Esther Annan Selected as a Fellow for the Terrance Keenan Institute for Emerging Leaders in Health Philanthropy

Esther Annan, who serves as a program officer at The John R. Oishei Foundation, has been chosen to participate in the Terrance Keenan Institute for Emerging Leaders in Health Philanthropy through Grantmakers in Health.  She was one of 20 professionals chosen from throughout the United States through a competitive application and nomination process and the only representative from Western New York. 

The Terrance Keenan Institute for Emerging Leaders in Health Philanthropy is a biennial professional leadership development opportunity for health philanthropy’s next-generation leaders. It was created in 2009 to inspire future leaders as they seek to create a more just and equitable world and seeks to nurture the next generation of health grantmaking leaders and further their professional development. The Fellowship fosters relationships among the fellows; connects them with established figures in the field; and reflects key themes from Terrance Keenan’s work and writings such as leadership, innovation, taking risks, and the creative deployment of resources available to grantmakers.

While nominated by the Oishei Foundation’s past President, Robert D. Gioia, before he retired early this year, current Oishei President Christina P. Orsi was delighted with Annan’s appointment. She commented, “Esther brings deep expertise in the fields of mental health and social work to her role as a program officer managing our healthcare portfolio.  We are thrilled that she will have an opportunity for further learning and networking across the country to enhance her skills, knowledge, and connections that will help further the Foundation’s work and impact.”

Annan will participate in the institute that will take place October 12-13 in Washington, DC. It features a retreat-like format that includes a mix of structured discussions and unstructured networking. Topics reflect key themes from Keenan’s work and writings: placing people and ideas at the center of philanthropic work, embracing innovation, taking risks, and creatively deploying foundation resources.

The John R. Oishei Foundation is the most comprehensive private foundation in Western New York focusing on a broad range of interrelated issues and offering philanthropic support that goes far beyond funding. Our mission is to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life for the Buffalo Niagara region through grantmaking, leadership and network building. The Foundation was established in 1940 by John R. Oishei, founder of Trico Products Corporation.