The American Foundations Oral History Project consists of a series of interviews with prominent American philanthropists, each of whom relates their background, the development of their values, and their philosophies of philanthropy. The purpose and state of American philanthropy, including those family foundations and corporate foundations, form a central topic, as do the recent trend of increasing diversity and opinions on grant evaluation and philanthropic assessment. In addition, many interviewees comment on the role of government in philanthropy and the system of ethics at play in American philanthropy.
Sara Engelhardt discusses her childhood, family background, education, values, and career at the Carnegie Foundation in this interview. She speaks of her philosophy of philanthropy and the ethics involved in this field. In addition, she discusses the purpose of the Foundation Library Center, her vision for the future, the impact of the 1969 Tax Reform Act on philanthropy, philanthropic abuse, and the importance of diversity in philanthropy.
Barbara Finberg, formerly the executive vice president of the Carnegie Corporation, discusses her philosophy of philanthropy, her values, and occupational background in this interview. Finberg spoke of her career at the Carnegie Corporation, the philanthropic goals of this institution, and the changes it experienced over the years. She also discusses diversity and minorities with regard to philanthropy, and her own experiences as a woman in a formerly male-dominated field. In addition, Finberg speaks of the ethics of the field of philanthropy and the role of foundations in society.
John Gardner, a successful philanthropist who spent the majority of his career at the Carnegie Corporation, discusses his background, career development, philosophy of philanthropy, and tenure at the Carnegie Corporation. He speaks of the importance of preventive philanthropy and he emphasizes educational grants in this context. In addition, Gardner discusses grant evaluation, the Independent Sector, and the guiding principles he uses with regard to the application of foundation monies in the form of grants.
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