Comprehensive List of Philanthropic Activities
SPEECHES / INTERVIEWS / NEWS
THE CARLYLE GROUP
ABOUT DAVID
FILTER
Aspen Institute
EDUCATION / PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Aspen Institute is an educational and policy studies organization based in Washington, D.C.
David has provided support to Aspen's China Fellows Program.
Resnick Aspen Action Forum: Reflections on the 13th Amendment — Then and Now
Aspen Ideas Festival: Videos/Audio of David M. Rubenstein
Brookings Institution
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. whose mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.
David is co-chair of the Brookings Board of Trustees.
Celebrating the Brookings Centenary: The Trustees
Council on Foreign Relations
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is an independent, nonpartisan membership organization, think tank, and publisher dedicated to being a resource for its members, government officials, business executives, journalists, educators and students, civic and religious leaders, and other interested citizens in order to help them better understand the world and the foreign policy choices facing the United States and other countries.
David is Vice Chairman of CFR Board of Directors.
David M. Rubenstein Chair in Energy and the Environment
Interview: Grasping 'Radical' Economic Change
DC Public School Student Scholarships through Economic Club of Washington, D.C.
EDUCATION
David and the Economic Club have presented more than 100 graduating seniors from D.C. schools with scholarships, helping to make it possible for them to pursue higher education opportunities.
David M. Rubenstein/Economic Club of Washington, D.C. Scholarship Program
The Economic Club Education Initiatives
DC Public Schools Educator Awards
EDUCATION
The Rubenstein Awards for Highly Effective Educators honors excellent teachers, school leaders and support staff and aides with an award of $5,000.
The Excellence in Teaching Awards recognize the outstanding achievement and dedication of seven DCPS teachers with a $10,000 prize.
Awards are funded by David, and winners are recognized at the annual Standing Ovation for DC Public Schools at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The Rubenstein Awards for Highly Effective Educators
Duke Athletics
EDUCATION
Duke Athletics is the athletic division of Duke University.
In 2012, David made a donation to support the priorities of Duke Athletics outlined in Duke Forward, the $3.25 billion university-wide fundraising campaign.
Duke University Blue Devils | Official Athletics Site — GoDuke.com
David Rubenstein Gives $10 Million to Duke Athletics
Duke University
EDUCATION
David is a 1970 magna cum laude graduate of Duke University and a tireless advocate for Duke students, faculty and alumni. David was elected to the Duke University Board of Trustees in 2005, and has served as Chair since 2013. His contributions to the university have helped improve campus life through numerous renovation and construction projects at the facilities.
David Rubenstein Reflects on Service to Duke, Plans for the Future
Duke University Arts Center
EDUCATION
David made a contribution to help fund the construction of Duke’s new Arts Center. The 71,000-square-foot facility, which is expected to be completed by summer 2017, is the largest single arts investment Duke has ever made. The gift helps create and sustain programs, activities and performances across the range of performing and visual arts at Duke.
Coming Soon: The Duke Arts Center
Duke Jewish Life
EDUCATION
Jewish Life at Duke serves as home away from home for students, priding itself on providing a welcoming community for students to explore their identity, celebrate their culture, and engage with Judaism in a real and tangible way.
David has donated to Jewish Life at Duke to expand programming, fund building renovations and enhance the college experience for Jewish students.
Jewish Life at Duke | Duke Student Affairs
Rubenstein Gift to Enhance Jewish Life at Duke
Duke University Libraries
EDUCATION
In 2011, David made a gift to Perkins Library allowing renovations that transformed the library into a state-of-the-art research facility. In recognition of his gift, the special collections library was renamed the David M. Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
David M. Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library
Duke Libraries Receive $13.6 Million Rubenstein Gift
Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy
EDUCATION
The Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University educates tomorrow's leaders and improves the quality of public policymaking through teaching, research, professional training, and policy and community engagement.
In 2013, David made a gift that provides graduate fellowships, undergraduate internships and establishes a fund to increase the school’s engagement with public policy.
Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy
David Rubenstein Supports Duke’s Sanford School of Public Policy
Duke Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative
EDUCATION
In 2012, David donated funds to help catalyze Duke’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative, which creates courses and opportunities for students interested in social entrepreneurship.
Duke Innovation & Entrepreneurship Initiative
Rubenstein Gives to Duke’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative
Economic Club of Washington, D.C.
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Economic Club of Washington, D.C. offers a forum for prominent business and government leaders to express their views on the most important economic issues.
In partnership with the Economic Club of Washington, D.C., in 2008 David initiated and funded the David M. Rubenstein/Economic Club of Washington, D.C. Scholarship Program. Since then, David and the Economic Club have presented more than 100 graduating seniors from DC public and charter schools with scholarships, helping them to pursue higher education opportunities.
Video interviews conducted by Mr. Rubenstein
The Economic Club Education Initiatives
The David M. Rubenstein Scholarship Program
Harvard Business School
EDUCATION
Harvard Business School is the graduate business school of Harvard University.
In 2008, David's gift established the David M. Rubenstein Fund, which supports students enrolled in the Harvard Kennedy School/Harvard Business School Joint Degree Program. David continues to support this scholarship program.
David M. Rubenstein Fellowship
Institute for Advanced Study
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Institute for Advanced Study is one of the world’s leading centers for curiosity-driven basic research. Since 1930, it has served as a model for protecting and promoting independent inquiry, prompting the establishment of similar institutes around the world, and underscoring the importance of academic freedom worldwide.
David is a Trustee of the Institute. His donation provided funds for the construction of the new Rubenstein Commons.
David Rubenstein Supports New Building at the Institute for Advanced Study
James Madison's Montpelier
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Montpelier was the plantation house of the prominent Madison family of Virginia, including James Madison, fourth President of the United States.
David's donation funded reconstruction, refurnishing and archaeology at the plantation.
David Rubenstein Gives to Montpelier, Home of James Madison
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
ARTS & CULTURE
The Kennedy Center is the nation’s busiest performing arts facility and annually hosts more than 2,000 performances for audiences totaling nearly two million. The Center presents performances of music, dance, and theater; supports artists in the creation of new work; and serves the nation as a leader in arts education.
David is Chairman of the Board of Trustees at The Kennedy Center and has contributed funds to support The Kennedy Center's Expansion Project.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The Kennedy Center Expansion Project
John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University
EDUCATION
The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is a public policy and public administration school of Harvard University.
In 2004, David's donation established a fund for excellence, which includes a loan forgiveness program as well as funding a range of initiatives. In 2008, another gift established the David M. Rubenstein Fund, which supports students enrolled in the Harvard Kennedy School/Harvard Business School Joint Degree Program. In 2016, David gave additional funds to support the reconstruction of the school's campus.
Harvard Kennedy School — Harvard University
David M. Rubenstein Fund Created to Support Harvard Kennedy School Students
Johns Hopkins David M. Rubenstein Child Health Building
HEALTH
The David M. Rubenstein Child Health Building at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center houses many of the original pediatric specialty clinics that Hopkins opened nearly a century ago. These include the Harriet Lane Clinic, which provides primary care to more than 7,500 community children and adolescents a year. Patient and family services include legal assistance, psychiatric evaluations, weight management sessions and health education. The clinic has been in operation for more than 100 years at Johns Hopkins.
The pediatric outpatient building was named for Johns Hopkins University trustee David M. Rubenstein and opened in July 2006.
David M. Rubenstein Child Health Building
Gift to Johns Hopkins Children's Center
Johns Hopkins Department of Otolaryngology
HEALTH
In 2015, David Rubenstein, a Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine trustee, donated funds to the John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery to create a new hearing center focused on restoring functional hearing loss.
The patient care clinical space for the otology clinic at the Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center will be renamed the David M. Rubenstein Hearing Center. The center will include the Division of Otology and Neurotology, the Division of Audiology, and the Listening Center. The center will integrate clinical care and research to help restore functional hearing in people with congenital and acquired hearing loss.
