About the Foundation
Built on business success, dedicated to giving back
Built on Business Success, Dedicated to Giving Back
The Barry F. Cohen Private Foundation grew from a simple belief: success in business creates opportunities to help others. After decades building and leading companies, Barry F. Cohen established this foundation to address real needs in our communities.
The Foundation is led by Alex Clug as Trustee, who brings over 25 years of experience in building and leading companies across technology, healthcare, and international markets. A West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, Alex served as a Captain in the Corps of Engineers before earning his MBA from UCLA Anderson. His leadership spans from founding medical robotics companies to developing mining operations and serving as CEO of multiple technology firms. This combination of military service, business acumen, and commitment to giving back guides the Foundation's strategic approach to creating meaningful impact.
Barry F. Cohen: Business Leader and Philanthropist
Barry F. Cohen brings over 50 years of business experience to his philanthropic work. His career spans multiple industries and leadership roles.
In 2015, Mr. Cohen co-founded Avra Medical Robotics Inc. with Alex Clug, serving as CEO. When Avra became SS Innovations International (Nasdaq: SSII), he continued as Board Director and COO of the Americas.
Alex Clug: Trustee and Business Leader
Alex Clug brings over 25 years of entrepreneurial and leadership experience to his role as Trustee. Currently CEO of The Dolphin Group LLC and Senior Advisor at SS Innovations International (Nasdaq: SSII), he co-founded Avra Medical Robotics Inc. with Barry F. Cohen, successfully leading it to a public listing.
A West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, Alex served as a Captain in the Corps of Engineers before earning his MBA from UCLA Anderson. His career spans multiple industries and continents, having served as CEO of telecommunications, mining, and technology companies across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. He has successfully built companies from inception through IPO, including increasing Secure Fortress's valuation twentyfold within six months of its UK public offering.
As Trustee of the Barry F. Cohen Private Foundation, Alex applies his strategic expertise and commitment to service in directing the Foundation's philanthropic initiatives.
Barry F Cohen's Business Leadership History
Co-founder & CEO
Avra Medical Robotics Inc. (2015)
Board Director & COO
SS Innovations International (Nasdaq: SSII)
President
Synalloy Corp. (1984-1985)
Chairman
Wolverine Technologies, Inc. (NYSE, 1979-1983)
Additional Leadership Roles
- Founded AVRA Surgical, Inc., a medical technology company (2006-2008)
- President of Synalloy Corp. (1984-1985), after serving as Director (1979-1983)
- Chairman of the Executive Board, Wolverine Technologies, Inc. (NYSE listed, 1979-1983)
- President of Barry F. Cohen & Co., an NASD member firm (1983-1999)
Our Purpose
Why We Do This Work
Some problems can't wait for perfect solutions. Children need help with education today. Veterans need support now. The homeless need shelter tonight. Animals need rescue and care immediately.
The Foundation exists to help organizations that tackle these urgent needs. We keep our approach flexible because community needs change, and new challenges emerge. What matters is making a real difference for those who need help most.
Now, through the Foundation, Mr. Cohen applies the same dedication and strategic thinking that built successful companies to addressing social needs. His approach remains hands-on and results-focused, just as it was in business.