Reflecting on My First 100 Days

President Heather Gerken discusses Ford’s work to advance the ideals and principles of democracy.

Profile portrait of a smiling woman, Heather Gerken, with blonde hair, wearing a bright coral blazer, sitting on a stage during a speaking engagement. The background is dark with a subtle blue curtain.

Featured Stories

A collage celebrating voting rights and civic engagement in Mississippi. It features two people hugging, a "VOTE" banner, citizens at a polling station, and "VOTE TODAY" signs in front of a historic government building, symbolizing grassroots activism and democratic participation.
Stories

Mississippi Engaged: Strengthening Democracy and Building Civic Engagement in Communities

Mississippi Engaged, a nonpartisan coalition, combats restrictive voting laws through year-round organizing, community education, and advocacy for reforms like early voting. Their strategy emphasizes localized engagement to dismantle barriers and ensure every voice is heard.

A promotional banner with a pink background and a yellow title box reading "Learning Globally, Leading Locally: Conversations With Ford Global Fellows." It features two women's headshots: Nettrice Gaskins (left) and Mercy Mutemi (right).
Stories

When Technology Meets Justice: Nettrice Gaskins and Mercy Mutemi on Building Equitable Digital Futures

A conversation with Ford Global Fellows Nettrice Gaskins and Mercy Mutemi, whose work explores systemic harms and innovative solutions in emerging technology.

An image of Traci Morris and Matthew Rantanen, separated by a Wi-Fi symbol filled with flowers, against a vibrant, pink and red background.
Stories

Tribal Digital Sovereignty: How Native Communities Are Powering Their Own Tech Future

The severe broadband gap on Tribal lands is an example of the lack of self-determination and vital services Tribal communities experience. Tribal Digital Sovereignty—holistic governance over digital assets and infrastructure—is essential for Native Nations to build a just tech future.

Portrait of Nicholas Turner
News

Ford Foundation Appoints Nicholas Turner Executive Vice President

The Ford Foundation today announced the appointment of Nicholas Turner as executive vice president for programs. Turner will join Ford’s executive leadership team in May to steward the strategic impact of Ford’s programmatic work worldwide.

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Getty Images | Builders and Backers

Made in the Heartland: 90 Years of Partnership and Progress

Ford leaders reflect on the foundation’s legacy of stewardship, civic architecture, and democratic wealth-building.

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Big Ideas

A stylized illustration of a stack of hands of various skin tones holding up a glowing lightbulb. The lightbulb's filament is a map of the world, and it emits bright yellow light rays against a yellow background.

People-Powered Solutions: Connecting Local Communities and Global Challenges

Ford Foundation is building a people-centered global order. We support local leaders creating a more just and equitable world. Their solutions, powered by Global South voices, break down silos to create lasting global change.

Infographic featuring a portrait of Janai Nelson, President and Director-Counsel, The Legal Defense Fund. Large text states the legal defense fund was founded 86 years ago.

The Legal Defense Fund

A historic legal organization works to protect voting rights and safeguard America’s multiracial democracy.

The Backbone of America: Understanding the Working Class

Understanding America’s working class—defined as individuals without a four-year college degree—is central to our democracy’s strength and our society’s well-being.

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Getty