(Courtesy of AFMDA) Samuel Konig has been named director of strategic philanthropy of American Friends of Magen David Adom’s Northeast Region. He assumed his new role on August 14, 2023. A resident of Riverdale, Konig brings experience as a senior development executive and Hillel director.

American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA) is the U.S.-based fundraising affiliate for Israel’s national ambulance, EMT and blood-services organization, Magen David Adom. MDA also serves as Israel’s representative to the International Red Cross.

Konig is the former northeast regional director of American Friends of Bar-Ilan University. Prior to working with the university, he was director of major gifts at Hillel International and of the Hillel at Towson University and Hillel Canada.

Born in Vienna to Polish Jewish parents, Konig grew up in Copenhagen and speaks Danish, English, German, Polish and Hebrew. He holds an M.A. in European, Russian and Eurasian studies from Carleton University and a B.A. from McGill University.

“Sam already has many connections in Israeli and world Jewish philanthropy, a rich experience in resource development, and a passion for expanding Magen David Adom’s support in the Northeast and beyond. We look forward to working with him to bring our shared vision to life,” said Cathy Reed, CEO of American Friends of Magen David Adom.

“In my new role, I look forward to working with the Northeast Region’s development team to help increase awareness about the lifesaving work that Magen David Adom does in Israel and to expand funding for the emergency medical initiatives that allow the Israeli people to survive and thrive, even during difficult times,” Konig said. “It is my honor to help connect potential supporters to this innovative, compassionate organization.”

Konig is married to Aliza Abrams Konig, who works for Yeshiva University. They live in Riverdale, New York, where they are members of The Riverdale Minyan, and are the proud parents of Netanel, who attends SAR Academy and Moriyah.