NEF (Near East Foundation) -- 2007 Annual Report -- President's Message

The close of the 2007 fiscal year marked the end of my term as Interim President of NEF (Near East Foundation). My 14 months as president were rewarding, difficult, inspiring, life-changing--rather like my entire involvement with NEF since 1986. First, I was a staff fundraiser, then a member of the board of directors, and later chair of the board, but serving as president has given me the opportunity to see the organization "up close and personal." From this unique perspective, I have gained a deeper and renewed respect for the work we do in the Middle East and Africa.

Our team of professionals in the field--who execute that work--have always been the linchpin of this organization and the magnet that has kept me engaged through these two decades. But being in close contact with all of them on a daily basis has convinced me that they are why we are unique in the development world and why NEF is so worthy of your support. I want to thank all our valuable staff and acknowledge the help of many others who provided advice, counsel and partnership.

During my NEF presidency, I traveled to many places and added fascinating experiences to those accumulated during my long association with the organization. Space is too short here to catalogue them, but I may simply say that I am grateful to have seen the results of NEF's work in local empowerment, better living conditions, educated girls and women, increased income for families, and new environmental awareness in every country and every project. My time, resources, energy have been well spent.

INTRODUCTION

Now my tenure concludes and it is my pleasure to introduce NEF's new president, Alexander Papachristou, who is eminently qualified for the job, has an affinity for the region where we work, and the knowledge and abilities to help NEF grow. He brings to NEF a diverse background from both the business and not-for-profit sectors. An attorney by profession, Alex has had a distinguished career practicing law and managing a private equity firm investing in the former Soviet Republics. He also has played a leadership role on the boards of several foundations and organizations involved with international development, education and social welfare. A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, he also studied at American University in Cairo and importantly speaks Arabic as well as French and Russian.

I look forward to working with him over the next few years as NEF achieves a new level and moves toward a full century of service.

Linda K. Jacobs, Ph.D.
Interim President and former Chair of the Board