Guide to the John W. Gardner Legacy Oral History Project SC1355
Emma Frothingham
Stanford Historical Society Oral History Program
Department of Special Collections and University Archives
March 2021
Green Library
557 Escondido Mall
Stanford 94305-6064
specialcollections@stanford.edu
Collection contains two series of oral history interviews
Language of Material:
English
Contributing Institution:
Department of Special Collections and University Archives
Title: John W. Gardner Legacy Oral History Project
Identifier/Call Number: SC1355
Physical Description:
19148.8 megabyte(s)
Date (inclusive): 2017-2021
Language of Material: English
Physical Location: Special Collections
and University Archives materials are stored offsite and must be paged 36-48 hours in
advance. For more information on paging collections, see the department's website:
http://library.stanford.edu/spc .
Physical Location: Special Collections
and University Archives materials are stored offsite and must be paged at least 36 hours in
advance.
Some materials are restricted to users with a Stanford University ID.
John W. Gardner (1912-2002) earned his BA and MA degrees in psychology from Stanford and a
PhD in psychology from University of California, Berkeley. He remained connected to his alma
mater throughout his illustrious career, serving on Stanford's Board of Trustees from 1968
to 1982. As the president of the Carnegie Corporation of New York from 1955 to 1967, he
became known as "one of the most powerful behind-the-scenes figures in education." Gardner
served as Lyndon B. Johnson's Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) from 1965 to
1968. He founded two influential public advocacy groups, Common Cause (1970) and Independent
Sector (1980). Gardner spent the last thirteen years of his life at Stanford. He was a
founding member of the national advisory board of the Public Service Center (later the Haas
Center for Public Service) and the first Miriam and Peter Haas Centennial Professor in
Public Service. The John Gardner Public Service Fellowship and the John W. Gardner Center
for Youth and Their Communities are just two examples of Gardner's lasting legacy at
Stanford and beyond.
[identification of item], John W. Gardner Legacy Oral History Project (SC1355). Department
of Special Collections and University Archives, Stanford University Libraries, Stanford,
Calif.
Series 1 of the collection contains oral history interviews with friends, family, and
colleagues of John W. Gardner. Participants reflected on the imapact Gardner's work had on
their own lives and American soceity. Series 2 of the collection contains interviews with
alumni of the John Gardner Public Service Fellowship. It also includes a group interview
with founders of the John Gardner Fellowship Association.
While Special Collections is the owner of the physical and digital items, permission to
examine collection materials is not an authorization to publish. These materials are made
available for use in research, teaching, and private study. Any transmission or reproduction
beyond that allowed by fair use requires permission from the owners of rights, heir(s) or
assigns. See: http://library.stanford.edu/spc/using-collections/permission-publish
Subjects and Indexing Terms
Oral history
Leadership
Civil soceity
Mentoring
Gardner, John W. (John William)
John Gardner Fellowship Association
Baumgartner, Roberta M. "Bobbi" 2018-04-04
Bobbi Baumgartner - Recordings
Bobbi Baumgartner - Transcript
Creator: Baumgartner, Roberta M. "Bobbi"
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Roberta M.
"Bobbi" Baumgartner, who is retired from her work as an executive assistant at
Stanford University, served as John W. Gardner's personal assistant from 1990 to 1997
at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the School of Education. She discusses
her connection to Stanford growing up and the development of her close working
relationship with Gardner. She recounts different aspects of working for him and her
memories of him as an employer, mentor, teacher, author, public figure, and family
man.
Bortz, Walter M. 2017-04-26
Wally Bortz - Recordings
Wally Bortz - Transcript
Creator: Bortz, Walter M. "Wally"
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Dr. Walter
Bortz, an emeritus adjunct clinical professor at the Stanford University School of
Medicine and a leading expert on aging, reflects on his early life, his move to
California, his career in the field of geriatrics, and his interactions with John W.
Gardner after Gardner returned to Stanford.
Butler, Lewis H. 2018-05-09
Lewis Butler - Recordings
Lewis Butler - Transcript
Creator: Butler, Lewis.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Lewis H.
"Lew" Butler discusses growing up in San Francisco, his long and productive career in
public service, and his personal and professional relationship with John W. Gardner.
Butler talks about growing up in San Francisco, and discusses how World War II
affected his life. He went to MIT, enlisted after a year, and then went to Oregon
State and Princeton. He recounts stories from those years and reflects on his decision
to attend Stanford Law School, where he met his wife, Sheana Wohlford Butler. Butler
discusses leaving his job as a corporate lawyer in San Francisco to work for the Peace
Corps in Malaysia and his work after returning from Malaysia, when he consulted for
the Ford Foundation and started an environmental law firm with Paul N. "Pete"
McCloskey. He also discusses working with William Evers to start the Planning and
Conservation League. As a one-time member of the Bohemian Club, Butler met Gardner
there for the first time, a meeting which he recounts. He also recalls reading
Gardner's early books. After working on the transition team when Robert Finch became
the secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, he stayed on as the assistant
secretary for planning and evaluation. He remembers seeking Gardner's advice on how to
do the best work at HEW during this time. Butler talks about the protests over the
Kent State killings and the ensuing appointment of Elliot Richardson as secretary,
under whom he worked on national health insurance. He discusses teaching law at
Berkeley for a year after leaving HEW, and then working with Philip R. Lee on founding
the Institute for Health Policy Studies at UCSF in 1972, which led him to move from
Washington, DC. Butler recounts returning to California and joining the board of the
Public Service Center at Stanford University, where he worked with Gardner and Peter
E. Haas, among others. He also discusses his work on preserving the Presidio, the
Butler Koshland Fellowship program, and as a board member for California Tomorrow. He
concludes by reflecting on Gardner's life, noting his powerful leadership and unique
mentorship style, emphasizing his modesty above all else.
Cacciotti, Jerry 2019-01-03
Jerry Cacciotti - Recordings
Jerry Cacciotti - Transcript
Creator: Cacciotti, Jerry
Creator: Wyman, Lyn
Abstract: Jerry
Cacciotti (1985 BA International Relations; 1990 MBA) shares memories of his early
life and career and reflects on the impact of his year as a member of the first class
of John Gardner Fellows, the advice he received from John Gardner, and the mission of
the John Gardner Fellowship Association. Cacciotti begins by describing his childhood
in Salinas, California, his parents' careers in public service, and his early
involvement in politics. He shares memories of his study abroad experiences while at
Stanford, his involvement with LGBTQ+ student groups on campus, and how he came to
apply for the John Gardner Public Service Fellowship in 1985. During his fellowship
year, Cacciotti worked on the staff of Lee Hamilton (D-IN) in the US House of
Representatives. He shares memories of working with Hamilton both as a fellow and as
his personal press secretary. He describes bonding with other John Gardner Fellows and
communicates some of the advice that Gardner gave him over the years as well as
Gardner's approach to mentoring. He concludes the interview by describing the
formation and evolution of the John Gardner Fellowship Association and reflecting on
Gardner's legacy.
Clever, Linda Hawes 2017-07-21-2017-08-29
Linda Hawes Clever - Recordings
Linda Hawes Clever - Transcript
Creator: Clever, Linda Hawes
Creator: Feder, Abby
Abstract: Linda Hawes
Clever, MD, MACP, founding president of RENEW and a clinical professor at University
of California-San Francisco, discusses her long friendship with John W. Gardner and
his family, spanning over thirty years from coast to coast. Dr. Clever speaks of
Gardner's role in the founding of her not-for-profit organization, RENEW; her role on
the founding board of Independent Sector; her admiration for Gardner's work; and her
personal friendship with him. She also discusses her friendship with his wife, Aida,
after his death, and her family's continued friendship with his daughters and
grandchildren.
Cruz, Nadinne 2017-06-10-2017-06-11
Nadinne Cruz - Recordings
Nadinne Cruz - Transcript
Creator: Cruz, Nadinne I.,
1948-
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Nadinne Cruz,
former executive director at the Higher Education Consortium for Urban Affairs and
former director of the Haas Center for Public Service at Stanford, discusses her early
life in the Philippines; her career in public service, education, and activism; and
her friendship with John W. Gardner. Cruz recounts stories from her early interactions
with Gardner during meetings of the National Advisory Board of the Haas Center, noting
his patience, ability to navigate difficult situations, and humility. She talks about
the friendship that they developed despite coming from very different backgrounds and
the conversations that they had about the idea of common cause, how to understand the
public good, and the importance of community-building. She expresses her belief that
studying the example of leadership that Gardner set is more important than simply
looking at his writings or ideas.
DeBusk, Ann 2017-07-13
Ann DeBusk - Recordings
Ann DeBusk - Transcript
Creator: DeBusk, Ann
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Ann DeBusk, a
longtime friend and mentee of John W. Gardner, shares memories of him and the advice
he gave her. DeBusk begins by speaking about her youth and college education in the
Pacific Northwest before arriving at Stanford to complete her graduate work at the
Graduate School of Education. She describes meeting Gardner through her friendship
with Gardner's daughter, Francesca (Checka). DeBusk goes on to talk about her work
with Leadership Palo Alto and the Silicon Valley chapter of the American Leadership
Forum, as well as the guidance Gardner provided as she became involved with the two
organizations. She also describes working on the advisory board of the John W. Gardner
Center for Youth and Their Communities. She concludes the interview by sharing stories
of her friendship with Gardner and his wife, Aida.
