At NCF, we’re a people-first, values-driven team committed to collaboration and lasting impact.

Our Board of Trustees includes both Family Member and Independent Trustees who bring experience, expertise, and vision to the Foundation.

Our Trustees are philanthropists, business leaders, activists and changemakers across a variety of fields and sectors, including the arts, the clean economy, academia, finance, social services, entertainment, and non-profits. The majority are descendants of Nathan Cummings. The Foundation’s Board also includes Independent Trustees, who bring diversity, governance and subject matter expertise to the Board and help fill in important knowledge gaps. These experts and community leaders offer deep knowledge of and experience with the communities and issues we focus on and share the same power and influence as Family Member Trustees. Independent Trustees also serve an important role in the evaluation and nomination of family members for trustee positions based on standard criteria and requirements. Emeritus Trustees hold an honorary, non-voting place on the board, offering trusted counsel, the wisdom of lived experience, and mentorship that strengthens the organization’s continuity and future—grounded in their enduring commitment and past service.

Family members can participate on the Board and in the Foundation as Associates. They serve on Foundation committees and contribute actively to the work of the Foundation. After meeting certain service requirements, Associates are eligible to become Trustees of the Foundation through a regular nomination process.

The Foundation’s Investment Committee includes a number of advisors, who are invited to provide additional knowledge and perspective. They bring invaluable insight and professional experience to the Foundation’s investment practices, particularly as we work to align 100% of our endowment so that every dollar works to further our mission.

The Foundation’s PRI Committee are invited to leverage their expertise and perspective to guide our use of flexible, risk-tolerant investments that complements our grantmaking and expands impact in places where traditional funding falls short, ensuring our resources are working creatively in service of our mission.