Following a nationwide search, the New York Health Foundation (NYHealth) board of directors unanimously selected David Sandman, Ph.D., as the foundation’s next president and CEO.

Sandman has been the foundation’s senior vice president since 2008, after serving as executive director of the commission on health care facilities in the 21st century (the “Berger Commission”) and in senior positions at Manatt Health Solutions, Harris Interactive and the Commonwealth Fund.

“After conducting a thorough national search, we were thrilled to find that the person best suited to be the foundation’s next CEO was right here at NYHealth,” said Ellen Rautenberg, chair of the foundation’s board of directors. “David’s experience and expertise in the world of New York health care, public policy, and in philanthropy position him perfectly to lead NYHealth in its next chapter. His passion for our work is palpable, and he balances that with the patience and pragmatism required to effect meaningful social change.”

“I am honored to have been chosen as the New York Health Foundation’s next CEO, and I can’t wait to get started,” said Sandman. “In its first 10 years, the foundation has established itself as a vital player working to help New Yorkers stay healthy and ensure our health care system meets patients’ needs. I look forward to building on that work, focusing our energy in these important areas, and being responsive to new opportunities.”

Sandman will begin his new role effective March 1, following the departure of founding president and CEO James R. Knickman, Ph.D., who is joining the faculty of New York University, where he will have a joint appointment in NYU Langone Medical Center’s Department of Population Health and NYU’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. Knickman will hold the Robert Derzon Chair in Health and Public Service.

“All of us on the NYHealth Board are grateful to Jim Knickman for his leadership of the organization since its inception,” said Rautenberg. “He shaped the foundation into a strong force in New York’s health landscape that has made a meaningful difference for the health and well-being of New Yorkers.”

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