DeBusk, Robert F. 2017-07-03-2017-09-14
Robert DeBusk - Recordings
Robert DeBusk - Transcript
Creator: DeBusk, Robert F., MD
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Creator: Marine-Street, Natalie Jean
Abstract: In this
interview, Robert F. DeBusk, MD, shares memories of his friend John W. Gardner and
reflects on Gardner's legacy. DeBusk, a professor emeritus of cardiology at Stanford,
speaks briefly about his undergraduate years at Stanford and describes the
circumstances that led him to a career in cardiology. He talks about the friendship he
and his wife, Ann, developed with John and Aida Gardner upon the Gardners' return to
California from Washington, DC. He offers insights into Gardner's character and
personality, describes his involvement with the Silicon Valley chapter of the American
Leadership Forum, and recalls the waning days of Gardner's life.
Ehrlich, Thomas 2017-05-03
Thomas Ehrlich - Recordings
Thomas Ehrlich - Transcript
Creator: Ehrlich, Thomas
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Thomas
Ehrlich discusses his career and his friendship with John W. Gardner. Ehrlich recounts
stories from his early years at Stanford as a professor of law, including troubles
with university president Kenneth Pitzer. He discusses his early conversations with
Gardner regarding the dearth of law students going into public service, an issue
Ehrlich attempted to remedy when he was dean of the law school. He also talks about
Gardner's legacy in the context of his written works, including Excellence, as well as
the establishment of the John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities. On a
personal level, Ehrlich expresses his appreciation for Gardner's mentorship style,
which focused on offering encouragement instead of dictating advice.
Fox, Sean 2017-09-13
Sean Fox - Recordings
Sean Fox - Transcript
Creator: Fox,
Sean
Creator: Feder, Abby
Abstract: Sean Fox,
co-president of Freedom Financial and a former John Gardner Public Service Fellow,
discusses growing up in rural Washington, studying as an undergraduate at Stanford
University, being mentored by John W. Gardner, and his career in law, business, and
policy. While in high school, Fox received the Young American Medal for Service for
starting a food bank in his hometown, Toledo, and he discusses how this fueled his
passion for public service. He talks about his time at Stanford, where he majored in
economics and political science. He discusses his involvement in public service and
policy issues at Stanford, including tutoring students in the Ravenswood school
district, working in Senator Timothy Wirth's office through the Stanford in Washington
program, and volunteering through the Haas Center for Public Service. He recounts his
memories from a class on leadership taught by Gardner. He also reflects on Gardner's
centennial commencement address at Stanford in 1991. Fox talks about working at the
World Resources Institute on issues related to climate change as a John Gardner Public
Service Fellow. He discusses his experiences being mentored by Gardner, and recalls
being struck by Gardner's encouraging and humble nature. He also recounts stories from
his involvement in the documentary, John Gardner: Uncommon American. Fox discusses
working on antitrust at the Department of Justice, and then returning to work with
Jutvision in Palo Alto before starting Freedom Financial. He then reflects on his role
in helping to found the John Gardner Fellowship Association and the importance of the
fellowship network.
Freedman, Marc 2019-07-12
Marc Freedman - Recordings
Marc Freedman - Transcript
Creator: Freedman, Marc
Creator: Schmidt-Posner, Jackie
Abstract: Marc Freedman
is the president, CEO, and founder of Encore.org, an organization that seeks to foster
intergenerational collaboration and solutions to social problems. He recalls the
origins of the Experience Corps, highlighting John W. Gardner's early thinking about
mobilizing the skills of senior citizens for social good and the role Gardner played
in launching the program. Throughout the interview, he shares memories and impressions
of Gardner while reflecting on his legacy and its continuing relevance.
Gaither, James C. 2019-01-29
James Gaither - Recordings
James Gaither - Transcript
Creator: Gaither, James C.
Creator: Marine-Street, Natalie Jean
Abstract: James C.
Gaither shares memories of his interactions with John W. Gardner during the Lyndon B.
Johnson administration when Gardner was the Secretary of Health, Education, and
Welfare and Gaither worked in Joe Califano's office on the legislative agenda. He also
offers thoughts on the work of Wilbur Cohen, Gardner's deputy. Gaither recalls his
father's collaboration with Gardner during the McCarthy hearings when the two men
worked to defend foundations accused of harboring communists and speaks about the time
that he and Gardner overlapped on Stanford's Board of Trustees.
Geballe, Frances "Sissy" 2017-04-05
Frances Geballe - Transcript
Creator: Geballe, Frances "Sissy"
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Frances
"Sissy" Geballe, a longtime supporter of the Haas Center for Public Service, shares
memories of John W. Gardner and public service at Stanford. Geballe recalls Stanford
President Don Kennedy's dedication to public service and the founding of the Haas
Center for Public Service, named after her cousin, Walter Haas, Jr. She also speaks
about her personal connection to the University of California, Berkeley, and how
important it was to her that Berkeley students were included in the John Gardner
Fellowship Program. She recalls Gardner's dedication to service and philanthropy,
which inspired members of her family.
Audio recordings are not available
Gerstein, Amy 2018-12-10
Amy Gerstein - Recordings
Amy Gerstein - Transcript
Creator: Gerstein, Amy
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Amy Gerstein,
executive director of the John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities at
Stanford's Graduate School of Education, speaks about the role the center plays in the
Bay Area community and how it tries to carry on Gardner's legacy. Gerstein also shares
information about her own background: growing up in a community where civic engagement
was the norm, her path into education via Ted Sizer and the Essential Schools
movement, and the circumstances that led her to attend graduate school in education at
Stanford and become involved with the Gardner Center.
Gregg, Robert C. 2018-07-25
Robert C. Gregg - Recordings
Robert C. Gregg - Transcript
Creator: Gregg, Robert C.
Creator: Prabhu, Anirudh
Abstract: Robert C.
"Bob" Gregg, former dean for religious life at Stanford University, discusses his
friendship with John W. Gardner and their participation in a lunch discussion group
known as the "lunch bunch." Members of the group also included Melvin Lane, Arjay
Miller, Roger Heyns, Walter Hewlett, and Herant Katchadourian. Gregg recalls meeting
Gardner through their involvement in the Haas Center for Public Service. Their
friendship deepened when Gregg joined the lunch bunch in 1999. He recounts
conversations about a wide range of topics, including the thought processes of famous
leaders, conflicts within the boards of major corporations, and social controversies.
He talks about a specific conversation he had with Gardner about President Lyndon B.
Johnson's decision to support the Civil Rights Act. Gregg describes Gardner as
open-minded and humble, yet forthright about the issues that were important to him. He
also discusses Gardner's practical focus and his desire to activate the spirit of
action in all people.
Haas, Mimi 2018-04-30
Mimi Haas - Recordings
Mimi Haas - Transcript
Creator: Haas,
Miriam Lurie "Mimi"
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Mimi Haas
describes her parents' experience as refugees from Yugoslavia and shares memories of
her youth in the Washington, DC, area. She recalls hearing about John W. Gardner and
Common Cause during her adolescence and how she later became friends with Gardner and
his wife, Aida, after marrying the late Peter E. Haas and joining the Bay Area social
scene. Peter and Mimi Haas generously supported the founding of the Gardner Fellowship
program at Stanford and UC Berkeley, and they later created the endowed chair that
brought Gardner back to Stanford in 1989. The couple also were instrumental in the
founding of the Haas Center for Public Service at Stanford. Haas concludes the
interview by expressing admiration for Gardner and his life's work in public
service.
Hanson, Kirk O. 2018-10-14
Kirk Hanson - Recordings
Kirk Hanson - Transcript
Creator: Hanson, Kirk O.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Kirk Hanson
shares memories of his time at Stanford, his career studying business ethics and
responsibility, and his relationship with John W. Gardner. Hanson describes his
family's roots in San Francisco and how his religious upbringing led to an interest in
ethics. He recalls his undergraduate years at Stanford in the 1960s and working for
Hewlett Packard during the summer, as well as returning to Stanford's Graduate School
of Business as a student and later lecturer and senior lecturer. Hanson became aware
of Gardner through his writings and reputation, and the two men developed a friendship
when they were office neighbors in the GSB's Littlefield Management Center. Hanson
discusses Gardner's legacy, his belief in the power of collective institutions, and
his place in Silicon Valley history.
Hastorf, Barbara 2017-09-01-2017-09-12
Barbara Hastorf - Recordings
Barbara Hastorf - Transcript
Creator: Hastorf, Barbara
Creator: Feder, Abby
Abstract: Barbara
Hastorf discusses growing up in New York and New Jersey, taking a class with John W.
Gardner while she was a student at Mount Holyoke College, and reconnecting with him
when she moved with her family to Palo Alto. At Mount Holyoke College, Hastorf majored
in economics and took an introductory psychology course with Gardner. She offers her
recollections on that class and remembers Gardner as an open-minded and pleasant
professor. Hastorf also discusses meeting with Gardner once she came to Stanford with
her husband, Albert Hastorf, who was also a psychologist.
Joss, Robert L. 2019-10-28
Bob Joss - Recordings
Bob Joss - Transcript
Creator: Joss, Robert Law
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Robert Joss,
former dean of Stanford's Graduate School of Business, shares memories of John W.
