Washington DC, January 17, 2025 — UNRWA USA National Committee (UNRWA USA) is pleased to announce Dr. Rajaie Batniji as the nonprofit's new Board Chairperson, effective January 1, 2025. A physician, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for health equity, Dr. Batniji brings a wonderful combination of leadership, healthcare innovation, and a deeply personal connection to Palestine.

Born in the Gaza Strip and raised in California, Dr. Batniji has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of military occupation and violence, including the tragic loss of family members in Gaza in Israeli military assaults.

Dr. Batniji is the founder of healthcare technology companies, and is currently leading a company that is improving access and care for people covered by Medicaid benefits. Batniji’s research has been published in top international medical journals, and his work has also been featured in major media, including the New York Times, CNN, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Forbes, and STAT, among others. 

Dr. Batniji was previously clinical assistant professor of medicine at Stanford University. He holds BA and MA degrees in History from Stanford University, an MD from the University of California, San Francisco, and a doctorate in Politics and International Relations from Oxford University, where he studied as a Marshall Scholar. He is a physician and leader committed to health equity and also serves on the board of directors for Refugees International. 

“We are truly honored to have Dr. Batniji take on this important role,” said Mara Kronenfeld, Executive Director of UNRWA USA. “His leadership, personal story as a Palestinian from Gaza, and dedication to equity will be a powerful force as we continue advocating for the rights and dignity of Palestine refugees.”

Dr. Batniji succeeds Ghassan Salameh, who has served as an UNRWA USA board member for the past 12 years, including as Chair since 2018. Ghassan, a Palestinian refugee and graduate of UNRWA schools in Lebanon, has been a cornerstone of UNRWA USA’s success over the past decade. His sharp business acumen and forward-thinking approach have been integral in elevating the organization. UNRWA USA is deeply grateful for his exceptional service and commitment.

“It is an honor to follow in Ghassan’s footsteps,” said Dr. Batniji. “He has laid a strong foundation for this organization, and I look forward to working closely with Mara and our exceptional board members to continue to grow the influence of UNRWA USA at this critical moment. Together, we will continue to elevate the voices of Palestine refugees and build broad American support for the resources they need—not just to survive, but to thrive.”

Dr. Batniji is joined by a distinguished group of board members, each of whom brings invaluable expertise and passion to advancing UNRWA USA’s mission. To learn more about the Board and its members, please visit unrwausa.org/our-people.

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About UNRWA USA National Committee (UNRWA USA)

UNRWA USA is an independent nonprofit organization that provides support for the humanitarian work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). UNRWA USA lifts up the voices, experiences, and humanity of Palestine refugees to secure American support for resources essential to every human being, for the promise of a better life. US taxpayers are eligible for tax deductions for donations made through UNRWA USA. 

Media Contact: For more information, contact Laila Mokhiber, Senior Director of Communications, UNRWA USA, by phone at (202) 223-3767 or via email at laila@unrwausa.org.