History of the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation

The Diana Davis Spencer Foundation continues a multi-generational history of family philanthropy. It evolved from the Shelby Cullom Davis Foundation, established in 1962, and the Kathryn W. Davis Foundation, established in 2004.

Both Shelby and Kathryn earned their doctorates in International Relations from the University of Geneva.

Shelby, an author and successful investment banker, was the longest serving American ambassador to Switzerland. His wife, Kathryn Wasserman Davis, was an author, community leader, and renowned lecturer in Russian affairs. She took up art at age 95 and exhibited at juried shows.

Today, their daughter, Diana Davis Spencer, serves as executive chairman of the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation. A journalist and activist, Diana co-leads the foundation and its grant making efforts together with her daughter, Abby Spencer Moffat.

Abby serves as the foundation’s president and chief executive officer. A former business leader and entrepreneur, she serves on several boards and oversees the foundation’s day-to-day operations.