Gardner and reflects on Gardner's abilities as a writer, teacher, and leader. Joss
describes first meeting Gardner when Joss served as a White House Fellow in the late
1960s and recalls later renewing their relationship when Joss came to the GSB as dean
and Gardner was teaching at Stanford's Graduate School of Education. He remembers how
Gardner encouraged him to begin teaching a leadership course at the GSB and talks
about Gardner's continuing relevance and legacy today.
Kennedy, Robin 2017-06-10
Robin Kennedy - Recordings
Robin Kennedy - Transcript
Creator: Kennedy, Robin Hamill.
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Robin
Kennedy, a lawyer and the wife of former Stanford president Donald Kennedy, discusses
her early interest in politics, meeting John W. Gardner for the first time in
Washington, DC, and her friendship with Gardner after he returned to Stanford in 1989.
Kennedy recounts how her mother's involvement with the Democratic Party sparked her
interest in politics at a young age. She explains how this love for government led her
to declare the public policy major at Stanford. While interning in Washington, DC, as
an undergraduate, she met Gardner for the first time and was struck by his genuine
interest in the students' intellectual interests and ambitions, especially in his
support of the aspirations of her and her female classmates. She further recalls
Gardner's eloquence, positive public presence, and his passion for public service.
Kennedy concludes by expressing her appreciation for Gardner's support for her husband
during his time as president of Stanford University.
Kilberg, Bobbie & Bill 2019-09-21
Bobbie and Bill Kilberg - Recordings
Bobbie and Bill Kilberg - Transcript
Creator: Kilberg, Barbara G. (Barbara Greene),
1944-
Creator: Kilberg, William J.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Bobbie Greene
Kilberg and Bill Kilberg describe their education, their selection as members of the
White House Fellows Class of 1969-1970, and their fellowships in the White House and
the Labor Department. They share memories of the relationship they formed with John W.
Gardner as a result of the fellowship, reflect on Gardner's philosophy and his legacy,
and speak about their involvement with the White House Fellows over the years. Bobbie
Kilberg also speaks briefly about her time on the board of Common Cause.
Kirst, Michael W. 2018-05-03
Mike Kirst - Recordings
Mike Kirst - Transcript
Creator: Kirst, Michael W.
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Michael W.
"Mike" Kirst, president of the California State Board of Education and an emeritus
professor of education at Stanford University, discusses his early career in
government, teaching education at Stanford University, and his personal and
professional relationship with John W. Gardner. Upon graduating from the Kennedy
School of Government at Harvard, Kirst worked for a task force on education led by
Gardner during Lyndon B. Johnson's administration, and he recounts stories from that
time, including meeting with President Johnson to offer a cost estimate for the task
force's recommendations. He later became the associate director of the White House
Fellowship, and recalls that Gardner was very involved in shaping the experience of
the fellows. After working in the Johnson administration and then in the Senate, Kirst
came to Stanford to teach in the School of Education, and he discusses making that
shift. Upon Gardner's return to Stanford in 1989, their families would frequently have
dinner together. He fondly recalls those dinners and recounts stories from that time.
He also comments on Aida Gardner's personality and the enduring strength of her
marriage to John Gardner. Other topics include Gardner's emphasis on the importance of
government, his focus late in his career on the power of local government, his belief
in the need for campaign finance reform, and hiring Milbrey McLaughlin as the founding
director for the Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities.
Kirst, Wendy 2018-10-10
Wendy Kirst - Recordings
Wendy Kirst - Transcript
Creator: Kirst, Wendy
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Wendy Kirst
shares memories of the times that she and John W. Gardner crossed paths during his
lifetime. She begins by describing her youth in Chicago, her college education at
Smith, and her time in secretarial school. Kirst then recalls how she was hired to
work as "secretary number two" for Gardner when he was at the Urban Coalition and
describes following him to Common Cause. Years later, Kirst reconnected with Gardner
when he moved back to Stanford and into a house near the Kirsts. She shares details of
hosting Gardner's 80th birthday party and memories of Gardner and his wife,
Aida.
Kouzes, Jim 2018-07-31
Jim Kouzes - Recordings
Jim Kouzes - Transcript
Creator: Kouzes, James M.,
1945-
Creator: Prabhu, Anirudh
Abstract: James M.
"Jim" Kouzes discusses his early life and career, his work in the field of leadership
studies, his interactions with John W. Gardner, and how Gardner influenced his work.
Kouzes recalls growing up in an army family in Maryland and Virginia where frequent
visits to Washington, DC, sparked his early interest in government and led him to
pursue an undergraduate degree in political science at Michigan State University. He
discusses being strongly influenced by John F. Kennedy's call to public service, which
led him to join the Peace Corps. Turning to his career in leadership studies, Kouzes
describes founding the Joint Center for Human Services Development at San Jose State
University, and his transition to Santa Clara University. At Santa Clara, he met Barry
Posner, with whom he would coauthor several books, including the award-winning best
seller The Leadership Challenge. Kouzes notes that he first became familiar with
Gardner when he read Self-Renewal in the 1960s. Reflecting on the impact that
Gardner's ideas have had on his work, Kouzes discusses several common themes,
including the democratization of leadership, the importance of credibility, respect
for diversity, and the role that feedback plays. He describes Gardner as an exemplary
leader, who was both gracious and generous. Kouzes concludes by encouraging people in
leadership roles to read Gardner's work.
Lambert, Jane Lynch 2017-09-27
Janet Lynch Lambert - Recordings
Janet Lynch Lambert - Transcript
Creator: Lambert, Janet Lynch
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Janet Lynch
Lambert discusses her experience as a member of the first class of John W. Gardner
Fellows in 1985 and provides details about her background and her career in the public
and private sector. Lambert begins by speaking about her youth in Omaha, Nebraska, her
parents, and her interest in politics, policy, and government. She describes how she
came to Stanford as an undergraduate in the early 1980s and recalls how her academic
advisor Condoleezza Rice encouraged her to apply for the new John W. Gardner
Fellowship as she neared graduation. Lambert describes her fellowship year during
which she worked in the office of Colorado Senator Gary Hart in Washington, DC. She
also shares memories of her friendships with the other fellows. In the final part of
the interview, Lambert describes her career in health policy and the lessons she took
away from her fellowship. She shares memories of John W. Gardner in his later years
and describes how his work and philosophy inspired her. She concludes by discussing
her involvement with the John Gardner Fellowship Association.
Lane, Joan Fletcher 2017-07-10
Joan Lane - Recordings
Joan Lane - Transcript
Creator: Lane,
Joan Fletcher
Creator: Schofield, Susan W.
Abstract: Joan Lane
offers her impressions of John Gardner and comments on Gardner's friendship with her
late husband, Melvin B. Lane. According to Lane, Gardner and Mel Lane were both
members of the Bohemian Club and spent time together at the Sempervirens camp at the
Bohemian Grove every summer. When Gardner decided to retire from the Bohemian Club,
Mel Lane set up the "lunch bunch" so that Gardner and a small group of friends could
meet for lunch once a month and not lose contact. Reflecting on Gardner's impact on
her husband, Lane remarks that Gardner set high standards and encouraged him to go
beyond the bounds of his work at Lane Publishing and become engaged with community
affairs. Lane credits Gardner, as a Stanford trustee, with a deep understanding of the
anger and alienation students were feeling in the 1960s, and in response instigating
the move of trustee meetings to the campus from more remote San Francisco, and
devising the system by which alumni trustees were brought onto the board to increase
youth and diversity. She also expresses admiration for Gardner's wife, Aida, and his
daughter Francesca (Checka), and speaks briefly about her own service as a member of
the board of the John Gardner Center for Youth and Their Families. A great personal
admirer of John Gardner and his writings, Lane closes by suggesting she may go back
and read his books again.
LeCuyer, Jack 2019-04-05
Jack LeCuyer - Recordings
Jack LeCuyer - Transcript
Creator: LeCuyer, Jack A.
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Jack LeCuyer
describes how the White House Fellows Foundation and Association has changed over the
years and his work as executive director from 1996 to 1999 and provides his
impressions of John W. Gardner as a leader. Of special note is LeCuyer's description
of an important 1999 meeting at which Gardner urged him to ensure the fellows worked
to develop a community of mutual support and mentorship. Other topics include
LeCuyer's description of his youth in Greeley, Colorado; his education at Tufts
University and West Point, his military service, and his participation in the Olmstead
Scholarship Program, including time spent in Florence, Italy.
McLaughlin, Milbrey W. 2017-02-21-2017-03-28
Milbrey McLaughlin - Recordings
Milbrey McLaughlin - Transcript
Creator: McLaughlin, Milbrey
Wallin
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Milbrey
McLaughlin, the David Jack Professor Emeritus of Education and Public Policy, shares
her memories of working with John W. Gardner and describes aspects of her career in
the field of education policy, including the founding of the John W. Gardner Center
for Youth and Their Communities. McLaughlin describes how an experience as a college
admissions representative who visited high schools throughout the country led to an
epiphany about disparities in education and fueled her interest in policy work. She
describes the circumstances that led her to leave the RAND Corporation for a position
at Stanford's Graduate School of Education in 1983 and speaks about establishing the
federally funded Center for Research on the Context of Teaching when Mike Smith was
the dean of the GSE. Turning to John W. Gardner, McLaughlin describes the founding of
the John Gardner Fellowship Program and the John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their
Communities. She describes the importance of the John W. Gardner Center and why its
mission mattered to John Gardner and talks about the Youth Data Archive project that
the center initiated. She concludes the interview by sharing memories of Gardner and
reflecting on his character and legacy.
