Kettering Foundation


The Kettering Foundation is a US-based non-partisan research foundation founded in 1927 by Charles F. Kettering that works to inspire and connect individuals and organizations to advance thriving and inclusive democracies around the globe. The foundation believes that "all people belong and have the right to engage in and shape a democracy that serves them."
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History

The foundation was established in 1927 in Dayton, Ohio, with the mission of conducting scientific research for the betterment of humanity. Founded by Charles Franklin Kettering, a prolific inventor and former General Motors executive, the foundation initially focused on areas aligned with his interests, including science education, energy conservation, and medical research. Dayton, a hub of innovation, was a fitting home for the foundation, given its connection to pioneering advancements such as the Wright brothers’ early aviation work.
After Kettering's passing in 1958, the foundation expanded its focus to address societal needs, shifting its research toward primary and secondary education. By 1968, it moved away from traditional grantmaking to concentrate on its own research, with prominent figures such as George Gallup and Norman Cousins influencing its direction. This period saw the foundation explore topics such as citizen participation, international relations, and the role of journalism in public discourse.
In the 1980s, under the leadership of F. David Mathews, the foundation deepened its commitment to democratic engagement by experimenting with public deliberation, bringing citizens together to discuss pressing societal issues. It also collaborated with educators and community leaders to explore the role of active citizenship in democracy. As it entered the 21st century, the foundation refined its research around the question of how to make democracy function effectively.Today, under the leadership of Sharon L. Davies, it continues to champion inclusive democracy by fostering citizen engagement, ensuring government accountability, and resisting authoritarianism.
The institution is a member of the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education.

Leadership

The foundation's current president and CEO since April 2022 is Sharon L. Davies. She succeeded F. David Mathews who presided over the foundation from 1981 to 2022. Past notable board members have included Lisle Carter, Jr., Katherine W. Fanning, Mary Futrell, Daniel Kemmis, and Daniel Yankelovich.
Current board members:

Focus Areas

The foundation has five primary research focus areas:
  1. Defending Inclusive Democracy
  2. Information for a Democratic Society
  3. Democracy and Community
  4. Democracy and the Arts
  5. Democracy around the Globe

Fellowships

The foundation awards several fellowships to support its mission. Kettering Foundation fellows are distinguished global leaders and experts dedicated to addressing the most pressing challenges facing democracy.

The Katherine W. Fanning Fellowship in Journalism and Democracy

Named in honor Katherine “Kay” W. Fanning, a trailblazing newspaper editor and publisher who played a significant role on the Kettering Foundation’s board of directors for 12 years, including serving as chair from 1994 to 1996.
In August 2023, the foundation awarded its Katherine W. Fanning Fellowship in Journalism and Democracy to Judy Woodruff, veteran correspondent and former anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour.

The Charles F. Kettering Global Fellowship

The Charles F. Kettering Global Fellowship brings together international leaders from fields like academia, civil society, and journalism to support the foundation’s work on democracy.
List of 2025 Charles F. Kettering Global Fellows:

The David Mathews Democracy Fellowship Award

Named in honor of David Mathews, who served as the foundation's president and CEO from 1981 to 2022.
In August 2023, the foundation awarded its first David Mathews Democracy Fellowship to Kathleen Sebelius, former governor of Kansas and a cabinet member in the Obama administration.

The Ruth Yellowhawk Fellowship

Named in honor of Ruth Yellowhawk, who was a radio journalist and storyteller dedicated to community-centered reporting. She worked with the foundation from 1997 to 2010. In January 2025, the foundation awarded its Ruth Yellowhawk Fellowship to American Poet Laureate Joy Harjo.

Senior Fellows

Kettering Foundation senior fellows collaborate with the foundation to further its mission of promoting inclusive democracy. List of 2026 Kettering Foundation Senior Fellows: