Definition
Susan Berresford is an American philanthropist and former chief executive of the Ford Foundation, recognized for her influence on contemporary nonprofit management and charitable giving in the United States.
Overview
Born in 1943, Berresford earned a Bachelor of Arts from Vassar College and a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. She began her career at the Ford Foundation in 1972, rising through the ranks to become its president and chief executive officer in 1996, a position she held until 2007. Under her leadership, the foundation broadened its grantmaking focus to include social justice, community development, and the empowerment of marginalized populations. After leaving the Ford Foundation, Berresford co‑founded and chaired the social venture capital firm Camber Collective, and she has served on the boards of numerous cultural, educational, and philanthropic organizations, including the New York Philharmonic, the Institute for Advanced Study, and the New Museum. Berresford is also a frequent speaker and author on topics related to strategic philanthropy, impact investing, and nonprofit governance.
Etymology/Origin
- Susan: Derived from the Hebrew name “Shoshana,” meaning “lily.” The name entered English usage through the Greek “Σουζάννα” and the Latin “Susanna.”
- Berresford: An English surname, likely a variant of “Beresford,” which originates from a place name meaning “the ford of the barley field” (from Old English bere “barley” + ford “river crossing”).
Characteristics
- Leadership in Philanthropy: Guided the Ford Foundation through a period of strategic shift toward equity‑oriented grantmaking, emphasizing capacity building for grassroots organizations.
- Advocacy for Social Impact Investing: Promoted the integration of market‑based approaches with charitable objectives, exemplified by her role in establishing the Camber Collective.
- Board and Advisory Service: Holds or has held governance positions across a spectrum of cultural, educational, and research institutions, reflecting a broad commitment to the public good.
- Thought Leadership: Authored essays and delivered keynote addresses on nonprofit management, diversity in philanthropy, and the role of private foundations in addressing systemic inequality.
Related Topics
- Ford Foundation
- Philanthropy in the United States
- Social impact investing
- Nonprofit governance
- Strategic grantmaking
- Cultural institutions and board service.