Meléndez, Sara 2018-04-19
Sara Meléndez - Recordings
Sara Meléndez - Transcript
Creator: Meléndez, Sara
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Sara
Meléndez, president and CEO of Independent Sector from 1994 to 2002, reflects on her
career in public service and her time at Independent Sector. Meléndez begins the
interview by discussing her early years in Puerto Rico and her family's immigration to
New York. She recalls the difficulty of transitioning from a rural part of Puerto Rico
to urban New York City, her family's struggles to establish themselves, and the
sacrifices they made. She also fondly recalls her early love of education, learning,
and libraries. Following her mother's death in her last weeks of high school, Meléndez
attended Brooklyn College, where she earned a degree in English. After a brief
marriage and return to Puerto Rico, she describes working as a secretary in New York
to support her young son. She eventually transitioned to teaching as part of a
bilingual program in Brooklyn. She describes her decision to continue her education at
Harvard as part of a Ford Foundation fellowship for minorities and how Harvard opened
doors for her. She goes on to describe her post-Harvard career in the Office of
Minority Concerns at the American Council on Education with Reginald Wilson, as vice
provost at University of Bridgeport, as CEO of the Center for Applied Linguistics, and
finally as the CEO of Independent Sector. In the latter part of the interview,
Meléndez describes meeting John W. Gardner and fondly recalls the working partnership
of Gardner and Brian O'Connell. She describes how she viewed the important work of
Independent Sector and recalls Independent Sector's interactions with various
politicians at the time. She concludes the interview by sharing memories of John
Gardner and the planning of his memorial services.
Miller, Arjay 2017-03-28
Arjay Miller - Recordings
Arjay Miller - Transcript
Creator: Miller, Arjay.
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Rawley John
"Arjay" Miller, Jr., who was the president of the Ford Motor Company and later served
as the dean of the Stanford Graduate School of Business, discusses his early life in
Nebraska, studying economics at UCLA, his career at Ford and at Stanford, and his
close friendship with John W. Gardner. Topics covered include Miller's role as one of
the ten "Whiz Kids" at Ford in the post-war era, his decision to accept the deanship
at Stanford, and his belief in the importance of business and philanthropy to
Stanford's future. He recounts several specific stories regarding his relationship
with John W. Gardner, including his reflections on reading Self-Renewal, Gardner
asking him to spend more time on Common Cause, memories from Gardner's so- called
"lunch bunch," and Gardner's decision to turn down Lyndon B. Johnson's request that he
run for the Senate. Miller expresses his deep admiration for Gardner's ability to
inspire, comparing his mastery over language to none other than William Shakespeare.
He makes the case that Stanford should more formally recognize Gardner's
contributions.
Milton, Catherine 2017-04-11-2017-06-29
Catherine Milton - Recordings
Catherine Milton - Transcript
Creator: Milton, Catherine H.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Catherine
Milton shares memories of her youth on the East Coast and her college years at Mount
Holyoke. Milton describes how John F. Kennedy's "Ask not what your country can do for
you--ask what you can do for your country" speech inspired her to become involved in
public service and policy. She also recalls how witnessing injustice in the Jim
Crow-era South inspired her to use her career to address problems in the world. Milton
describes the trajectory of her early career, which eventually led her to Washington,
DC. She recalls meeting her future husband Tom McBride and their shared passion for
public service and comments briefly on McBride's work in the Peace Corps and with
Bobby Kennedy. Milton also describes meeting future Stanford president, Donald Kennedy
while in DC and how he later paved the way for Milton and McBride to come to Stanford.
Milton recalls the lack of attention to public policy and public service at Stanford
upon her arrival and tells the story of the founding of the Public Service Center,
later the Haas Center for Public Service. She remembers meeting John W. Garner for the
first time and speaks about his mentorship both during her years at Stanford and later
when she returned to Washington, DC. Milton describes the founding of the John Gardner
Fellowship Program at Stanford and Berkeley. She concludes the interview by sharing
memories of Gardner and advice he gave her as well as thoughts on his
legacy.
Moguel, David 2017-12-19
David Moguel - Recordings
David Moguel - Transcript
Creator: Moguel, David L.,
1965-
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: David L.
Moguel, professor of secondary education at California State University, Northridge,
and co-president of the John Gardner Fellowship Association, discusses growing up with
immigrant parents in Los Angeles, studying as an undergraduate student at Stanford,
and working in the San Francisco Unified School District as a John Gardner Public
Service Fellow. He also discusses the trajectory of his career, including attending
the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, pursuing a presidential management
fellowship in Washington, teaching in South-Central LA, getting his PhD at UCLA, and
working on reforming teacher preparation. Moguel talks about the public service
environment at Stanford when he was an undergraduate student, including his work at El
Centro Chicano y Latino and the beginnings of the Haas Center. He recounts his first
meeting with John W. Gardner after he secured the fellowship opportunity. Moguel also
discusses the current state of the fellowship and the fellowship association, how to
articulate Gardner's legacy to future fellows who did not know him personally, and the
importance of Gardner's concept of renewal.
Needle, Lorne 2017-08-30
Lorne Needle - Recordings
Lorne Needle - Transcript
Creator: Needle, Lorne
Creator: Feder, Abby
Abstract: Lorne Needle,
a John Gardner Fellow in 1987, shares his memories of a career in public service and
the mentorship John W. Gardner provided. Needle begins by describing his early years
in Los Angeles and a subsequent move to Connecticut for his father's job at IBM. He
recalls his decision to return to California for college and how he chose Stanford.
Needle recalls first becoming engaged in his high school community and how thankful he
was to attend Stanford with support from a scholarship from IBM. While initially
unsure about what to major in, Needle eventually decided to major in public policy.
While an undergraduate student, Needle became involved with the Public Service Center,
now the Haas Center for Public Service. Through the Public Service Center, he spent
much of his undergraduate career launching and working with the East Palo Alto
Stanford Academy [EPASA]. Needle recalls his initial reluctance at working with
children, but how he eventually fell in love with it and was grateful for the support
of the Public Service Center. Needle also shares memories of some of the people active
at the Public Service Center in its early years, including Catherine Milton. Needle
describes his awe at meeting John W. Gardner for the first time at an event held by
the Center. Later, with Milton's encouragement, Needle decided to apply for the John
Gardner Fellowship Program. Needle goes on to describe his fellowship year at
Public/Private Ventures working to build youth programs in Philadelphia. He recalls
his initial boredom and fear in the position before finding his footing and, as Needle
describes it, "learning leadership." He went on to work for the South Baltimore Youth
Center and the Maryland Low Income Housing Coalition. Needle recalls visiting Gardner
in Washington, DC, during these years to seek Gardner's advice. Despite Gardner's fear
of losing him to Wall Street and the business world, Needle returned to Stanford to
attend the Graduate School of Business. Needle recalls his relationship with Gardner,
who had moved back to California, during these years and the mentorship he provided.
He describes how important it was to him to use his business school education to help
people and benefit the community. Needle goes on to speak about the early planning of
the John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities and his personal
involvement as a consultant for the center. He describes his continued involvement
with the Haas Center, EPASA, and the John Gardner Fellowship. He concludes the
interview with thoughts on Gardner's character and the importance of his
legacy.
Noor, Waseem 2018-03-09
Waseem Noor - Recordings
Waseem Noor - Transcript
Creator: Noor, Waseem
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Waseem Noor,
executive director of Russell Reynolds Associates, a former John Gardner Public
Service Fellow, and former president of the John Gardner Fellowship Association
(JGFA), discusses being mentored by John W. Gardner and the important lessons he
learned from Gardner's speeches and writings. Noor recalls his involvement with the
Haas Center for Public Service as an undergraduate, where he developed his passion for
public service. He recounts meeting John W. Gardner for the first time at a Haas
Center event and being struck by Gardner's lack of superficiality. Noor discusses the
power of Gardner's famous 1991 commencement address on renewal and leadership. He also
talks about getting to know Gardner more closely through the Gardner Fellowship,
noting the power of Gardner's understated mentoring approach. He explains how the
desire to create a network to bring together both past and current fellows led to the
creation of the John Gardner Fellowship Association. Noor finishes by reflecting on
Gardner's impressive commitment to his family, his lessons on leadership, and the
wonderful example that his life was.
Novogratz, Jacqueline 2020-02-14
Jacqueline Novogratz - Recordings
Jacqueline Novogratz - Transcript
Creator: Novogratz, Jacqueline
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Jacqueline
Novogratz, CEO of Acumen, speaks about her friendship with John W . Gardner and his
role as a mentor to her. Novogratz describes her childhood, growing up in many places
due to her father's military career. She recalls meeting John W. Gardner while a
student at Stanford's Graduate School of Business, and shares memories of taking
classes with him. She also describes some of the ways in which Gardner advised her,
including introducing her to Jing Lyman, the wife of Stanford President Dick Lyman.
She reflects on her own career at Acumen and how Gardner's philosophies and lessons
still impact her work. Throughout, Novogratz shares memories of interactions with
Gardner and reflects on his legacy.
