Philanthropic Strategy Leader & Economic Mobility Advocate; President & CEO of The James Irvine Foundation; Workforce Equity Expert

San Francisco, CA, USA
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Donald Howard Biography

Don Howard is the president and CEO of The James Irvine Foundation, where he has led a focus on advancing economic mobility for low-income workers across California. Under his leadership, the foundation has concentrated its grantmaking—totaling more than $100 million annually—on initiatives that support low-wage workers in accessing better jobs, fair wages, and affordable housing. Howard's strategic direction has positioned the Irvine Foundation as a leader in addressing income inequality and fostering systemic change within California's workforce landscape.

Prior to his current role, Howard served as executive vice president at the foundation, directing grantmaking efforts and shaping philanthropic strategy. His experience includes serving as a partner at The Bridgespan Group, where he led the San Francisco office and advised major nonprofits and foundations on organizational strategy. Earlier in his career, he provided strategic counsel to corporations at Booz Allen Hamilton and Scient Corporation. Howard's commitment to public service is reflected in his activism around HIV issues and his work as a volunteer adviser for small businesses in Poland through USAID.

A frequent speaker and writer on topics such as philanthropic strategy, nonprofit management, and social entrepreneurship, Howard is recognized for his thought leadership in the sector. He serves on several advisory councils, including the Public Policy Institute of California Leadership Council and the California Policy Lab Advisory Board. Howard holds a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering and an MBA from Stanford University, underscoring his analytical approach to social impact and his effectiveness as a public communicator and advocate for economic justice.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 08/18/2025.

Donald Howard Videos

CalMatters Ideas Festival - Workforce and The Economy - Intro

CalMatters Ideas Festival - Workforce and The Economy - Intro

Workforce & The Economy California's economy needs a diversity of trained workers and just as diverse are how programs besides a college degree...

The Maddy Report: The James Irvine Foundation: Closing the Valley's Opportunity Gap

The Maddy Report: The James Irvine Foundation: Closing the Valley's Opportunity Gap

Don Howard, CEO & President of The James Irvine Foundation, discusses philanthropy in the Central Valley, CA and how we can work together to close...

Don Howard, CEO of The James Irvine Foundation

Don Howard, CEO of The James Irvine Foundation

Interview with Don Howard, CEO of The James Irvine Foundation

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  • What topics does Donald Howard speak about?

    Donald Howard is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Civil Rights, DEI, Entrepreneurship, Executive Leadership, Finance, Future of Work, Futurism, Philanthropy, Social Activism, Social Entrepreneurship, Social Justice
  • Where does Donald Howard travel from?

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Donald Howard is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Donald Howard for your event is available upon request. Donald Howard generally travels from San Francisco, CA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Erika Seth Davies, Artis Stevens, David Steinberg, Steve Schwab and Jeff Green. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Donald Howard for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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