Next in the series is Ellen Rosen, a retired lawyer and business executive and current President of the Board. In addition to discussing her background, she shares her ideas about the Foundation’s future.
Background & Career: Rosen grew up in Swarthmore and attended Oberlin College, where she majored in sociology and enjoyed free concerts. After attending Villanova Law School, she worked as an in-house lawyer for insurance companies, handling business matters.
She was introduced to music as her father, a jazz fan, regularly played records on their stereo in their living room. “I was lucky to be exposed to music at an early age.”
Music Involvement: Rosen is a fan of a broad swath of music, from classical to jazz to singer/songwriters. She enjoys performances by The Philadelphia Orchestra, the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society (PCMS), Ars Nova Workshop, and Dolce Suono Ensemble. Music is a family affair, her son is a musician, her daughter enjoys singing and her husband still takes piano lessons.
Rosen loves music’s ability to tap into emotions and connect people. She deeply admires the creative spirit of musicians.
How Did She Learn About The Presser Foundation?: She learned about the Foundation from fellow Trustee Sharon Sorokin, and thought it unique and interesting that the Foundation specifically gave money to music. She joined the Board in 2014.
Role at the Foundation: President of the Board of Trustees
What She Enjoys: Rosen enjoys participating in the Foundation’s activities and grants, valuing the ability to focus on music. She also likes learning from other Trustees who have a variety of perspectives and experiences.
Favorite Memory of Being on the Board: Co-leading the Foundation’s work in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has been incredibly fulfilling for Rosen. She has enjoyed learning from other Trustees’ as the Foundation’s work has evolved.
Impact of the Foundation: Rosen believes that one of the biggest impacts of the Foundation comes from the Advancement of Music program which, unlike many other funders, provides general operating support grants. “Nonprofits know best what their organizations need.” She also highlights the Foundation’s simple application and reporting process as another important practice.
Role in Leading the Foundation’s DEI Work: In 2019, Rosen and Executive Director Teresa Rodgers participated in a Philanthropy Network Greater Philadelphia Equity Cohort. This year-long initiative led to the Foundation’s efforts to update grantmaking and board practices. As part of an action step after the cohort concluded, the Foundation approved the creation of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force. Rosen chaired the Task Force and then became the first chair of the standing DEI Committee before assuming the Presidency in July 2023.
Thoughts on the Strategic Planning Process: To consider its next steps in centering equity, the Board initiated a strategic planning process with consulting firm 8 Bridges Workshop.
As the Foundation undergoes this process, Rosen shared that it’s an exciting time to consider big ideas. “At this point, we’ve felt that we’ve completed some of the easier efforts and we’re now asking the bigger questions. We’re assessing where the world of music is, and how best to use the resources of The Presser Foundation to forward our mission. We’re capturing everyone’s ideas and going through them to determine the best path forward.”
“We’re at an exciting time of change while also honoring Theodore Presser’s vision to provide ongoing support of music.”
What Does She Do in Her Free Time?: In her free time, Rosen enjoys going to see live music and the theater, visiting with family and friends, reading and spending time with her grandchild.
