American Friends of Hebrew University Promoted Matt Cohen
The organization tapped Matt Cohen to serve as its new national director of institutional giving.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in People
American Friends of the Hebrew University has promoted Matt Cohen to the position of national director of institutional giving. Cohen, who previously led the organization's Midwest Region, will now head its national institutional giving program.
Why it matters
The appointment elevates a veteran fundraiser to manage partnerships and align Hebrew University of Jerusalem research priorities with institutional supporters. This leadership change aims to strengthen the organization's ability to communicate academic initiatives across the United States.
Matt Cohen joins the national leadership team after serving as the associate executive director for the organization's Midwest Region since 2021. He brings extensive nonprofit experience from roles at Erie Family Health Center and Sinai Chicago.
The players
Matt Cohen
He is the newly appointed national director of institutional giving for American Friends of the Hebrew University who previously worked at Sinai Chicago.
American Friends of the Hebrew University
This nonprofit organization is dedicated to supporting the Hebrew University of Jerusalem through fundraising and advocacy in the United States.
The details
In his new capacity, Cohen is tasked with building and leading a national institutional giving program that connects partners with research priorities at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He holds an M.S. in biochemistry and a dual B.S. in chemistry and cell and molecular biology.
Timeline
Matt Cohen earned his dual B.S. degree in 1995.
Cohen completed an M.S. in biochemistry in 1997.
Cohen joined American Friends of the Hebrew University in 2021.
The promotion was announced on September 25, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership appointment reflects a broader trend of nonprofit institutions centralizing their development operations to better align with specific research initiatives. By consolidating institutional giving under a national director, the organization aims to standardize its outreach to partners across the country.
Institutional partners and donors can expect a more unified approach to communication regarding Hebrew University of Jerusalem research priorities. This change streamlines how the organization interacts with its philanthropic supporters on a national level.
The takeaway
The promotion of Matt Cohen underscores the importance of deep academic expertise in institutional fundraising leadership. His background in biochemistry and nonprofit management positions him to bridge the gap between high-level research and donor relations.
Further reading
For more updates on professional transitions in the city, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Jewish News Syndicate.