Osberg, Sally 2018-09-20
Sally Osberg - Recordings
Sally Osberg - Transcript
Creator: Osberg, Sally R.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Sally Osberg,
the founding executive director of the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose and the
president and CEO of the Skoll Foundation from 2001 to 2018, shares her perspectives
on John W. Gardner and his influence on a younger generation of Silicon Valley
entrepreneurs. Osberg describes her upbringing on the East Coast, her move to
California, and the development of the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose. She
recalls meeting John W. Gardner through the American Leadership Forum and introducing
him to Jeff Skoll. She offers details on Skoll's philanthropic activities and the
concept of social entrepreneurship, reflects on how Gardner influenced Skoll and
others, and speaks about Gardner's personality and lasting legacy.
Pham, Kien 2019-07-03
Kien Pham - Recordings
Kien Pham - Transcript
Creator: Pham,
Kien
Creator: Mancini, Nancy
Abstract: Kien Pham,
the president and co-founder of the Vietnam Foundation and vice chairman of the
VietnamNet Media Group, reflects on the impact John W. Gardner and the community of
White House Fellows have had on his life. Pham recalls immigrating to Colorado from
Vietnam in 1977, his path to Stanford's Graduate School of Business, and his selection
as a White House Fellow in the class of 1985-1986. He provides examples of meaningful
connections with other White House Fellows, including his work at Tenneco with Michael
Walsh and Dana Mead. He concludes by describing Gardner's wisdom and sharing memories
from a White House Fellows trip to Vietnam.
Reese, Jennifer 2019-09-24
Jennifer Reese - Recordings
Jennifer Reese - Transcript
Creator: Reese, Jennifer
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Jennifer
Reese shares memories of her grandparents John W . Gardner and Aida Marroquin Gardner.
She describes spending summers at her grandparents' home in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and
shares what she knows of the family history, including impressions of John Gardner's
mother, Marie Burns. Reese reflects on her relationship with each of her grandparents,
offering anecdotes and recollections that speak to the private aspects of their lives.
She also recalls her time at Stanford and her writing career.
Reese, Justine 2019-03-18
Justine Reese - Transcript
Creator: Reese, Justine
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Justine Reese
shares memories of her grandparents John W. Gardner and Aida Marroquin Gardner. Reese
describes spending summers at her grandparent's home in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and
offers impressions of her grandparents and her mother, Francesca Gardner. She
describes her grandfather's willingness to share his network connections with her and
her awareness of his high profile status and accomplishments and his many mentees. She
also reflects on his legacy.
Audio recording available only by request to University Archives
(universityarchives@stanford.edu)
Rockefeller, Sharon Percy 2017-09-28
Sharon Rockefeller - Recordings
Sharon Rockefeller - Transcript
Creator: Rockefeller, Sharon Percy,
1944-
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Sharon Percy
Rockefeller is the longtime president and CEO of WETA, Washington DC's flagship PBS
station. Married to retired Senator John D. "Jay" Rockefeller IV (D-WVA), she was also
the First Lady of West Virginia when her husband served as governor in the early years
of their marriage. Her friendship with John Gardner goes back many years. Gardner knew
her father, Senator Charles "Chuck" Percy, (R-Illinois), and was friends with her
father-in-law, John D. Rockefeller III. She attended Stanford, graduating in 1966 with
a double major in French literature and political science. Rockefeller discusses her
early years in California and Chicago and her father's transition from the CEO of Bell
& Howell to running for political office. She recalls winning a Stanford in
Government fellowship to work on the Hill for John V. Lindsay and then for Gerald
Ford. She later became deeply engaged with the formation of the Stanford in Washington
program and still serves on its advisory council. She also touches on the home
invasion that led to the unsolved murder of her twin sister, Valerie, in 1966.
Rockefeller explains how her experience campaigning with her father helped prepare her
for the challenges of a Rockefeller aspiring to political office in a poor state like
West Virginia. She reflects on her husband's challenges in living out his values as a
member of the Rockefeller family. She discusses teaching in Head Start, the founding
of Mountain Artisans, and her contributions in the early days of public radio and
educational television. Rockefeller discusses serving on the Stanford Board of
Trustees with John Gardner and Sandra Day O'Connor. She talks about being in a tiny
minority of women on the board and the struggle to diversify its members. Gardner
served on the board of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and Rockefeller discusses his
role on the board and his resignation in the face of conflict over leadership
succession. She recounts how she and Gardner would discuss the art of leadership and
his advocacy for women in leadership roles. Finally, Rockefeller reviews notes from
Cynthia Hahn Yothers, her former executive assistant who also worked with John Gardner
for twenty years, recalling Gardner's varied contributions and several paths not
taken.
Shulman, Lee S. 2018-12-06
Lee Shulman - Recordings
Lee Shulman - Transcript
Creator: Shulman, Lee S.
Creator: Schmidt-Posner, Jackie
Abstract: Lee Shulman,
president of The Carnegie Foundation from 1997 to 2008 and a professor emeritus at
Stanford's Graduate School of Education, describes his "close and episodic"
relationship with John W. Gardner. He recalls how they came to know one another when
Shulman was conceptualizing a national board for teaching and Gardner was a member of
the Carnegie Commission on the Future of the Teaching Profession. He recalls advice
Gardner gave him when he was considering the opportunity to assume the Carnegie
presidency, reflects on Gardner's moral sensibility and writing style, and tells the
story of how an in-depth conversation with Gardner on a flight from Washington, DC,
led Gardner to present him with a cartoon drawn by James Thurber that was once owned
by both William Benton and Robert Maynard Hutchins. Shulman also provides information
on his own and his work in education and education policy and the path that led him to
Stanford.
Sidebottom, Peter 2019-09-25-2019-11-22
Peter Sidebottom - Recordings
Peter Sidebottom - Transcript
Creator: Sidebottom, Peter J.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Peter
Sidebottom, a member of the first class of John Gardner Fellows in 1985-1986,
describes his fellowship year with Mayor Henry Cisneros in San Antonio, Texas, and
reflects on the impact Gardner, Cisneros, and the fellowship had on his life and
career. He also shares memories of Gardner and his approach to mentoring and discusses
the formation of the John Gardner Fellowship Association. Sidebottom begins by
describing his path from Bishop, California, to Stanford and the origins of his
interest in public policy. He recalls his involvement with the Haas Center for Public
Service and the connections he made with University President Donald Kennedy and
Catherine Milton. He recalls the process of applying for the newly-formed John Gardner
Fellowship and how his assignment came about, and describes his active role in Mayor
Cisneros's small office with major responsibilities that included coordinating the
delivery of relief supplies after a major earthquake in Mexico City. He recalls how he
came to know John W. Gardner and describes Gardner's effective co- mentoring approach
and some of his memorable advice. He also discusses his role in facilitating Rick
Stamberger's documentary about Gardner, shares memories of Aida Gardner and the
formation of the John Gardner Fellowship Association, and reflects on Gardner's
legacy.
Sievers, Bruce 2017-05-23
Bruce Sievers - Recordings
Bruce Sievers - Transcript
Creator: Sievers, Bruce R.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Bruce
Sievers, a senior leader in the public humanities and a Visiting Scholar at the Haas
Center for Public Service and the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society at
Stanford, provides details about his career in the humanities councils of Montana and
California and recounts key moments in John W. Gardner's engagement with Stanford and
the Bay Area philanthropic community in the 1980s and 1990s. Topics covered include
the decision of the Walter and Elise Haas Fund to support the John Gardner Public
Service Fellowship, the establishment of the Public Service Center (now the Hass
Center for Public Service) and the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society (PACS
Center), and the creation of the Miriam and Peter Haas Centennial Professorship in
Public Service that brought Gardner back to Stanford from Washington, DC, in 1989.
Sievers also reflects on Gardner's legacy, mentioning Gardner's work with Common Cause
and Independent Sector as well as his writings, speeches, and ability to inspire
people to action.
Smith, Marshall 2017-12-07
Bruce Sievers - Recordings
Bruce Sievers - Transcript
Creator: Sievers, Bruce R.
Creator: Schmidt-Posner, Jackie
Abstract: Marshall S.
"Mike" Smith, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of
Teaching, discusses his career path after graduating from Harvard University, talks
John Gardner's return to Stanford University, and reflects on Gardner's legacy. Smith
recounts directing research for a seminar on the 1966 Coleman Report on the equality
of education. He then talks about coming to Stanford as the dean of the School of
Education in 1986, where he made it his priority to increase the diversity of the
faculty. He also discusses his joint appointment in the Graduate School of Education
and the Graduate School of Business. Other topics Smith addressed include Gardner's
work as president of the Carnegie Corporation, his tenure as secretary of the
Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and his turn to bottom-up advocacy as
founder of Common Cause and Independent Sector. Smith concludes by reflecting on
Gardner's broad strategic vision and productive career.
Somerville, Bill 2017-06-08
Bill Somerville - Recordings
Bill Somerville - Transcript
Creator: Somerville, Bill,
1932-
Creator: Schmidt-Posner, Jackie
Abstract: Bill
Somerville, founder of the Philanthropic Ventures Foundation, discusses his early life
in Berkeley, his long and productive career in philanthropy, and serving with John W.
