Darren Walker to Step Down as Ford Foundation President in 2025 After 11-Year Tenure

At the conclusion of 2025, Darren Walker will step down as president of the Ford Foundation, wrapping up an 11-year leadership period that began in 2014. Under his guidance, the foundation allocated $7 billion in grants, with a renewed emphasis on addressing inequality and promoting social justice. In 2017, the foundation initiated the $6 million Diversifying Art Museum Leadership Initiative. Additionally, a collaboration with the Mellon Foundation in 2020 led to the creation of the Disability Futures initiative, which offers $50,000 annually to artists with disabilities. Walker also led a $1 billion social bond during the pandemic and established America's Cultural Treasures, a $300 million fund for cultural organizations serving diverse communities. He expressed pride in his contributions and faith in the foundation's mission for equity.