The Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has announced that longtime trustee and Beverly Hills resident Mark N. Schwartz has assumed the role of chair of its Board of Trustees. Schwartz, an accomplished entrepreneur, respected business leader, and dedicated philanthropist, succeeds Evan Schlessinger, who served as chair for the past four years.
Schwartz has been deeply engaged with The Foundation for 25 years, actively contributing financial acumen and strategic expertise to its grantmaking initiatives and investment management. He has served in multiple leadership capacities, including on Foundation grants, executive and finance committees. As a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in venture capital and business leadership, Schwartz brings an experience that will strengthen The Foundation’s focus on innovative philanthropy and impactful grantmaking.
“For many years, The Foundation has been a trusted partner in my family’s philanthropy,” said Schwartz. “It is an honor to step into this role and help guide an organization that is deeply committed to strengthening the Jewish community in Los Angeles and the community at large. Having been involved in The Foundation’s grantmaking and financial stewardship for more than two decades, I look forward to continuing to grow The Foundation and expand its impact throughout our community and in Israel.”
Schwartz and his wife, Lisa, a city of Beverly Hills Commissioner, are strongly committed to tikkun olam, the Jewish value of repairing the world. Together, they support numerous charitable initiatives, spanning Jewish causes, Israeli organizations, and broader community endeavors.
Aaron Lerner, president and CEO of The Foundation, welcomed Schwartz’s appointment, stating, “Mark’s entrepreneurial spirit, strategic vision, and deep commitment to philanthropy make him an exceptional lay leader for The Foundation’s next chapter. His expertise in financial stewardship and community engagement will help propel our mission forward, ensuring that we continue to make a meaningful and lasting impact in our Jewish community and beyond.”
The Foundation, which has been at the forefront of Jewish philanthropy in Los Angeles for more than 70 years, distributed over $200 million in grants in 2024 to more than 3,600 nonprofits locally, nationally, and in Israel. Under Schwartz’s leadership, the organization plans to further its mission of empowering Jewish philanthropists and strengthening the community.
