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.
Elizabeth J. "Jing" Lyman, active in volunteerism, social welfare, and philanthropy for decades, discusses the profound influence of her upbringing, family, education, and background on the development of her values, career path, and philosophy of philanthropy. In this interview, she emphasizes women and philanthropy, grant seeking and grant making, especially with regard to diversity issues. In addition, Lyman speaks of the importance and effectiveness of grassroots organizing, and the making of activist grants.