NEW YORK, NY — 1/9/2026 —A Joint Letter to Our Grantees, Partners, and Colleagues
As we look ahead to the new year, we write together to mark an important moment in the life of The Charles H. Revson Foundation—one defined by continuity, stewardship, and renewal. After eighteen years of extraordinary leadership, Julie Sandorf passes the baton to Maria Torres-Springer, who assumed the role on January 5. We have been heartened by the many conversations surrounding this transition, which reflect a shared understanding of the stakes of this moment and a deep respect for the Foundation’s nearly 50-year legacy. This transition reflects the Foundation’s long-held belief—shared by its Trustees—that leadership matters, and that how responsibility is passed from one generation to the next matters just as much.
Over nearly two decades, Julie has guided Revson with clarity of purpose and moral imagination, strengthening its impact across biomedical research, urban affairs, and Jewish life. She has led with the conviction that philanthropy must meet complexity with rigor and humility, and that institutions are at their best when they are steady, principled, and willing to take the long view. Revson’s standing as a trusted and catalytic partner is a testament not only to her leadership, but to the Trustees, grantees, and partners who do the daily work of turning values into impact.
Maria steps into this role at a moment of real urgency—and real possibility. The challenges Revson engages, from scientific discovery to the health of civic life, from equal access to opportunity, to community and belonging, are not abstract. They shape lives, neighborhoods, and futures. Revson’s work—advancing knowledge, strengthening New York City, and nurturing vibrant Jewish life—has never been more essential. The Foundation will continue to invest in ideas and institutions that respond to this moment with seriousness, imagination, and care.
This transition is also a beginning. Maria brings to Revson a career grounded in public service, coalition-building, and a belief that institutions matter most when they listen, learn, and act in partnership with others. She has often said that public service is an act of love—and she believes the same is true of philanthropy: that it is, at its best, an expression of care, responsibility, and optimism about what is possible. For Maria, Revson’s commitment to Jewish life—including its enduring connection to Israel—holds particular meaning, grounded in care for community, history, and the ongoing work of repair. She is deeply committed to stewarding this work with care and ambition—honoring the Foundation’s role in sustaining vibrant Jewish institutions while supporting new expressions of learning, culture, and belonging for the next generation. In the months ahead, she looks forward to listening closely, learning from partners, and building relationships across Revson’s program areas as this next chapter takes shape.
We are profoundly grateful to all of you who make Revson’s work possible. At a time when the need for thoughtful, values-driven institutions has never been greater, your partnership and trust are the Foundation’s greatest strength. As we move forward together, we do so with gratitude for the leadership that has brought us here, confidence in Revson’s enduring mission, and a shared sense of possibility for the work ahead.
With appreciation and best wishes for a happy, peaceful and fruitful new year,
Julie Sandorf & Maria Torres-Springer
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For inquiries, please contact: Kiryat Hance at announcements@revsonfoundation.org