Katherine Lorenz named to inaugural TIME 100 Philanthropy

AUSTIN (May 20, 2025)—Katherine Lorenz, president of the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation (CGMF), has been named to the inaugural TIME 100 Philanthropy, recognizing singular figures who are shaping the future of giving. The announcement coincides with the release of the special edition on TIME's website today.

Lorenz, the granddaughter of the late philanthropists Cynthia and George P. Mitchell, has led CGMF since 2011, guiding the foundation's strategic investments in advanced energy, land conservation, water, and other sustainability initiatives across Texas and beyond. Under her leadership, the foundation has continued to build upon its 47-year legacy of innovative grantmaking.

"Katherine exemplifies the thoughtful, strategic approach to philanthropy that the Mitchell legacy represents," said Grant Mitchell, chair of the CGMF board. "Her leadership both at our foundation and within the broader philanthropic community continues to advance sustainable solutions to complex environmental and social challenges."

In addition to her role at CGMF, Lorenz leads the Next Gen of the Giving Pledge, a group of more than 300 children and grandchildren of Giving Pledge signatories who are shaping the future of global philanthropy. This initiative brings together next-generation philanthropists from around the world to share resources, experiences, and best practices.

"This recognition from TIME reflects the collaborative spirit and transformative vision that has defined the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation since its inception," said Lorenz. "My grandparents believed deeply in the power of philanthropy to address the world's most pressing challenges, and I'm honored to continue their work alongside our dedicated team, grantees, and thought partners."

Lorenz's philanthropic career began in Oaxaca, Mexico, where she co-founded and directed Puente a la Salud Comunitaria, a nonprofit organization working to advance food sovereignty in rural communities. She continues to serve as an active board member for Puente while also holding leadership positions with the Environmental Defense Fund (vice-chair), Aspen Community Foundation, and the Tinker Foundation.

The TIME 100 Philanthropy highlights individuals who are driving innovation and impact in the philanthropic sector. The full list will appear in the June 9, 2025 issue of TIME, available on newsstands on Friday, May 30.

For more information, visit www.cgmf.org or contact Brett Holmes at bholmes@cgmf.org or (713) 244-4178.

About the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation

The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation is a mission-driven grantmaking organization that champions innovative, sustainable solutions at the intersection of environmental protection, social equity, and economic vibrancy. Cynthia dedicated her life to arts, education, and humanitarian causes, while George, a renaissance energy and development entrepreneur, revitalized his hometown of Galveston and pursued sustainable answers to complex challenges.

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