History

The New York State Health Foundation (NYSHealth) is a private statewide foundation dedicated to improving the health of all New Yorkers.

Our roots are in insurance. NYSHealth was established to receive the charitable funds resulting from the conversion of Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield from a nonprofit organization to a for-profit corporation. A State statute allocated 5% of the market value of Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield to create the Foundation.

A nine-member Board of Directors governs and guides NYSHealth. One-third of the Board members are appointed by New York’s Governor, one-third by the President of the State Senate, and one-third by the State Assembly Leader. Board members serve three-year renewable terms.

The Board’s search for a president and chief executive officer was concluded in April 2006 with the selection of James R. Knickman, Ph.D.

In December 2006, the Foundation awarded its inaugural round of grants: $5.7 million to 23 grantees chosen from more than 600 applicants. The second round of competitive grants targeted health care costs and insurance coverage, diabetes, and special opportunities. Under these initiatives, the Foundation awarded $12 million to grantees in December 2007.