Johns Hopkins Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery
Gift from David Rubenstein Creates Center to Help Restore Hearing Loss
Junior Achievement Essay Competition
EDUCATION
The Junior Achievement® Essay Competition was founded in 2008 and is sponsored by David. Each year, high school students in Greater Washington are invited to write an essay and compete for college scholarships. In 2016 the essay topic was: Who was a greater entrepreneur — George Washington or Dr. Dre?
Junior Achievement Essay Competition
Library of Congress—Abel Buell’s Map of the United States, 1784
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Abel Buell’s New and Correct Map of the United States of North America, 1784, is the first map of the newly independent United States compiled, printed and published in America by an American.
David purchased the map in 2010 and placed it at the Library of Congress so that it can be both publicly displayed and, by means of digital technology, made available for research purposes.
Mapping a New Nation: Abel Buell’s Map of the United States, 1784
Library of Congress: Geography & Map Reading Room
Library of Congress—Bay Psalm Book, 1640
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Whole Booke of Psalmes Faithfully Translated into English Metre, printed in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1640, is the first book printed in what is now the United States.
David's book, which he purchased in 2013, is one of six that includes the original title page. The book is on display at the David Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Duke University.
Library of Congress Online Exhibition
Library of Congress Gazette: First Among Many
First Among Many: The Bay Psalm Book and Early Moments in American Printing
Library of Congress—Literacy Awards
EDUCATION
Through a gift from David, the Library of Congress Literacy Awards Program honors organizations that have made outstanding contributions to increasing literacy in the United States or abroad.
Library of Congress Literacy Awards
Library of Congress—National Book Festival
EDUCATION
The Library of Congress National Book Festival is an annual literary event that brings together best-selling authors and thousands of book fans for author talks, panel discussions, book signings and other activities.
Since 2010, David, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the National Book Festival Board, has been the lead benefactor of the festival and in 2013 pledged funding for the event for five more years.
Library of Congress National Book Festival
David Rubenstein at the 2016 National Book Festival
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
ARTS & CULTURE
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a 16.3-acre complex of buildings in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of the borough of Manhattan in New York City. It is home of The Metropolitan Opera, The New York City Ballet, The New York Philharmonic Orchestra, among others.
In 2009, David made a contribution to Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts for its $1.2 billion redevelopment project. In 2015, David donated additional funds to further support the redevelopment program.
David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center
Mount Vernon
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Mount Vernon was the plantation house of George Washington, first President of the United States and his wife, Martha Washington.
In 2013, David made a gift to support the study of Washington; to fund fellowships for students to study Washington; and to support Mount Vernon's acquisition program.
“Birthday Gift” from David Rubenstein to Support Library
National Archives—David M. Rubenstein Gallery
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The National Archives is home to the David M. Rubenstein Gallery. Its centerpiece is the 1297 Magna Carta, on loan to the National Archives from David. Records of Rights is the gallery’s permanent exhibition that explores the documents and themes of the ongoing struggles of Americans to define, attain and protect their rights. The exhibit showcases the drive for civil rights for African Americans, women and immigrants—chronicling the past and current generations whose efforts to secure equality under the law have shaped the country we live in today.
National Archives | David M. Rubenstein Gallery
National Archives to Open New David M. Rubenstein Gallery
National Archives—Magna Carta, 1297
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The 1297 Magna Carta was written by a group of 13th century barons to protect their rights and property against a tyrannical king. American colonists believed they were entitled to the same rights as Englishmen, rights guaranteed in Magna Carta, which were later embedded into the Constitution and Bill of Rights.
David purchased Magna Carta in 2007, one of only four surviving originals and the only one that’s privately owned, which is on display in the David M. Rubenstein Gallery at the National Archives Museum.
