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.
Robert N. Kreidler, born in 1929, describes his work in United States foundations, particularly at the Sloan and Dana foundations. He describes the formation and management of foundations, their boards and employees, including women and minorities. Further, he describes the grant making process, successes and failures, and public opinion of foundations.
Alan Pifer, who served for seventeen years as the president of the Carnegie Corporation, discusses his family, education, service in World War II, and the development of his values and beliefs in this interview. He speaks of the personal requirements of a career in philanthropy in terms of personality, character, and education. Pifer comments on his career history, foundations, the interaction of philanthropic organizations and government, the various philanthropic causes with which he has worked, and his efforts for education in Africa. In addition, he discusses the impact of the Civil Rights Movement on the diversity of the boards of philanthropic organizations.