Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF) has welcomed Russell “Russ” Cronin as its new Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Operations bringing both strong professional expertise and a meaningful local connection to the organization’s leadership team.

Cronin was raised in Virginia Beach’s Kempsville area and earned his bachelor’s degree in accountancy from Virginia Commonwealth University. After building a career that spans banking, corporate treasury, and community foundation leadership, he is returning to Tidewater with a perspective shaped by both financial stewardship and mission-driven service.

Cronin spent much of his career in banking, specializing in treasury and financial operations. He later transitioned into philanthropy, working with Adirondack Community Foundation, where he gained experience supporting donors and nonprofits through strategic giving. In 2019, he returned to financial institution leadership at Adirondack Regional Federal Credit Union, ultimately serving as its CEO.

For Cronin, TJF represents an opportunity to bring the best of both worlds, sound financial management and purposeful community investment.

“TJF is an organization that’s thinking long-term about sustainability, operational excellence, and lasting community impact,” Cronin said. “I’m excited to help TJF continue building the structure and momentum needed for the work ahead.” He added, “I love investment management.”

Naomi Limor Sedek, TJF’s President & CEO, said she is thrilled to welcome Cronin and confident in what his leadership will bring to the foundation’s future. “Russ brings a unique blend of financial leadership and community foundation experience,” Sedek said. “His expertise will strengthen our operations, build relationships with professional advisors and help TJF continue to advance our mission with excellence, integrity, and long-term vision.”

As he begins this next chapter, Cronin is focused on listening, learning, and building strong relationships across the community, work he sees as essential to TJF’s continued growth and impact.

Send a welcome message to Russ at rcronin@tjfva.org