National Archives | The Magna Carta
So How Do You Buy the Magna Carta? David Rubenstein Explains
National Archives—Stone Engravings of the Declaration of Independence, 1823
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Stone Engravings of the Declaration of Independence are precise, copperplate facsimiles of the original, created by engraver William J. Stone and commissioned in 1820 by then Secretary of State John Quincy Adams.
Of the 50 surviving Stone copies, David owns four. They are on display at the National Archives, National Constitution Center, State Department and New York Historical Society. He also donated reproductions of the document to every U.S. Embassy in the world and donated an 1833 second edition of the document to the Nantucket Historical Association.
National Archives | Finding the Stones
National Gallery of Art
ARTS & CULTURE
The National Gallery of Art serves the United States of America in a national role by preserving, collecting, exhibiting, and fostering the understanding of works of art at the highest possible museum and scholarly standards.
Mr. Rubenstein serves as a General Trustee on the Gallery's Board of Trustees.
National Gallery of Art Announces $30 Million Renovation to East Building
National Park Service—Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Robert E. Lee Memorial, located on the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, honors Lee's military and public leadership in pre- and post-Civil War America.
David donated funds to rehabilitate the house, grounds and slave quarters.
National Park Service | Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
Rubenstein Gift Helps Restore Arlington House
National Park Service—Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Sewall-Belmont House and Museum, designated in 2016 as the Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument, is a historic house and museum of the U.S. women's suffrage and equal rights movements.
David made a donation to fund critical repairs to and restoration of the house.
Leading the March for Women's Equality
David Rubenstein Gift Helps Restore Belmont-Paul National Monument
National Park Service—Lincoln Memorial
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Lincoln Memorial is an American national memorial built to honor the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. David’s donation will help renovate the memorial, including restoring the site’s murals, dramatically expanding exhibition space and allowing visitors to marvel at its architectural foundation and pilings.
National Park Service | Lincoln Memorial
David Rubenstein Donates to the NPF to Restore the Lincoln Memorial
National Park Service—U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima)
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Based on the iconic image of the second flag-raising on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial is dedicated to “the Marine dead of all wars and their comrades of other services who fell fighting beside them.”
David donated funds to refurbish the memorial in honor of his father.
National Park Service | Marine Corps War Memorial
David Rubenstein Donates to Restore Iwo Jima Memorial
National Park Service—Washington Monument
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Washington Monument is an American national monument built to commemorate the first President of the United States, George Washington.
David's donation helped repair the monument after it was damaged during an earthquake in 2011.
National Park Service | Washington Monument
Washington Monument Restoration—Repairing an American icon
Pancreatic Cancer Research at Memorial Sloan Kettering
HEALTH
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is a cancer treatment and research institution in New York City founded in 1884.
In 2012, David's donation launched the David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, which brings together Memorial Sloan Kettering's physicians and scientists in an intensive program designed to spearhead crucial progress in understanding and treatment. In 2015, David gave additional funds to support this program.
David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research
David M. Rubenstein Gift Launches Pancreatic Cancer Research Center at MSK
Smithsonian—13th Amendment, 1865
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Signed by President Abraham Lincoln, the 13th Amendment officially abolished slavery in 1865.
David is loaning the 13th Amendment to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which will display the document in the museum’s History Galleries.
Smithsonian Announces David Rubenstein Gift to African-American Museum
Smithsonian—American Art Museum Renwick Gallery
ARTS & CULTURE
The Renwick Gallery is home to the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection of contemporary craft and decorative art, one of the finest and most extensive collections of its kind. The museum’s home is a National Historic Landmark, the first built expressly as an art museum in the United States, and is named in honor of its architect, James Renwick, Jr. It has been a branch of the Smithsonian since 1972.
David was the lead donor for the gallery's renovation.
Smithsonian—Emancipation Proclamation, 1863
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Signed by President Abraham Lincoln in January 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation declared “that all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states “are, and henceforward shall be free.” David has two copies of the proclamation, which is one of 48 "souvenier" copies signed by Lincoln, only about half of those have survived.
