The New York Women's Foundation names Tanya M. Odom co-chair

The New York Women's Foundation has appointed Tanya M. Odom as co-chair of its Board of Directors alongside Mary Baglivo. The move adds an experienced leader as the foundation continues funding community-led solutions for women, girls and gender-expansive people across New York City.

Why it matters: - Tanya M. Odom will help steer one of the largest women-led grantmaking organizations in the world. - The appointment comes as The New York Women's Foundation keeps investing in community-led solutions that expand opportunity for women, girls and gender-expansive people across New York City. - The role places Odom in a leadership position tied directly to the foundation's strategic direction and board governance.

What happened: - The New York Women's Foundation appointed Tanya M. Odom as co-chair of its Board of Directors. - Odom will serve alongside Mary Baglivo. - The announcement was made Aug. 4, 2026, in New York City.

The details: - Odom has spent more than 25 years working with organizations in more than 40 countries. - Her work has focused on inclusive leadership, wellbeing, difficult conversations and organizational change. - Her career has spanned education, philanthropy, business, nonprofits, arts and culture, law enforcement and higher education. - Odom is the co-author of Evaluation in the Field of Education for Democracy, Human Rights and Tolerance. - Her writing has appeared in CNN.com, Bloomberg News, Fortune and The Huffington Post. - Entrepreneur Magazine and Influence Digest recognized Odom, with Influence Digest naming her one of New York City's Top 15 Coaches in 2022. - Ana L. Oliveira, president and CEO of The New York Women's Foundation, said Odom's leadership and commitment to collaboration have made her an invaluable board member. - Oliveira said Odom's leadership as co-chair will help guide the foundation as it advances its mission.

Between the lines: - The appointment signals that the foundation is elevating a leader whose background blends cross-sector advisory work with public-facing thought leadership. - Odom's experience in multiple industries suggests the board wants broad strategic perspective as it pursues community-rooted philanthropy. - The foundation's leadership choice also underscores continuity, since Odom is stepping into a role alongside an existing co-chair rather than replacing a sole chair.

What's next: - Odom will help guide the board's strategic leadership. - The foundation will continue backing community-led solutions designed to strengthen the lives of women, girls and gender-expansive people in New York City. - The New York Women's Foundation directs readers to more information.