Distinguished healthcare philanthropy leader brings decades of experience to advance RMH-NY’s mission and guide the organization’s next phase of impact
NEW YORK, January 12, 2026 – Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY) today announced the appointment of Lucretia Gilbert as its next President & Chief Executive Officer effective January 26, 2026. Gilbert will succeed Dr. Ruth C. Browne, following nearly a decade of organizational growth and impact under her leadership.
A visionary nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience, Gilbert brings a notable track record of driving sustained growth, mobilizing philanthropic investment, and advancing renowned mission-driven organizations across the healthcare and social impact sectors. She joins RMH-NY most recently from the Elton John AIDS Foundation, where she served as Chief Philanthropy Officer for five years, following a 13-year tenure at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the world’s largest private funder of breast cancer research.
“Lucretia’s experience, leadership, and passion for our mission make her the ideal choice to lead Ronald McDonald House New York into its next chapter,” said Steven J. Bensinger, Chairman of RMH-NY’s Board of Directors. “She brings strategic vision, a strong record of building enduring partnerships, and a leadership style grounded in transparency, empathy, and accountability. I am confident that Lucretia will champion our mission, advance our health equity goals, and guide the organization’s continued evolution while deepening our impact for the children and families we serve.”
At the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Gilbert helped spearhead a transformational $200 million global campaign to expand access to care and prevention services. Previously, as Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, she led a high-performing development enterprise that generated more than $800 million in revenue, significantly expanding the organization’s worldwide impact. She also simultaneously served as Executive Director of The Pink Agenda, where she developed cross-generational engagement strategies and innovative partnerships to cultivate emerging philanthropists.
Earlier in her career, Gilbert held senior leadership roles at Gilda’s Club Worldwide and the ALS Association Greater New York Chapter, further strengthening her expertise in major gifts, strategic campaigns, events, and donor engagement. Across every role, she has been recognized for building strong teams, strengthening governance, and creating cultures rooted in excellence and innovation.
Gilbert holds a Master of Public Administration from New York University and completed Harvard University’s Kennedy School Executive Education Program in Exponential Fundraising. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Pink Agenda and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP-NYC) and previously served on the Board of Directors of the New York Junior League.
Gilbert’s appointment follows the completion of Dr. Browne’s remarkable tenure as President & CEO, during which RMH-NY significantly broadened its reach and impact. Under her leadership, the House expanded hospital-based Family Room partnerships, enhanced programs and services to meet families’ evolving needs, and strengthened its role as a cornerstone of care—advancing healthy equity for children battling pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses.
“I am deeply grateful to Ruth for her extraordinary leadership and dedication to Ronald McDonald House New York,” Bensinger added. “Her legacy is one of compassion, progress, and enduring impact, and we thank her for the strong foundation she leaves for the organization’s future.”
RMH-NY supports families from NYC, across the U.S. and around the world in the fight against pediatric cancer and other serious pediatric illnesses through its House on the Upper East Side in Manhattan as well as in partnering NYC hospitals.