David has loaned one of the copies to The National Museum of African American History and Culture. The other will be loaned to the National Archives.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture
Rubenstein Buys a Copy of the Emancipation Proclamation
Smithsonian—National Museum of African American History and Culture
ARTS & CULTURE
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the Museum has collected more than 36,000 artifacts and nearly 100,000 individuals have become charter members.
David made a donation to the museum and is one of the Founding Donors.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Smithsonian Donor David Rubenstein Gives to African American Museum
Smithsonian—National Zoo, Elephants
ARTS & CULTURE
The National Zoo's Elephant Trails exhibit was designed in keeping with the best practices for Asian-elephant management. It includes space for socializing, training and playing while providing the elephant staff safe access to the animals. Altogether, the facility can house eight to 10 adult elephants and their young.
David’s contribution enabled the National Zoo to bring three female Asian elephants to Washington, expanding the Zoo's existing herd to six.
Asian Elephants — National Zoo — Smithsonian
National Zoo Brings Elephants to Washington through Rubenstein Contribution
Smithsonian—National Zoo, Giant Pandas
ARTS & CULTURE
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is a leader in giant panda conservation. Since 1972, the Zoo’s animal care staff and scientists have studied giant panda biology, behavior, breeding, reproduction and disease.
The David M. Rubenstein Family Giant Panda Habitat is home to four giant pandas: Tian Tian (adult male), Mei Xiang (adult female), Bao Bao (juvenile female), and a male cub named Bei Bei.
Giant Pandas — National Zoo — Smithsonian
Giant Panda Cam at the National Zoo
Smithsonian's National Zoo Receives Gift to Fund Giant Panda Program
Target ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease)
HEALTH
Target ALS is a privately funded consortium of researchers from academic and biotech/pharma laboratories entirely focused on finding a treatment for patients living with ALS. The association funds research consortia, Springboard Fellowships for emerging research leaders, and nationwide core facilities.
David Rubenstein is one of the founding donors for Target ALS research.
Dan Doctoroff, David Rubenstein, and Bloomberg Philanthropies Unveil Target ALS
Thomas Jefferson's Monticello
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Monticello was the primary plantation house of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.
David donated funds to help restore the upper floors of the Monticello house and reconstruct Mulberry Row, the adjacent plantation community where slaves and workers lived.
Monticello to Receive Gift for Restoration Efforts
Tsinghua (Beijing)
EDUCATION
Tsinghua University is a research university located in Beijing, China.
David served as chair of the Tsinghua School of Economics and Management from 2013–2016. He also gave funds for an endowed professorship at the school.
Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management
YU Zhengsheng meets with members of Tsinghua SEM Advisory Board
University of Chicago Law School
EDUCATION
The University of Chicago Law School is the graduate school of law at the University of Chicago.
In 2010, David's donation created the David M. Rubenstein Scholars Program, which provides 60 entering students with full-tuition scholarships covering all three years of their studies. Based on the success of the program, in 2013 he donated additional support to fund the program for three more years. In 2016, David pledged to fund the program for three additional years.
David M. Rubenstein Scholars Program
David Rubenstein Makes Gift for Student Scholarships
WETA
ARTS & CULTURE
Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation’s capital and serves the community with educational, cultural, news and public affairs programs and services.
In 2014, David established The David M. Rubenstein Fund at WETA, a fund to create programming that celebrates American culture, history and public affairs.
The David M. Rubenstein Fund at WETA
White House Historical Association
ARTS & CULTURE
The White House Historical Association is a private, non-profit organization with a mission to enhance the public's understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the White House.
In 2011, David donated funds to support the scholarship efforts of the association. In 2014, David donated additional support for the renovation and upkeep of the White House Visitor Center.
David M. Rubenstein's Gift to the White House Historical Association
Wolf Trap Foundation
ARTS & CULTURE
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is a majestic natural setting for over 100 performances across all genres every summer. Home to the architecturally stunning Filene Center and the charmingly intimate Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, the 117-acre Park offers many amenities and recreational opportunities. Wolf Trap Foundation is the official partner to the National Park Service in providing concert and performance programming within the Park.
