The Elternsein Foundation has a new chair and an expanded board of trustees
Following the death of its founder and long-standing president, Dr Ellen Ringier, the Elternsein Foundation, publisher of the Swiss parenting magazine Fritz+Fränzi, has set a new course for the future. At Ellen Ringier's request, Robin Lingg will take over as chair of the foundation board, which will be expanded to include two high-profile new members.
Robin Lingg, an experienced entrepreneur and media manager, is taking over as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Elternsein Foundation. The 45-year-old is Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ringier Sports Media Group (RSMG) and a representative of the sixth generation of the Ringier family.
It is an honour for me to take over the chairmanship of the Elternsein Foundation and to continue Ellen Ringier's life's work.
Robin Lingg
As a shareholder of Switzerland's largest international media company, he brings many years of management experience from various board mandates and operational management positions. His in-depth expertise in the media industry, his operational experience and his network make him, alongside his role as a father of three, the ideal candidate for this responsible position.
«It is an honour for me to take over the chairmanship of the Elternsein Foundation and continue Ellen Ringier's life's work. Her vision of empowering parents and promoting dialogue between schools, families and society remains our guiding light,» said Robin Lingg.
New perspectives on the Foundation Board
Robin Lingg will be joined by two other prominent figures on the Foundation Board. Thomas Minder, President of the Swiss Association of School Heads (VSLCH), is one of the most committed leaders in Swiss education. As an active head teacher, the 49-year-old teacher knows the challenges of everyday school life first-hand. His close ties to teachers, parents and children make him a valuable voice on the board. He is also the father of three young adults who are about to complete their education or gain their first professional experience.
Mathilde Wittmer Thormann is a partner at Conduct AG, a Zurich-based specialist provider of family office and trust solutions. She heads up the philanthropy and charitable projects division. She advises high net worth families on estate planning and on setting up and managing charitable foundations and trusts. As president of a Swiss charitable foundation, she has been closely associated with the Elternsein foundation for many years, both as a supporter and out of personal conviction. The 45-year-old is the mother of a teenage daughter and has long been committed to issues relevant to parents.
Continuity and expansion: a strong team for the future
The existing members Ernesto Ferro (63, Vice-President) and Dr Eveline von Arx (50) will remain on the Foundation Board. Together with the new members, they will continue Ellen Ringier's initiative with commitment, foresight and passion. With the expansion of the Foundation Board, Ellen Ringier's life's work will be carried forward into a strong future – supported by people she knew personally, valued and trusted.
