Meet Ellen G. van der Horst – Community Leader and GCF Governing Board Chair

Ellen G. van der Horst is the governing board chair of Greater Cincinnati Foundation (GCF), a philanthropist and a lifelong community servant. After graduating from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, Ellen moved to Cincinnati to accept a job at P&G, followed by remarkable leadership roles with PNC Financial Services and the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.

Throughout Ellen’s professional career and in retirement, Ellen’s civic commitments display an amazing love for her community, advancement of the arts, and dedication to the future vibrancy of the region. She’s held board positions at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Opera, ArtsWave, The Seven Hills School, TriVersity Construction Company, and more.

As the leader of GCF’s governing board, Ellen recently played a significant role in developing an ambitious 10-year strategic plan in collaboration with the staff and community stakeholders.

When asked why she’s so involved with GCF, Ellen expressed that giving back is in her DNA. She believes that GCF’s ability to amplify impact in the region is special. “So much of what GCF does these days excites me…the unique ability to connect generous people with impactful and effective nonprofit organizations to make a difference in this region, to make sure that everyone has a fair chance to succeed – that really excites me.”

At GCF, we’re grateful for the opportunity to work with talented people like Ellen to make an impact in a community that has given so much to so many people. As Ellen mentioned, “any one individual can really make a difference here.” We encourage you to contribute your time, talent or treasure to building a vibrant region where everyone has an opportunity to thrive.