The Board of Directors of the Puerto Rico Community Foundation (FCPR), through its president Miguel Vargas L. Jiménez, announced the transition of executive leadership of the organization, marking the end of an extraordinary career of service by Dr. Nelson I. Colón Tarrats and the beginning of a new phase under the presidency of Ms. Vivian I. Neptune Rivera.
“After 39 years of uninterrupted service to the organization – including 26 years as president – Dr. Colón Tarrats will retire from his position, leaving a transformative legacy that has solidified the Foundation as one of the leading philanthropic institutions in the country. During his leadership, the Puerto Rico Community Foundation strengthened its role as a driver of social investment, channeling resources to vulnerable communities, promoting inclusive economic development, and responding with agility to critical moments in the Island’s recent history. In turn, Dr. Colón Tarrats has been a key voice internationally in promoting racial equity in the Americas and in strengthening the philanthropic sector's role as an agent of change,” expressed Miguel Vargas Jiménez.
“It has been the honor of my life to dedicate almost four decades to building and strengthening an institution that deeply believes in the power of philanthropy to transform lives and communities. Today, with a strong, resilient, and well-positioned Foundation, it is time to make way for a new stage of leadership that will continue to expand that impact,” stated Dr. Nelson I. Colón Tarrats.
As part of the transition process, attorney Vivian I. Neptune Rivera will assume the presidency of the organization starting May 15, 2026. Neptune Rivera has a close relationship with the Foundation, having served on its Board of Directors for the past 12 years, where she actively contributed to strengthening its mission and institutional vision.
“Dr. Colón Tarrats” leadership has been fundamental to the growth and credibility of the Puerto Rico Community Foundation. We are deeply grateful for his vision and commitment. This transition has been carefully designed to ensure continuity, stability, and the strengthening of our mission. We are enthusiastic to welcome Vivian Neptune Rivera, Esq. as the new president," added Vargas Jiménez.
Attorney Neptune Rivera assumes the presidency at a key moment for the development of the philanthropic sector in Puerto Rico, with a commitment to continue promoting initiatives that foster equity, community resilience, and access to opportunities for all.
“For the past 12 years, I've had the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors of the Puerto Rico Community Foundation, witnessing the profound impact this organization has on our communities. Taking on the presidency now represents an opportunity to continue serving Puerto Rico from the philanthropic sector, strengthening alliances, and expanding the reach of our work for the benefit of the country. Today, more than ever, the role of civil society is central in creating alliances and collaborative proposals with the common good as our guide. It is an immense honor and privilege to continue Dr. Colón's legacy, based on real equity and an unwavering commitment to the full development of our communities,” stated Attorney Neptune Rivera.
The new president and current Dean of the University of Puerto Rico's School of Law, the first woman to hold this position in over a century, possesses a strong academic background and has distinguished herself by driving significant innovations during her tenure as dean, such as the creation of new legal aid clinics, unique academic programs, and support centers for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, she has received prestigious awards for her work in access to justice and pro bono work on the island. Her commitment to service is also reflected in her participation on the boards of directors of philanthropic organizations in Puerto Rico, including the Board of Directors of the Puerto Rico Community Foundation.
In order to ensure an orderly, transparent transition aligned with the organization's strategic priorities, Dr. Colón Tarrats will continue to collaborate as an advisory president to Ms. Neptune Rivera and the Board of Directors until December 2026.
“I am fully confident that the future of the Puerto Rico Community Foundation is in the best hands. Ms. Vivian Neptune has the knowledge, commitment, and vision necessary to continue elevating our mission and expanding the Foundation's impact in the communities we serve,” added Dr. Colón Tarrats.
With over four decades of history, the Puerto Rico Community Foundation has established itself as a pillar of the philanthropic sector on the Island and a benchmark in the Americas, promoting social investment models that strengthen community resilience, equity, and sustainable development. This leadership transition reaffirms the organization's institutional strength and its ongoing commitment to mobilizing resources, articulating multisectoral alliances, and generating lasting impact in Puerto Rico's communities.