As she concludes her term as Women’s Philanthropy (WP) President at the Jewish Federation of Detroit, Nancy Glen reflects a leadership style rooted in listening, relationships, and a deep commitment to Jewish community. She will be honored for her service at the upcoming Women’s Philanthropy Annual Meeting.
Nancy Glen’s leadership is rooted in a simple, powerful belief: people do their best work—and build the strongest community—when they feel heard. Throughout her time with Women’s Philanthropy and the Jewish Federation of Detroit, she is known for listening closely, welcoming a range of perspectives, and leading in a way that invites others in.
That approach, steady, intentional and relationship-driven has helped cultivate trust among donors, volunteers and partners, and has reinforced Women’s Philanthropy as a place where more women can find belonging, purpose and a meaningful way to give back.
Michigan roots, community values
A Southfield native, Nancy attended Michigan State University and the University of Detroit Law School before making her home in Huntington Woods with her husband, Ralph, and raising their three children. Shaped by her upbringing and a strong sense of community, she brings a gift for connection into her volunteer life—showing up consistently, seeking out perspectives, and helping others feel seen and valued.
A leadership path built on service
Throughout her long-time involvement with Federation and Women’s Philanthropy, Nancy has stepped into roles that shape both strategy and impact—from Planning and Allocations to Partnership2Gether and Campaign leadership. Today, she serves on Federation’s Executive Committee and Board of Governors. In every setting, she leads with intention and a strong sense of Jewish values—creating space for honest conversation and encouraging others to bring their ideas to the table.
Committed to Israel and the Jewish future
Nancy’s Federation involvement reflects a strong commitment to Jewish peoplehood, meeting needs close to home while also sustaining the connections that strengthen Jewish life and community. In her view, philanthropy isn’t only about the dollars raised—it is also about identity, continuity and helping every generation feel connected to something larger than themselves.
There are countless ways to measure leadership—funds raised, programs strengthened, new people welcomed in. For Nancy, the through line has been consistent: authenticity, listening and an unwavering commitment to helping more women feel connected to Women’s Philanthropy and the Federation’s mission. We had the chance to sit down with Nancy and find out just what makes her Federation involvement so special.
On leadership: When you think about your time as a Federation and WP leader, what leadership lesson has guided you most?
A guiding principle for me was authenticity. I hope that I fostered and built a sense of trust, that women and donors see my commitment to the mission as genuine. I hope I have led with honesty and integrity that is anchored in tradition and our Jewish identity and values.
I hope that by leading with purpose, I inspired others to act with the same intention.
On listening: You’ve shared that “everyone has a voice, and everyone’s voice matters.” How did that principle shape the way you led WP and partnered with staff and lay leaders?
That principle was a cornerstone of my leadership style. By actively seeking out perspectives that don’t always align with my own, I believe I was able to build trust among staff and lay leaders. Being respectful of others and providing people the space to share is fundamental to our Jewish values. Not only does it foster a sense of community and belonging, it also encourages openness and empathy where every person feels heard and invested in our collective success.
On impact: What are you proudest of accomplishing during your presidency, especially moments that reflect WP’s collective strength?
Providing women a sense of belonging. Expand our community of women and empowering them to find their place and purpose within WP and the Federation.
Our annual Signature community fundraisers allowed women to share meaningful experiences and celebrate our philanthropic efforts. Our Pappas Impaction Mission to Israel confirmed our strong and ongoing commitment to the future of our people, while our recent trip to Mexico City provided education and connection. And collectively we brought Jewish joy even in dark times.
On Federation’s mission: What do you wish more people understood about what Federation makes possible—here in Detroit, in Israel, and globally?
That each person understands they are touched in some way by the work of Federation.
That Federation’s collaboration with local organizations amplifies the impact of our initiatives.
That engaging in philanthropy strengthens our Jewish and cultural identity for every generation.
On the future: As you transition from WP President, what excites you about what’s next for Women’s Philanthropy and for Federation?
What excites me most is the incredible momentum we’ve built around engagement and philanthropy. The passion and compassion women bring to this work is the heartbeat of our Federation. Seeing the next generation’s dedication to our community is inspiring and gives me immense confidence in our future. As I transition, I look forward to seeing energy continue to expand and transform more lives.
