Darren Walker to Step Down as Ford Foundation President

Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation since 2013, has announced his intention to step down by the end of 2025, marking the end of a significant 12-year tenure focused on inequality and social justice. Under his leadership, the foundation has made substantial investments in gender equity, disability rights, and public interest technology, distributing over $7 billion in grants. Francisco Cigarroa, chair of the Ford Foundation board, praised Walker for guiding the organization through challenging times with grace and empathy, while former President Barack Obama commended his commitment to social justice and human rights. Walker's approach emphasizes the need to address not just wealth disparities but also broader societal injustices. His legacy includes initiatives like the Black Feminist Fund and support for local organizations in South Africa and Indonesia. A search committee has been established to find his successor, as Walker reflects on his impactful role in philanthropy.