DALLAS – Mar. 3, 2026 – The Dallas Foundation, founded in 1929 as the first community foundation in Texas, is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Leal and Robert Landin to its Board of Governors. Both leaders bring decades of experience in philanthropy, public service, and strategic investment, further strengthening the Foundation’s mission to serve as a catalyst for positive change in Greater Dallas.
Ben Leal serves as President of The Addy Foundation, where he leads funding efforts supporting agencies across the Dallas Fort Worth region in civics, culture, education, health and social services. Since joining The Addy Foundation in 2020, he has worked to advance innovative and proven solutions that serve those most in need. His career began in public service with the State of Texas in the Governor’s Office and as Legislative Director for the Texas House of Representatives before transitioning to the nonprofit sector.
Leal is a graduate of Texas Lutheran University and holds a Strategic Perspective in Nonprofit Management certificate from Harvard Business School, as well as a Nonprofit Certification in Management from Southern Methodist University. He currently serves as Board Chair of United to Learn and as Secretary of the DFW International Airport Board of Directors, in addition to serving on the AT&T Performing Arts Center Board. He is a Leadership Dallas alum and a member of The Dallas Assembly.
Robert Landin serves as Co-Managing Partner of The Milestone Group and Co-Chairman of the firm’s Investment Committee, where he oversees strategic direction, capital markets initiatives and global fundraising efforts. With more than 35 years of experience in real estate private equity, he previously served as CEO of Milestone REIT, leading the company through its successful multi-billion-dollar sale in 2017. Prior to Milestone, he held senior leadership roles at Olympus Real Estate Partners and Colony Capital.
Landin holds a B.A. in Managerial Economics from Union College and completed advanced studies at The London School of Economics. He is an active member of The Real Estate Council and is committed to both industry and community leadership. His experience in large-scale investment strategy and governance brings valuable insight to The Dallas Foundation’s long-term vision and stewardship.
“We are honored to welcome Ben and Robert to The Dallas Foundation’s Board of Governors,” said Julie Diaz, President & Chief Executive Officer of The Dallas Foundation. “Ben brings a thorough understanding of philanthropic strategy, public policy, and community collaboration, while Robert offers extraordinary expertise in investment leadership and long-term value creation. Together, their experience and perspective will help strengthen our governance, advance our strategic priorities and ensure The Dallas Foundation continues to grow its impact across Greater Dallas for generations to come.”