Darren Walker, the president of Ford Foundation has revealed that he will be stepping down in 2025.
In an interview, Darren, who currently serves as the 10th president of the foundation noted the need to have a change of guard.
As such, he disclosed that he had begun discussing his departure with the board two years ago.
“Philanthropy as a field needs new leaders and a constant refreshing because as a sector, we can be self-satisfied and lose the edge to our work,” he said.
In addition, Walker noted that, “Some people stay in foundation jobs too long because it’s intoxicating every day to be in a position where people are deferential,” he added.
Following the announcement, Ford Foundation board chair Francisco Cigarroa stated that a search committee has been formed to find Walker’s replacement.
Achievements at Ford Foundation
The 64-year-old, who has led one of the original American philanthropies since 2013, has been named one of Rolling Stone’s “25 People Shaping the Future” and Time’s 100 Most Influential People.
Furthermore, Cigarroa commended Walker for his composure during a challenging time for the NGO, describing his leadership as memorable.
“Walker has guided Ford through some of the most challenging moments of our time with grace, kindness, and empathy, and his tenure will be remembered as one of the most consequential periods in the institution’s nearly 90-year history,” said Cigarroa.
Prior to his role as president, Darren has served as a former corporate attorney and chief operating officer of the Harlem-based Abyssinian Development Corporation.
He oversaw major investments in advocating for gender equity and disability rights, interrogating the impact of new technologies, and leveraging the foundation’s own assets for impact.
Obama Remarks on Darren Walker Resignation
Following the news of Darren’s resignation, former President Barack Obama shared his remarks on the philanthropist.
Obama said that Walker has “devoted his career to social justice, human rights, and reducing inequality around the world, and he’s inspired countless organizations and individuals to do the same.”
Also read: Ford Foundation Responds to Ruto’s Demand Letter
Ford Foundation Responds to Ruto’s Accusations
Darren stepping down comes after President William Ruto accused the American charity organization of sponsoring the anti-government protests.
Ruto alleged that the Ford Foundation hired goons to incite violence during the protests, resulting in property damage and business looting.
“Those sponsoring them to cause violence and mayhem must be ashamed of themselves. We ask the Ford Foundation to explain to Kenyans its role in the recent protests. We will call out all those who are bent on rolling back our hard-won democracy,” the President said.
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