Gardner on the National Advisory Board of the Haas Center for Public Service at
Stanford University. Somerville talks about growing up in Berkeley and later attending
UC Berkeley. He then worked for the university, and he reflects on starting the
minority recruiting program and the work-study program at Cal. He also discusses his
friendship with J. Herman Blake. Somerville recounts his early work in philanthropy,
including for the Alameda County Community Foundation and the Peninsula Community
Foundation. He also talks about starting the Wright Institute at UC Berkeley, which
offers graduate degrees in clinical psychology. He discusses his friendship and
professional relationship with Thomas Ford, the famous real estate developer and
philanthropist. Through Catherine Milton, Somerville became involved with the Haas
Center, and he discusses his time on the National Advisory Board (NAB), including his
role in starting fellowships focused on philanthropy such as the Tom Ford Fellowship.
He discusses John Gardner's presence in board meetings, and describes Gardner as
diplomatic and strategic, yet understated. He also talks about issues that arose
during NAB meetings, including debates over offering students academic credit for
public service, which Gardner supported. He recounts Gardner's role in pushing for
service learning at Stanford.
Srinivasan, Srija 2017-08-01
Srija Srinivasan - Recordings
Srija Srinivasan - Transcript
Creator: Srinivasan, Srija
Creator: Feder, Abby
Abstract: Srija
Srinivasan, deputy chief of the San Mateo County Health system, discusses studying at
Stanford University, her time as a John Gardner Public Service Fellow, her career in
health policy, and being mentored by John W. Gardner. Srinivasan majored in human
biology as an undergraduate at Stanford, and she explains how Stanford President
Donald Kennedy's emphasis on public service inspired her. As a John Gardner Public
Service Fellow, she worked for the Government Accountability Office (then called the
General Accounting Office) on health financing and policy issues. Srinivasan discusses
that experience and expresses her appreciation for the mentorship of Janet Shikles at
the GAO. Srinivasan also talks about the importance of the fellowship network
coordinated by Jeanne Halleck. Srinivasan continued corresponding with Gardner after
the fellowship, and she recalls the promptness and thoughtfulness of his responses, as
well as his willingness to meet with her anytime she was on the Stanford campus. She
remembers interviewing Gardner for a class she took while pursuing her MBA at
Stanford, and was surprised to learn that, of all his accomplishments, Gardner felt
that his writings had the greatest impact. She mentions being personally struck by his
work, including Building Community. Srinivasan also discusses remaining involved in
the fellowship through the John Gardner Fellowship Association and by serving on the
selection committee. She remembers being struck by how excited John Gardner was about
the fellowship. She recounts stories from the memorial service for Gardner held in
Memorial Church and the weekend retreat for fellowship alumni held in Asilomar a year
after his passing.
Stamberger, Rick 2017-09-22
Rick Stamberger - Recordings
Rick Stamberger - Transcript
Creator: Stamberger, Rick
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Rick
Stamberger, president and CEO of SmartBrief, Inc. and a former White House fellow,
discusses his early involvement with politics, entering the business world, and his
work on the documentary on John W. Gardner titled John Gardner: Uncommon American.
Stamberger discusses growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, and his work for Gerald Ford's
presidential campaign. He recalls attending Northwestern University, transferring to
Williams College where he studied History, and then becoming a reporter. He explains
his decision to move to Washington, DC, to work for the National Cable Television
Association. He then talks about his White House Fellowship working for Vice President
George H.W. Bush, where he focused on encouraging tax reform and engaging the
African-American community. Stamberger recounts his decision to attend Harvard
Business School and working in consulting before founding SmartBrief. He also talks
about serving on Barack Obama's transition team. Stamberger then discusses the process
of creating John Gardner: Uncommon American and fundraising for it. He notes how
difficult it was to find people willing to criticize Gardner. Stamberger reflects on
Gardner's life and legacy, including Gardner's decision to leave the White House in
protest of the Vietnam War, his productivity late into his life, his genuine interest
in the lives of other people, and his commitment to his family. Stamberger concludes
by discussing the singular importance of Gardner's example.
Stanton, Tim 2018-08-14
Tim Stanton - Recordings
Tim Stanton - Transcript
Creator: Stanton, Timothy K.
Creator: Schmidt-Posner, Jackie
Abstract: Tim Stanton,
Associate Director and Director of the Haas Center for Public Service at Stanford from
1985 to 1999, shares his memories of John W. Gardner and the importance of service
learning in higher education. Stanton begins by describing how while working at
Cornell University he came across a piece written by Stanford president Don Kennedy on
the importance of public service. He recalls meeting with Kennedy and Catherine Milton
to learn about Stanford's Public Service Center, now the Haas Center for Public
Service--a meeting that resulted in Stanton's hiring at Stanford. Stanton recalls
first coming across John W. Gardner in high school when his mother gave him one of
Gardner's books to read. He describes his admiration for Gardner upon his arrival at
Stanford and the establishment of the Haas Professorship at the Public Service Center.
He recalls how meaningful it was to later have Gardner on Stanford's campus and around
the Public Service Center. Stanton emphasizes the importance of having Don Kennedy's
support in furthering the role of public service in the Stanford education and
describes the work that he and Gardner did with other universities as part of Campus
Compact. He concludes the interview by reflecting on the importance of Gardner's
legacy today.
Steyer, Elizabeth 2017-10-27
Elizabeth Steyer - Recordings
Elizabeth Steyer - Transcript
Creator: Steyer, Elizabeth Butler
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Elizabeth
Butler Steyer, executive director of the Athletic Scholars Advancement Program (ASAP)
and a former John Gardner Public Service Fellow, discusses developing an interest for
public service as an undergraduate at Stanford University, her career in law as a
child advocate, and John W. Gardner's mentorship. Steyer talks about her early life
growing up in California and attending Stanford, where she studied Human Biology. She
recounts becoming involved in the Public Service Center through a summer fellowship
working for a theater company in Southern California. She then discusses her Gardner
Fellowship working for the Children's Defense Fund in Washington, DC, where Gardner
introduced her to Sandra Day O'Connor. Next, Steyer talks about her decision to attend
Stanford Law School where she became involved with the East Palo Alto Community Law
Project. She then discusses receiving a Skadden Fellowship and working with Legal
Services for Children and the National Center for Youth Law. She reflects on joining
ASAP as its first executive director and her work with the organization. Steyer also
explains her involvement with the selection committee for the Gardner Fellowship,
including changes to make the Fellowship more accessible. She discusses the creation
of the John Gardner Fellowship Association. She concludes by reflecting on the
importance of Gardner's writings, including Self-Renewal, and his unique mentorship
style which emphasized sustained and genuine engagement with his mentees' personal
lives.
Stroud, Susan 2018-04-18
Susan Stroud - Recordings
Susan Stroud - Transcript
Creator: Stroud, Susan
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Susan Stroud,
a national leader in public service and education, discusses her early life, her long
and productive career, and her interactions with John W. Gardner during the creation
of Campus Compact, for which she served as the founding executive director. Stroud
recounts growing up in a military family, studying English literature at Duke
University and the University of Leicester, and later teaching in a low-income
community on Martha's Vineyard after graduation. She then talks about working for the
College Venture Consortium at Northeastern University and at Brown University. Stroud
fondly recalls working with Howard Swearer, who was president of Brown at the time, to
start the Center for Public Service there. While at Brown, Stroud began to coordinate
public service efforts with other universities, and she explains how this
collaboration eventually led to the creation of Campus Compact. She discusses the
challenges that the new organization faced, including the issue of diversifying its
participants beyond elite institutions. Other topics in this interview include her
contribution to the creation of AmeriCorps and Learn to Serve during the Clinton
administration; her work for the Ford Foundation on overseas programs, including
higher education in South Africa following the end of Apartheid; serving as executive
director for Innovations in Civic Participation; and the creation of the Talloires
Network through Tufts University. Stroud discusses the enormous impact that Gardner
had on the people with whom he worked, including the presidents of prominent
universities. She highlights the importance of his role as a strategic thinker and
public intellectual, pointing to his books such as Self-Renewal and On Leadership. She
also emphasizes Gardner's belief in the responsibility that people have to serve
society, regardless of their career or discipline.
Trimble, John Gardner 2018-07-16-2018-08-13
Gardner Trimble - Recordings
Gardner Trimble - Transcript
Creator: Trimble, John Gardner
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: John Gardner
Trimble shares memories of his grandparents John W. Gardner and Aida Gardner. Along
with his mother and younger brother, Trimble lived with his grandparents during the
1970s in Chevy Chase, Maryland. He relates anecdotes from both that time and when the
family later relocated to California, recalling his grandfather's work ethic, his more
playful side, and his presence as a public figure. He also shares what he knows about
his extended family's history, offers thoughts on his grandfather's life and legacy,
and provides information about his own education and career.
Trimble, Stephanie Gardner 2019-04-19-2019-06-12
Stephanie Trimble - Interview
Creator: Trimble, Stephanie
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Stephanie Gardner Trimble,
daughter of John W. Gardner, shares memories of her father and reflects on his legacy.
Trimble shares what she knows about her father's upbringing, education, and early
years of marriage with Aida Marroquin, before turning to her own memories of her
childhood during World War II. She reflects on her father's career with the Carnegie
Corporation in New York and later in Washington, DC, as a member of Lyndon B.
Johnson's cabinet. She also speaks about the roles that her parents played in helping
to raise her two sons. She concludes the interview by describing her father's final
years at Stanford and reflecting on his legacy today. Throughout, she speaks about
John W. Gardner's relationships with his family including his mother Marie Burns, his
wife, his daughter Checka, and his grandchildren. Other topics covered include his
work with the Office of Strategic Services; his political views and networks; and his
legacy as a mentor.
