Rehana Abbas
Chief Philanthropy Officer
Why do you do what you do?
I believe in the power of philanthropy to be a force for good in the world, and also that this is a time to challenge the status quo. I love building relationships with donors to think strategically together about how we can mutually meet philanthropic goals. It’s exciting to know that the resources we are able to generate are directly going to change inequitable systems.
What drew you to the foundation?
I’m raising a son here in San Francisco, and I have spent a lot of time thinking about what kind of Bay Area I hope he will grow up in. I love this region, and I recognize that there are some real challenges that we face here, but also incredible community and opportunity. Our work at the foundation will help to make sure that all kids in the Bay Area have access to opportunities for generations to come.
How would you describe your role?
I facilitate the movement of resources for racial equity and economic opportunity. I work closely with individuals and institutions who believe in the mission of the foundation and want to champion our work through the many ways that they can get involved in the San Francisco Foundation.
Full Biography
Rehana brings more than 15 years of nonprofit experience to her role as San Francisco Foundation’s Chief Philanthropy Officer. At SFF, she utilizes her expertise in fundraising and nonprofit strategy to raise funds and engage donors in the foundation’s commitment to social justice and racial equity throughout the Bay Area.
Before joining the foundation, she served as the Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Oakland Museum of California, where she successfully led their $85 million campaign and worked to center anti-racist fundraising principles in the Museum’s fund development. Previously, she was SFMOMA’s Senior Director of Individual Giving during its $650 million campaign and reopening in 2016. She is the chair of the board of Children’s Council of San Francisco. She has a BA from Wake Forest University, and an MBA from the Yale School of Management.