Russell Mawby
Russell G. Mawby, Ph.D. has earned a global reputation as a visionary leader in philanthropy. He led the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for 25 years, during which he was credited for creativity in programming by providing opportunities for youth and leadership in the field.
Early life and philanthropy
Russell Mawby was born in Kent County, Michigan in 1928 and grew up on a fruit farm run by his parents. They, along with his upbringing, had a significant influence on his early childhood and his involvement in youth programs and philanthropic work throughout his life. He participated in Boy Scouts of America and 4-H programs, and was influenced by agricultural programs through his father's work in fruit farming.
Education and Career
Along with being involvement in youth programs, Mawby's parents also stressed the importance of education. He attended Michigan State University and graduated with a baccalaureate degree in horticulture. In 1951 Mawby completed his Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University, and in 1959 he received his Doctorate, also in Agricultural Economics, from Michigan State University.
While attending Michigan State University Mawby became involved with different school programs, mainly dealing with agriculture. After finishing a Doctorate degree, he was offered a job with the W. K. Kellogg Foundation as the Director of Agriculture. Through all of his hard work and dedication, he became the President and Chief Executive Officer of the W. K. Kellogg Foundation in 1970, and with his help the Foundation supported many different philanthropic programs throughout the United States, Europe and Latin America. Mawby is currently retired and still involved with many philanthropic, agricultural and youth programs.[1]
Leadership positions
- Director of the Division of Agriculture- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, December 1964- August 1967
- Vice President of Programs- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, January 1966- December 1967
- Member of the Board of Trustees- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, December 1967- December 2000
- Honorary Trustee- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, December 2000- December 2003, January 2007- Present
- Vice President- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, December 1967- May 1970
- President and Chief Executive Officer- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, May 1970- August 1982
- President and Chief Executive Officer- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation August 1982- July 1995
- Chairman Emeritus- The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, August 1995- Present
Publications
Russell Mawby, along with James Richmond, authored a book detailing his life throughout his childhood into his retirement on all of his philanthropic work. Russell G. Mawby: Recollections of a Man Whose Epitaph Would Say 'He Cared' was written in 2006.