The Community Foundation of New Jersey (CFNJ) today announced that Aaron Turner has joined the organization as its new Chief Philanthropic Officer.

Turner comes to CFNJ from The MCJ Amelior Foundation where she was the Senior Program Officer. In this role, Aaron managed the education portfolio in Newark, including initiating and implementing school improvement programs in partnership with Newark Public Schools, charter operators, non-profit and community partners, and institution leaders.

“We are thrilled to have Aaron on board the Community Foundation where her deep experience in program design and implementation will be of particular benefit to the fundholders we serve,” said Tammy Linde, Chair of the CFNJ Board of Trustees. “Aaron is familiar not only with effective community programming, but also the types of giving that can increase the impact of such programming.”

Turner’s previous experience includes serving as a program officer at the Foundation for Newark’s Future and previously holding a number of positions at the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE). At NYCDOE, Turner led the Office of School Redesign, overseeing millions in federal and philanthropic grants; managed the Panel for Educational Policy, the mayoral-appointed school board; and led a major leadership pipeline for teachers.

“To identify the interventions aimed at solving tough problems in our communities, and then determine where philanthropic funding can achieve the most impact, requires an understanding of how these types of interventions work,” said Hans Dekker, President of CFNJ. “Aaron’s experience in government as well as the philanthropic sector have given her a unique perspective on what works and what doesn’t. We’re proud to have that kind of experience augment our team.”

Turner is active in New Jersey’s communities, currently serving on the boards of BRICK Education Network and Mentor Newark. She serves on the advisory boards of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Arts Education Committee and Gateway U in Newark.

“The opportunity to go deeper on system reforms, as part of a community of committed philanthropists, is one I am excited about,” said Turner. “I look forward to getting to know CFNJ’s fundholders and connecting them to the programs that are going to change our communities for the better.”

About the Community Foundation of New Jersey

The Community Foundation of New Jersey creates and scales custom solutions for purpose-driven individuals, families, and businesses. From creative projects that tackle critical societal or policy issues to scholarship funds, corporate philanthropy, legacy funds and donor advised funds, CFNJ manages nearly every kind of giving vehicle and tailors solutions to meet critical needs. CFNJ’s team of specialists understand the unique contours of communities and manage the scope of CFNJ investment and grantmaking capabilities with precision. With $800 million in assets, the Community Foundation grants tens of millions of dollars each year through its more than 1,100 funds. In 2021, CFNJ granted more than $100 million to nonprofits in New Jersey and beyond.

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