For Immediate Release:
June 15, 2026
The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation Begins Search for New President & CEO
After 31 Years, President Jane Brown to Step Aside for New Generation of Leadership
BALTIMORE, MD – The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation today launched its search for a new President & CEO. After leading the private foundation for 31 years, current President & CEO Jane Brown plans to step aside later this year to make way for a new generation of leadership.
Established in 1991 by Dr. Robert W. Deutsch, the Foundation is a hyper-local and early investing philanthropic institution committed to improving the lives of Baltimore residents and strengthening the vitality of the city’s neighborhoods. In 2025, the Foundation awarded 98 grants with a total investment of $4.8 million in local organizations and initiatives, with a focus on arts and culture and community development.
As described in the job listing, the Foundation seeks a strategic, creative, imaginative leader to build on its philanthropic legacy at an important moment of possibility and momentum. Shepherding a $147 million endowment, the next leader will recognize talent, seek to invest early and take risks, and support innovators and partners in achieving success. While interested individuals are encouraged to apply early, applications will remain open through July 15.
“While I am immensely proud of everything the Foundation has accomplished over the last three decades, it is time for a new generation of leadership and ‘fresh eyes’ to guide us into the decades to come,” said Jane Brown, outgoing President & CEO of the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. “We are eager to speak to experienced applicants with a clear vision to carry the Foundation’s values forward and continue to expand our impact across Baltimore.”
Under Brown’s leadership, the Foundation founded the Baltimore Arts Realty Corporation (BARCO), a nonprofit real estate development corporation which provides safe, affordable, and quality workspace to Baltimore artists through projects such as Open Works and Motor House. Inspired by her exposure to Ruby Lerner and the Creative Capital Foundation in New York, Brown developed the Foundation’s annual Rubys Artist Awards program, which provides meaningful financial and professional development support to local emerging and mid-career artists. She was also an early supporter of Cara Ober's efforts to publish consistent arts focused journalism that showcases and highlights Baltimore artists through the BmoreArt publishing platform.
Brown’s history of support to artists and independent media began prior to her work at the Deutsch Foundation, and she will continue to pursue and support people and projects with her personal philanthropic resources in Baltimore and nationally.