Weinberg Foundation Appoints New Board Members, Names Next Chair

Maria Cancian joins the board, Nimrod Goor to become the foundation's first Israeli board chair

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:54pm

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A highly reflective, geometric sculpture made of brushed aluminum and glass, conveying the abstract ideas of community resilience and economic security through a polished, premium visual metaphor.A minimalist sculpture symbolizes the Weinberg Foundation's mission to empower communities and combat poverty through strategic philanthropic investments.Baltimore Today

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, a major philanthropic organization that fights poverty and builds strong communities, has announced the appointment of Maria Cancian to its Board of Directors and the selection of Nimrod Goor as its next board chair. Cancian, a professor and former dean at Georgetown University, brings extensive experience in family economic well-being. Goor, a founding partner at Helios Energy Investments in Israel, will become the foundation's first Israeli board chair, reflecting its long-standing commitment to work in Israel.

Why it matters

The Weinberg Foundation is a significant player in the philanthropic landscape, providing $150 million in annual grants to nonprofits in the U.S. and Israel focused on issues like affordable housing, health, employment, education, and supporting the elderly. The appointments of Cancian and Goor signal the foundation's continued focus on addressing poverty and strengthening communities, especially during challenging times.

The details

Cancian, a nationally recognized public policy scholar, has led influential research and policy efforts on economic security and effective public systems. She previously directed the Institute for Research on Poverty at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and served in senior roles at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Goor is a founding partner at Helios Energy Investments, Israel's largest private equity fund focused on renewable energy. He previously held leadership roles in technology and aerospace companies in the U.S. and Israel.

  • Maria Cancian was appointed to the Weinberg Foundation's Board of Directors in April 2026.
  • Nimrod Goor will become the Weinberg Foundation's next board chair, effective July 16, 2026, succeeding Paula Pretlow.

The players

Maria Cancian

A professor and former dean at Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy, Cancian brings extensive experience in family economic well-being.

Nimrod Goor

A founding partner at Helios Energy Investments, Israel's largest private equity fund focused on renewable energy, Goor will become the Weinberg Foundation's first Israeli board chair.

Paula Pretlow

The current chair of the Weinberg Foundation's board, Pretlow will continue to serve as a trustee after her term as chair ends.

Rachel Garbow Monroe

The president and CEO of the Weinberg Foundation, Monroe welcomed Cancian's appointment and praised the outgoing board member, Gordon Berlin.

Gordon Berlin

The outgoing Weinberg Foundation board member who recently concluded his eight-year term of exceptional service.

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What they’re saying

“I look forward to supporting the Foundation's important work combating poverty and empowering community resilience, especially in these challenging times.”

— Maria Cancian, New Weinberg Foundation Board Member

“I look forward to guiding the Foundation during a time of global uncertainty and rapid technological change. These shifts are already affecting people experiencing poverty and the organizations that help them.”

— Nimrod Goor, Incoming Weinberg Foundation Board Chair

“As I transition from the role of chair, I am proud of how the Foundation has met extraordinary community needs while maintaining a clear long-term, strategic focus. I am confident Nimrod's strong, steady leadership and deep understanding of the Foundation will serve it well as we continue to navigate current and future challenges.”

— Paula Pretlow, Outgoing Weinberg Foundation Board Chair

What’s next

The Weinberg Foundation's new board chair, Nimrod Goor, will officially begin his three-year term on July 16, 2026.

The takeaway

The Weinberg Foundation's appointment of Maria Cancian and selection of Nimrod Goor as its next board chair demonstrate the organization's commitment to addressing poverty and strengthening communities, especially during challenging times. Cancian's expertise in family economic well-being and Goor's leadership experience in Israel will help guide the foundation's $150 million in annual grants to nonprofits.