The Independence Blue Cross Foundation announced two leadership appointments as it enters its 15th year. Heather Major was named President of the Foundation, and Rhonda R. Mims joined the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
A member of the Foundation team for more than 14 years, Major most recently served as Executive Director. She has helped guide the foundation’s philanthropic strategy and advance the foundation’s leadership in nursing and community health, earning the foundation national recognition for its Service Scholars program, the first pathway in education for student veterans to become nurses.
“Over the last 15 years, the Independence Blue Cross Foundation has invested in more than 240 organizations and initiatives that have expanded access to care, strengthened community-based health services, and improved health outcomes across our region,” said Kelly Munson, President and CEO of Independence Health Group. “Heather has been instrumental in building many of these partnerships, and her leadership and vision will help the Foundation continue to grow its impact for years to come.”
As President, Major will lead the Foundation’s efforts and its long-standing support for the region’s healthcare safety net, health workforce, and community health needs. By the end of 2026, the foundation will have distributed $100 million in nonprofit funding to area programs and services that reach nearly 250,000 individuals annually. Major succeeds Lorina Marshall-Blake, who recently retired after leading the organization since its founding 15 years ago.
“For 15 years, the Independence Blue Cross Foundation has invested in organizations and initiatives that benefit southeastern Pennsylvania communities” Major said. “I am honored to lead the work I have been a part of since the Foundation’s beginning in collaboration with our board and partners.”
The Foundation also announced the appointment of Rhonda R. Mims to its Board of Directors. Mims is a nationally recognized executive, strategic advisor, and corporate governance expert. She currently oversees government relations, communications, marketing, compliance, and risk for AmeriHealth Caritas, a national organization serving millions of Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace members.
About the Independence Blue Cross Foundation
The Independence Blue Cross (IBX) Foundation is positively impacting health. In 2026, the IBX Foundation proudly marks 15 years of leading initiatives for a healthier community:
- Improving healthcare access
- Strengthening the health workforce
- Enabling solutions for better community health
Learn more by visiting our website: ibxfoundation.org. Connect with the Independence Blue Cross Foundation on LinkedIn.
