William Foster to Lead The Pew Charitable Trusts

Christopher Jones, chair of the board, credited Foster’s track record in the nonprofit sector and his focus on evidence-based strategies as primary drivers for the selection. Foster has spent his career advising philanthropies and nonprofits on scaling high-impact initiatives, earning a reputation for fostering institutional growth and maintaining a strictly nonpartisan approach to policy work.

Urahn, who plans to remain in her post through February 2027 to ensure a stable transition, noted that she has worked with Foster in various capacities over the last decade. She expressed confidence that his familiarity with Pew’s operational model will allow the organization to evolve without compromising its commitment to rigorous research. The appointment concludes a monthslong search process led by the board and assisted by external advisors, aimed at finding a successor capable of navigating the complex public policy landscape that has defined the institution for over 75 years.