Washington, DC.  The Board of Directors of the New Israel Fund has unanimously approved the selection of Daniel J. Sokatch as the new NIF Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Larry Garber.  Mr. Sokatch will manage a $30 million Israel-Diaspora partnership, the leading organization committed to equality and democracy for all Israelis.  The New Israel Fund is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its founding in its birthplace city, San Francisco, this evening.

“We are incredibly thrilled by this development,” said NIF President Naomi Chazan.  “Daniel is an experienced professional, passionate about our causes, committed to our values and has a long connection with NIF.  He has a proven track record as a visionary, fundraiser and manager, and has a deep love for and understanding of Israel and its current challenges.”

Mr. Sokatch is a lawyer by training and has a Masters Degree in Middle Eastern Studies.  He was the Founding Executive Director of the Progressive Jewish Alliance in July 2000 and transformed the organization into a leading Jewish voice for ensuring social and economic justice, promoting equality and diversity, and pursuing dialogue and peace.  In 2008, Daniel was selected as the Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties.

“Becoming CEO of the New Israel Fund is truly the fulfillment of a long-time dream,” Mr. Sokatch said.  “There has never been a more critically important time to ensure that Israel lives up to the values and dreams of its founders.  Standing up for our progressive values, and working to secure Israel’s future as a vibrant democracy, is our task and our mission.”