Dedicated to Strengthening

   America's Future Through Education

About the Foundations

The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations based in Jacksonville, Florida are a national philanthropic organization established through the generosity of the late American Industrialist, Arthur Vining Davis.

Religion
The Foundations' principal commitment in the field of religion is to graduate theological education. We believe that theological education makes an important contribution to our nation's moral integrity and future. Grants are made to U.S. institutions that are fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. All denominations are eligible.
Private Higher Education

The Foundations’ philanthropy in private higher education concentrates on strong academic colleges and universities with four-year, residential programs where students and faculty focus primarily in the arts and sciences, rather than career or vocational studies.  These institutions exemplify academic quality and strong financial stability. Proposals from associations and consortia that serve the sector are also welcome.

Health Care
Medicine and healthcare were among Arthur Vining Davis’ philanthropic priorities.  Continuing his legacy, the Foundations have maintained a longstanding focus on fostering “caring attitudes” among health professionals whose work affects patient care and medical outcomes.   The Foundations also played a significant philanthropic role in the establishment of hospice care in the United States from the mid-1970’s through the mid-1990’s when trustees determined hospice had become a prevalent, accepted practice in end of life care across the country.

 

 

Secondary Education

Beginning in 1994 and consistent with our historical emphasis on education, The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations explored the possibility of targeted funding to address the challenges facing public schools in the United States.   Subsequently, a new philanthropic priority emerged to strengthen teachers and teaching in high schools.  

 

 

Public Television
The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations are known nationally and globally for our long history of support for public television.  Early philanthropy helped to establish nine PBS stations.  Since 1974, the trustees’ focus has been on national broadcasts for “evergreen” programs with lasting educational value.  Our most visible and longstanding philanthropic partnership has been since 1987 with award-winning documentary filmmaker Ken Burns.