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About
Abigail S. Wexner (née Koppel, born 1961) is an American philanthropist, former prosecutor, and prominent figure in Jewish and public service leadership initiatives. Born in New York to the founder of El Al Israel Airlines' U.S. operations, she earned her Juris Doctor from the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. After earning her Juris Doctor from the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, she served as an assistant district attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney's office in New York during the 1980s and early 1990s, specializing in prosecutions related to white-collar crime and public corruption. In 1993, she married billionaire retail magnate Les Wexner, founder of L Brands, becoming his wife and partner in philanthropy. The couple settled in New Albany, Ohio, where they raised four children. Transitioning from law to philanthropy, Wexner became deeply involved in the family foundation, co-founding and co-chairing the Wexner Foundation (established in 1983), which focuses on fostering ethical leadership among Jewish professionals and public servants. Under her leadership, the foundation has expanded its programs, including the Wexner Israel Fellowship for mid-career Israeli professionals and the Wexner Ohio Public Service Fellowship, which trains emerging leaders in government and nonprofit sectors. Wexner holds board positions with influential organizations, serving on the board of directors and board of trustees for entities such as the Columbus Partnership, the Harvard Kennedy School's Wexner Israel Program, Ohio State University (where she serves on the board of trustees), and Nationwide Children's Hospital. Her philanthropic efforts extend to education and healthcare, with significant contributions to Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital. She co-founded the New Albany International School and supports initiatives promoting women's leadership and Jewish cultural preservation. Wexner's work emphasizes building networks of influence through education and mentorship, aligning with her husband's business empire while maintaining a relatively private profile. She has been recognized for her contributions to public service, receiving awards from Jewish organizations and civic groups.