Photography by THE FORD FOUNDATION

DARREN WALKER

President of the Ford Foundation

The most powerful figure in American philanthropy oversaw $7 billion in grants during his tenure as president of the Ford Foundation—and showed the world that funding art really can create social change.

WHAT’S COMING UP FOR YOU IN 2025? This year marks my final one as president of the Ford Foundation, where I have been for more than a decade. While I look forward to what this new chapter will bring, it’s going to be a big change. I revere this institution and I am so proud of the work we’ve supported during my time here, but it’s good to know when it’s time to move on and make space for something new.

NAME AN INFLUENCE OF YOURS THAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE. I think James Baldwin is one of the most important writers and activists of our time. His work beautifully articulates the alienation that people living on the peripheries of society can experience, as I fundamentally believe that if we fail to address pernicious factors that drive inequality and broaden gaps to opportunity and pursuit of happiness, we will regret it for generations to come.

“"Inequality is the greatest threat to our democracy, and it’s something that I am deeply concerned about on every level."”

WHAT’S ONE BOOK, WORK OF ART, OR FILM THAT GOT YOU THROUGH AN IMPORTANT MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE? One album I always return to is George Michael’s second album, Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1. He was a complicated, troubled, and brilliant artist, and a philanthropist who left an enduring legacy. well as the need to challenge ignorance and examine how unchecked privilege and power can fuel injustice.

WHAT KEEPS YOU UP AT NIGHT? Inequality is the greatest threat to our democracy, and it’s something that I am deeply concerned about on every level.

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