The Fellowship’s Robin Van Etten Named a 2025 Notable Leader in Philanthropy by Crain’s Chicago Business

June 9, 2025

(CHICAGO, Ill.) – The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship) is proud to announce that Robin Van Etten, U.S. Chief Executive Officer and Global Chief Operating Officer, has been named a 2025 Notable Leader in Philanthropy by Crain’s Chicago Business, recognizing her exceptional leadership which has driven substantial growth for the organization, which is also Israel’s largest provider of humanitarian aid.

Since stepping into her dual role in 2019, Van Etten has led the implementation of the organization’s recently-completed five-year strategic plan, overseen global operations across its offices in four countries (U.S., Israel, Canada, and Korea), and managed a 228-person global workforce—more than half of whom are based in the United States. She also directs the U.S. budget and serves on both the Global Board of Directors and the Board of Directors for IFCJ Canada. Before her current role, Van Etten served as The Fellowship’s Vice President of Integrated Fundraising and Marketing.

“This honor is a reflection of Robin’s bold leadership, strategic focus, and unwavering dedication to Israel and the Jewish people,” said Yael Eckstein, President and Global CEO of The Fellowship. “Her steadfast commitment to our mission and her ability to help grow our impact globally while also remaining true to our core values every day is truly best in class.”

During Van Etten’s tenure, The Fellowship has more than doubled its revenue, active donor base, and funds allocated to mission services. Also during this time, the organization has been recognized four times on both Forbes’ Top 100 Charities list and the Nonprofit Times’ Best Nonprofits to Work For list, further solidifying its reputation for its excellent performance, impact, and workplace culture.

“It is such an honor to be named amongst the top philanthropy leaders in Chicago,” said Van Etten. “This recognition truly belongs to our incredible team and our hundreds of thousands of supporters who so faithfully give in order to enable us to fulfill our mission every day and help us provide lifesaving aid and support to Israel and the Jewish people worldwide.” Since 2017, Crain’s Notables has recognized over 5,000 outstanding leaders across industries. Honorees are selected through a peer nomination and editorial review process. To view the full list of 2025 honorees, visit www.chicagobusiness.com/notables. To learn more about The Fellowship and its work, visit www.ifcj.org.