Access to this interview is limited to approved researchers. Audio recordings are not
available. Please contact University Archives (universityarchives@stanford.edu) if
interested.
Trimble, William 2018-12-23
Billy Trimble - Recordings
Billy Trimble - Transcript
Creator: Trimble, William
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Billy
Trimble, John W. Gardner's grandson, shares memories of his grandfather. Along with
his mother and older brother, Trimble lived with John and Aida Gardner during the
1970s in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Trimble recalls his grandparents entertaining members
of Washington society, his grandfather's work ethic, and the more playful side of
Gardner, who fulfilled a sort of father figure role in the boys' lives.
Vargas, Carole Bialek 2019-06-22
Carole Vargas - Recordings
Carole Vargas - Transcript
Creator: Vargas, Carole Bialek
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Carole Vargas
shares memories about her early life and education, her year as a John Gardner Fellow
at Independent Sector and advice she received from Gardner during that time, and her
career in public service. Vargas describes her early exposure to public service and
politics while growing up in Carmel, California, and describes some of the challenges
she faced as an undergraduate at UC Berkeley. She recalls how she came to be a member
of the first class of Gardner Fellows in 1985-1986 and her placement at Independent
Sector. She talks about the opportunities the fellowship offered and tells stories
that illustrate some of the difficulties fellows encountered during the program's
early years, including slim financial resources and a lack of support for finding
housing. She reflects on how her Independent Sector mentor, Sandra Gray, taught her
how to recover from mistakes--a lesson she has taken with her throughout her career.
She concludes by reflecting on some of the opportunities and challenges facing the
John Gardner Fellowship Association.
Wertheimer, Fred 2018-04-17
Fred Wertheimer - Recordings
Fred Wertheimer - Transcript
Creator: Wertheimer, Fred
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Fred
Wertheimer, president and CEO of Democracy 21, discusses his early life, his long
career as an advocate for transparency in government, and his personal and
professional relationship with John W. Gardner. Wertheimer recounts memories from his
childhood in Brooklyn and from his time at the University of Michigan and Harvard Law
School. He discusses going to work for the Securities and Exchange Commission in
Washington, DC, and then joining the staff of Silvio O. Conte, a member of the House
of Representatives from Massachusetts. Wertheimer talks about joining Common Cause,
where he met Gardner. He discusses his role in the organization's work on issues
including campaign finance reform, lobbying reform, and ethics rules. He also reflects
on his tenure as CEO, including working with Archibald Cox, who was then the chair of
the board. He elaborates on his decision to leave Common Cause in order to create
Democracy 21. Throughout the interview, Wertheimer discusses the life and legacy of
John Gardner. Topics covered include Gardner's personal integrity, pride in
authorship, decision to leave Common Cause, mentorship style, skill in building
organizations, commitment to family, decision not to take Robert Kennedy's Senate
seat, and intellectual charisma.
Wirth, Timothy E. 2019-10-04
Tim Wirth - Recordings
Tim Wirth - Transcript
Creator: Wirth, Timothy E.
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Former United
States Senator Timothy Wirth shares memories of John W. Gardner, describes his
experience as a member of the White House Fellows Class of 1967-1968, and recalls
moments from his career in public service and politics. Wirth recalls how his time at
Stanford's Graduate School of Education led him to apply to the White House Fellows
program, where he was assigned to work with Gardner in the Department of Health,
Education and Welfare (HEW). Wirth shares memories from his fellowship year, his time
at HEW, and life in the late 1960s in Washington, DC. He also describes his later
involvement with the White House Fellows Association and reflects on the future of the
program and Gardner's legacy.
Yeung, Linda 2018-04-14
Linda Yeung - Recordings
Linda Yeung - Transcript
Creator: Yeung, Linda
Creator: Wyman, Lyn
Abstract: Linda Yeung,
a John Gardner Fellow from UC Berkeley in 1988-89, shares memories of John Gardner and
of the community built by the fellows since his passing. Yeung begins the interview by
describing her parents' immigration to the United States from Hong Kong and her path
to UC Berkeley. She describes her fellowship year at the Office of the US Trade
Representative working on trade issues in Asia under Peter Allgeier, and she recalls
seeking advice from Gardner about relocating to the Bay Area from Los Angeles years
after her fellowship had ended. Yeung describes her graduate work at the Fletcher
School at Tufts and her experiences as a Coro Fellow in Public Affairs, including her
work with Linda Griego, the deputy mayor of Los Angeles. She concludes the interview
by speaking about Gardner's legacy and the community the fellows have created to keep
his memory alive.
Yothers, Cynthia Hahn 2018-04-25
Cynthia Yothers - Recordings
Cynthia Yothers - Transcript
Creator: Yothers, Cynthia Hahn
Creator: Abel, Suzanne
Abstract: Cynthia Hahn
Yothers, who worked as executive assistant to John W. Gardner for twenty years,
discusses her early life, her career, and her personal and professional relationship
with John Gardner. Yothers recounts moving to Washington, DC, and getting a job with
Common Cause, where she met Gardner. She describes the vibrant energy in the
organization during its early days when it tackled issues including Watergate, the
Vietnam War, and education reform. She characterizes Gardner as an inspirational
leader, principled and disciplined. She emphasizes that he was willing to take
unpopular action, even if it meant alienating friends. Yothers talks about Gardner's
decision to start Independent Sector with Brian O'Connell and discusses Gardner's
participation as a member of the Board of Trustees at Stanford University. Working
with him for so long, Yothers became well acquainted with Gardner and gained insight
into his personality. She describes him as witty, shy, and sometimes absent minded.
She relates information about his early life and his family and discusses her decision
not to accompany him when he returned to California.
John Gardner Fellowship Association Oral History Project 2021-01-2021-09
This series contains fourteen interviews with individuals who were recepients of the
John Gardner Public Service Fellowship. Most interviews contain a transcript, audio
file, and vido file.
In 2020, inspired by the John W. Gardner Legacy Oral History Project, members of the
John Gardner Fellowship Association (JGFA) launched an oral history project to capture
the genesis, history, and development of the John Gardner Public Service Fellowship and
JGFA as the fellowship, established in 1985, approached its forty-year anniversary. The
questions guiding the project were: 1) How has the John Gardner Fellowship Association
and John Gardner inspired individuals to dedicate themselves to public service? What
impact have the Fellows had on the Stanford/ Berkeley community, at the state level, and
at the federal level? How can the John Gardner Fellowship and JGFA continue to have an
impact for the next forty years?
Interviewees included those involved in administering the fellowship and organizing
JGFA, fellows who have spent their lives in public service, and more recent fellows who
are just beginning their careers. Conducted by former fellows, interviews explore
questions about the origins and goals of both the fellowship and JGFA; successes,
challenges, and change over time of the organization; and reflections on the future of
the fellowship. Fellows were asked to reflect on the impact of the fellowship on their
own lives, the highs and lows of their work in public service, how major world and
political events have intersected with their work in public service, and more.
Bimes, Terri 2021-08-21
Terri Bimes - Recordings
Terri Bimes - Transcript
Creator: Bimes, Terri
Creator: Yeung, Linda
Abstract: Terri Bimes speaks about her
experience working as the UC Berkeley administrator for the John Gardner Fellowship
Program, as well as the John Gardner Fellowship Association and the commitment of
program alums. She additionally discusses the leaders of the Institute of Governmental
Studies at UC Berkeley that supported the fellowship and how she has enjoyed seeing
fellows and alums, like Mondaire Jones, flourish in their respective careers. Bimes
highlights her time working with the Stanford directors of the fellowship, especially
Jeanne Halleck, forming connections with the fellows, and the importance of
fundraising for the fellowship at Berkeley.
Cacciotti, Jerry 2021-08-14
Jerry Cacciotti - Recordings
Jerry Cacciotti - Transcript
Creator: Cacciotti, Jerry
Creator: Yeung,
Linda
Abstract: Jerry Cacciotti (John Gardner
Fellow Class of 1985) speaks about the beginning of the John Gardner Fellowship,
including being part of the first cohort of fellows and working with Congressman Lee
Hamilton. He details the creation of the John Gardner Fellowship Association (JGFA),
fundraising for the fellowship, and challenges with fundraising for Berkeley program.
Cacciotti also discusses JGFA retreats at Asilomar and Washington, DC, working with
alum Mondaire Jones and his success, and the importance of collaboration between past
and present fellows.
Carrasco, Anthony 2021-01-22
Anthony Carrasco - Recordings
Anthony Carrasco - Transcript
Creator: Carrasco,
Anthony
Creator: Ramirez,
Marco
Abstract: Anthony Carrasco, a member of the
Gardner Fellows Class of 2019, reflects on his interest in public service and his year
as a John Gardner Fellow. Carrasco spent his fellowship year working with Compass
Family Services, one of the largest homeless service providers in San Francisco. He
speaks to the meaningful work he was able to observe and how it impacted his views on
pursuing a career in public service. Carrasco also describes how both his fellowship
year and the work being done at Compass was impacted by the start of the COVID-19
pandemic.
