Ellen Hwang will join the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to focus on local government in Philadelphia.
Hwang will work with local leaders and other community members to find and invest in opportunities that support a more informed and engaged Philadelphia. Knight’s Philadelphia program has recently included significant investments in building public spaces that connect people to place and to each other. She will start on April 22, 2019.
This is an evolution for Hwang who is already a leader in Philadelphia government. She recently led the SmartCityPHL initiative, creating the roadmap for that project with backing from the Knight Foundation.
“Ellen brings to Knight a deep understanding of Philadelphia, both as a lifelong resident and a leader in public administration,” said Sam Gill, vice president of communities and impact for Knight Foundation.
Before working with the City of Philadelphia, she directed programs at the city’s Asian Arts Initiative, collaborating with the community, as well as artists, culture-based organizations and schools to develop and implement youth programs.
Hwang will replace Patrick Morris who left the role over the summer to join the parks and recreation department in the city. Morris is leading strategy for the department which is a newly created role within the department.
