Barbara Walters Helped Engineer Geffen’s Lincoln Center Gift
The New York Times examines the backstory of David Geffen’s $100-million naming gift to Lincoln Center and the controversy in philanthropic circles over the terms of the gift, particularly the venue’s pledge to keep the Hollywood mogul’s name on its concert hall in perpetuity.
Nobody Needs a ‘Shark Tank’ in Philanthropy
The Council on Foundations shouldn’t emulate reality television at its annual meeting, yet it has chosen to ask charities to act like circus barkers.
By Gail Nayowith, Jon Pratt and Maria Mottola
Letter to the Editor: New Name for Avery Fisher Hall Will Honor Generosity and Inspire Others
The leaders of the Lincoln Center say Pablo Eisenberg’s column about renaming the concert hall misses the point that gifts of that kind are critical to the future of many nonprofits.
Gates: Global System Required to Tackle Next Big Epidemic
The Ebola crisis in West Africa points up the need for an interconnected, international system for detecting potential epidemics and minimizing their spread, Bill Gates writes in a New York Times opinion column.
Impact Investing Can Help Foundations Avoid Obsolescence
The disconnect between endowment investing and achieving a social mission can’t continue.
By William Burckart
Contributor
How White Foundation Leaders Can Promote Racial Justice
After challenges in Ferguson, Mo., and elsewhere, it’s time for everyone to work to end bias.
By AARON DORFMAN
Contributor
Stop Appealing to Billionaire Egos With Naming Rights
Fundraisers should not fall for the pushy self-glorification of America’s wealthy.
By PABLO EISENBERG
Contributor
3 Steps to Collaboration That Tackle Society’s Toughest Challenges
A $30 million effort to help kids with learning problems like dyslexia and attention-deficit disorder required lots of listening and testing.
By Dana O’Donovan
Contributor
Nonprofits Don’t Need More Regulation
Federal and state laws already do enough to police bad behavior; so do boards.
Opinion: Change Tax Law to Recognize Naming-Rights Market
Entertainment mogul David Geffen’s $100 million naming gift to Lincoln Center points up the need for tax law to reflect a growing culture of competitive philanthropy, a law professor writes in a New York Times column. Linda Sugin of Fordham University notes that tax deductions are reduced if the donor receives a tangible asset, like a seat at a concert or gala but not for the far more valuable benefit of a name on a building.