Chandra, Subodh 2021-02-06
Subodh Chandra - Recordings
Subodh Chandra - Transcript
Creator: Chandra, Subodh
Creator: Fox,
Sean
Abstract: Subodh Chandra (John Gardner
Fellow, Class of 1990) speaks about how growing up in Oklahoma as a child to Indian
immigrants influenced his commitment to public service, and his engagement with public
service during his undergraduate years at Stanford. Chandra discusses his experience
as a John Gardner Fellow and his close relationship with his mentor, then Ohio
Governor Richard F. Celeste. He also details his impressive career in the legal field,
including working as an assistant US attorney, being recruited to be the law director
of the City of Cleveland, and running to be Ohio's attorney general. Chandra talks
about his work on the Tamir Rice case, starting his own public interest law firm from
the private sector, and how the John Gardner Fellowship Association can be
improved.
Feineh, Sam 2021-01-22
Sam Feineh - Recordings
Sam Feineh - Transcript
Creator: Feineh, Sam
Creator: Bimes, Terri
Abstract: Sam Feineh (John Gardner Fellow,
Class of 2019) discusses his upbringing in an Ethiopian Christian household, learning
the values of education and public service, and being involved with Stanford in
Government during his undergraduate career. Feineh describes creating a panel about
racial justice reform in the US during his freshman college year, interning for
Congressman Ami Bera, and working with the American Civil Liberties Union National
Prison Project. He shares memories of his John Gardner Fellowship placement at the
Vera Institute working in bail and sentencing reform, his mentors Insha Rahman and Jim
Parsons, and the effect the COVID-19 pandemic had on bail reform. Feineh emphasizes
the importance of providing more opportunities for current fellows and alums to
connect and how he credits much of his career to the fellowship.
Flores, Andrea 2021-01-19
Andrea Flores - Recordings
Andrea Flores - Transcript
Creator: Flores, Andrea
Creator: Ramirez,
Marco
Abstract: Andrea Flores
(John Gardner Fellow, Class of 2019) speaks about growing up in Waukegan, Illinois and
seeing inequality between her community and others, applying for the John Gardner
Fellowship at Stanford, and the process of finding her mentor and placement. She
describes her placement at America's Voice as a fellow and as an employee, her
impactful mentor Ur Jaddou, and the challenges she faced working during the COVID-19
pandemic. Flores reflects on immigration legislation and offers her thoughts on how
the fellowship can improve by reinforcing its alumni network and offering additional
support for housing and discretionary funding for emergencies.
embargo transcript and audio/video for 10 years (until January 19, 2031)
Huynh, Audrey 2021-01-28
Audrey Huynh - Recordings
Audrey Huynh - Transcript
Creator: Huynh, Audrey
Creator: Bimes, Terri
Abstract: Audrey Huynh
(John Gardner Fellow, Class of 2020) discusses growing up in a biracial family in
Charlotte, North Carolina, her journey to attending Stanford, and her involvement in
different Stanford groups, including the Stanford Human Rights Center, Stanford in
Government, and Stanford in Washington. She shares memories of her fellowship at the
Capital Area Immigrants' Rights Coalition and describes how influential her mentor
Kica Matos has been. Huynh also reflects on staying grounded in one's original source
of motivation, how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her fellowship, and what she
believes the John Gardner Fellowship Association should do to build
community.
embargo transcript and audio/video for 10 years (until January 28, 2031)
Ingersoll, Jeremiah 2021-02-07
Jeremiah Ingersoll - Recordings
Jeremiah Ingersoll - Transcript
Creator: Ingersoll, Jeremiah
Abstract: Jerry Ingersoll is Director of
Job Corps for the US Forest Service in Washington, DC. He's served with the Forest
Service since 1987 in Arkansas, Nevada, Colorado, Alaska, and Oregon. Ingersoll earned
a BS in Forestry and an MS in Wildland Resource Science from the University of
California, Berkeley. In 1985, Ingersoll was named to the first cohort of John Gardner
Fellows, serving in the Forest Service's national headquarters. After returning to
Berkeley to complete his master's degree, Ingersoll entered Federal service in 1987 as
a forester on the Ouachita National Forest in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Over thirty-four
years in the Forest Service, Ingersoll has been a land management planner, a district
ranger, a national program manager, a deputy forest supervisor, forest supervisor, and
deputy regional forester, gradually working up the civilian General Schedule to the
Senior Executive Service. From 2010 to 2018 he was Forest Supervisor on the Siuslaw
National Forest in Oregon. As Director of Job Corps, Ingersoll oversees twenty-four
Civilian Conservation Centers across the country, where 3500 young people have the
opportunity to change their lives through training, education, and leadership
development. Jerry and his wife Amelia met at Berkeley, have been married for
thirty-four years, nine moves, and three children--now grown and successful citizens
of their own.
Klyman, Kevin 2021-01-25
Kevin Klyman - Recordings
Kevin Klyman - Transcript
Creator: Klyman,
Kevin
Creator: Ramirez,
Marco
Abstract: Kevin Klyman, a graduate of UC
Berkeley and a 2019 Gardner Fellow, reflects on his fellowship year and experiences.
Klyman describes growing up in Evanston, Illinois, and how his interest in public
service and foreign relations led him to apply for the Gardner Fellowship. He
describes his fellowship placement at the United Nations Global Pulse in New York,
including a trip to Uganda. Klyman reflects on how both his fellowship year and his
personal life were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. He concludes by speaking about
the John Gardner Fellowship Association and how the fellowship year prepared him to
move forward in his professional life.
Lozano, Mayra 2021-01-21
Mayra Lozano - Recordings
Mayra Lozano - Transcript
Creator: Lozano, Mayra
Creator: Bimes, Terri
Abstract: Mayra Lozano
(John Gardner Fellow, Class of 2020) speaks about her immigration from Mexico to Los
Angeles, navigating the university as an immigrant, and the origins of her commitment
to public service. Additionally, Lozano discusses organizing around labor and
immigration during her undergraduate career at Berkeley and working with the
University of Illinois School of Public Health and Centro de Trabajadores Unidos. She
speaks about her fellowship placement at the Immigrant Defenders Law Center and its
Children's Representation Project and the Family Reunification Program, as well as her
mentors Joyce Noche and Yliana Johansen-Mendez. Lozano also discusses the difficulties
she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, how her fellowship placement has contributed
to her current policy work on the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
Committee, and the need to recruit in diverse places for the fellowship.
Embargo transcript and audio/video for 10 years (until January 21, 2031)
Podesta, Heather 2021-08-13
Heather Podesta - Recordings
Heather Podesta - Transcript
Creator: Podesta,
Heather
Creator: Moguel, David L.,
1965-
Abstract: Heather Miller Podesta (John
Gardner Fellow, Class of 1993) recalls being encouraged to apply to the John Gardner
Fellowship as a student at UC Berkeley, her interview, and her fellowship in the
office of Senator Bill Bradley, where she worked as a legislative fellow on NAFTA and
on an FAA reauthorization bill. She also describes her career after the fellowship,
which included working in a law firm on maritime and aviation issues, working for the
Air Transport Association as assistant general counsel during 9/11, and then returning
to Capitol Hill and eventually starting her own government relations firm.
Additionally, Podesta mentions being sexually harassed at one of her early jobs and
reflects on her support system throughout her career. Podesta credits her experiences
and success to the John Gardner Fellowship and talks about fundraising and fellowship
updates with interviewer David Moguel.
Sidebottom, Peter 2021-01-09
Peter Sidebottom - Recordings
Peter Sidebottom - Transcript
Creator: Sidebottom, Peter J.
Creator: Moguel, David L.,
1965-
Abstract: Peter Sidebottom (John Gardner
Fellow, Class of 1985) reflects on how his upbringing in rural California interested
him in public service and what it was like to be part of the inaugural class of John
Gardner Fellows. He describes his fellowship with Henry Cisneros, the former mayor of
San Antonio, and the different opportunities with which Cisneros provided him.
Sidebottom also discusses his time working at McKinsey, memories of John Gardner, the
importance of resilience, and today's politics and presidency.
Vargas, Carole Bialek 2021-08-17
Carole Vargas - Recordings
Carole Vargas - Transcript
Creator: Vargas, Carole Bialek
Creator: Yeung, Linda
Abstract: Carole Vargas (John Gardner
Fellows, Class of 1985) recalls being part of the first class of John Gardner Fellows,
including meeting notable individuals associated with the program, hearing how the
fellowship came about, and working at Independent Sector with mentors Virginia
Hodgkins and Sandra Gray. She also shares memories of and advice given to her by John
Gardner, her experience at the first fellows retreat at Asilomar, and why the John
Gardner Fellowship Association (JGFA) was formed. Vargas speaks about her career in
public education, being a public elementary school principal and the highs and lows
associated with her job, and the importance of reflection and following one's own
interests.
Interview with the Founders of the John Gardner Fellowship Association 2021-09-11
JGFA Founders - Recordings
JGFA Founders - Transcript
Creator: Noor, Waseem
Creator: Fox,
Sean
Creator: Welner,
Jon
Creator: Yeung, Linda
Abstract: Sean Fox, Waseem Noor, Jon
Welner, and Linda Yeung, founding members of the John Gardner Fellowship Association
(JGFA), discuss the formation of JGFA, the defining moment of John Gardner's passing,
and the individuals who were instrumental in the association's creation. The group
also reflects on the 2002 JGFA retreat at Asilomar, issues of fundraising and
governance, and the technological transformation of JGFA. In addition to talking about
the unity between Stanford and Berkeley through the fellowship, the group speaks about
the legacy of JGFA and the state of bipartisanship today, and shares memories of John
W. Gardner.