationally recognized figures reflects the RBF’s longstanding commitment to strengthening the vitality of democracy and advancing just and durable peace.

The RBF stands in solidarity with our fellow foundations and charitable organizations. 

We reject attempts to exploit political violence to mischaracterize our good work or restrict our fundamental freedoms, like freedom of speech and the freedom to give. Our organizations will continue focusing on helping people across all backgrounds, geographies, ideologies, and belief systems to heal, thrive, and live peacefully together, protected by the freedoms guaranteed in our Constitution.

Anne Bartley, former trustee of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund (RBF), passed away on August 30, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.