Family Philanthropy Teleconference: The Role of Faith and Cultural Traditions in Family Philanthropy

December 10, 2009
Noon - 1:30 pm ET

Who Should Attend: Boards and staffs of family foundations and others who work with families on their philanthropy. This FPN-NCFP teleconference is open to the staffs and boards of FPN member organizations.
Cost: No charge.
To Register: Register Online
Presenters: Ambassador James Joseph, Professor, Duke University.

For most families, December is a time for observing traditions, many of which are grounded in our various faiths and cultures. Philanthropy is both a tenet and an expression of those traditions. In this FPN-NCFP teleconference, Ambassador James Joseph will help listeners understand how benevolent traditions have transformed our national life.

About the Presenter

James Joseph is Professor of the Practice of Public Policy Studies and Executive Director of the United States - Southern Africa Center for Leadership and Public Values at Duke University. Nominated by President Clinton and confirmed by the United States Senate in December 1995, he was the first and only American Ambassador to present his credentials to President Nelson Mandela. In 1999, President Thabo Mbeki awarded him the Order of Good Hope, the highest honor the Republic of South Africa bestows on a citizen of another country.

Ambassador Joseph has had a distinguished career in government, business, education and philanthropy. From 1982-1995, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of the Council on Foundations. Joseph also served as Under Secretary of the Interior from 1977-1981 and as Vice President of Cummins Engine Company and President of the Cummins Engine Foundation from 1971-1976.

An ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, Joseph has taught at Yale Divinity School and the Claremont Colleges, where he was also University Chaplain. He has served in a variety of capacities for four U.S. Presidents: Presidents Reagan, Bush, Carter and Clinton.