David provided general financial support to Wolf Trap.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
ARTS & CULTURE
The Kennedy Center is the nation’s busiest performing arts facility and annually hosts more than 2,000 performances for audiences totaling nearly two million. The Center presents performances of music, dance, and theater; supports artists in the creation of new work; and serves the nation as a leader in arts education.
David is Chairman of the Board of Trustees at The Kennedy Center and has contributed funds to support The Kennedy Center's Expansion Project.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The Kennedy Center Expansion Project
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
ARTS & CULTURE
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a 16.3-acre complex of buildings in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of the borough of Manhattan in New York City. It is home of The Metropolitan Opera, The New York City Ballet, The New York Philharmonic Orchestra, among others.
In 2009, David made a contribution to Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts for its $1.2 billion redevelopment project. In 2015, David donated additional funds to further support the redevelopment program.
David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center
National Gallery of Art
ARTS & CULTURE
The National Gallery of Art serves the United States of America in a national role by preserving, collecting, exhibiting, and fostering the understanding of works of art at the highest possible museum and scholarly standards.
Mr. Rubenstein serves as a General Trustee on the Gallery's Board of Trustees.
National Gallery of Art Announces $30 Million Renovation to East Building
Smithsonian—American Art Museum Renwick Gallery
ARTS & CULTURE
The Renwick Gallery is home to the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection of contemporary craft and decorative art, one of the finest and most extensive collections of its kind. The museum’s home is a National Historic Landmark, the first built expressly as an art museum in the United States, and is named in honor of its architect, James Renwick, Jr. It has been a branch of the Smithsonian since 1972.
David was the lead donor for the gallery's renovation.
Smithsonian—National Museum of African American History and Culture
ARTS & CULTURE
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the Museum has collected more than 36,000 artifacts and nearly 100,000 individuals have become charter members.
David made a donation to the museum and is one of the Founding Donors.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Smithsonian Donor David Rubenstein Gives to African American Museum
Smithsonian—National Zoo, Elephants
ARTS & CULTURE
The National Zoo's Elephant Trails exhibit was designed in keeping with the best practices for Asian-elephant management. It includes space for socializing, training and playing while providing the elephant staff safe access to the animals. Altogether, the facility can house eight to 10 adult elephants and their young.
David’s contribution enabled the National Zoo to bring three female Asian elephants to Washington, expanding the Zoo's existing herd to six.
Asian Elephants — National Zoo — Smithsonian
National Zoo Brings Elephants to Washington through Rubenstein Contribution
Smithsonian—National Zoo, Giant Pandas
ARTS & CULTURE
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is a leader in giant panda conservation. Since 1972, the Zoo’s animal care staff and scientists have studied giant panda biology, behavior, breeding, reproduction and disease.
The David M. Rubenstein Family Giant Panda Habitat is home to four giant pandas: Tian Tian (adult male), Mei Xiang (adult female), Bao Bao (juvenile female), and a male cub named Bei Bei.
Giant Pandas — National Zoo — Smithsonian
Giant Panda Cam at the National Zoo
Smithsonian's National Zoo Receives Gift to Fund Giant Panda Program
WETA
ARTS & CULTURE
Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation’s capital and serves the community with educational, cultural, news and public affairs programs and services.
In 2014, David established The David M. Rubenstein Fund at WETA, a fund to create programming that celebrates American culture, history and public affairs.
The David M. Rubenstein Fund at WETA
White House Historical Association
ARTS & CULTURE
The White House Historical Association is a private, non-profit organization with a mission to enhance the public's understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the White House.
In 2011, David donated funds to support the scholarship efforts of the association. In 2014, David donated additional support for the renovation and upkeep of the White House Visitor Center.
David M. Rubenstein's Gift to the White House Historical Association
Wolf Trap Foundation
ARTS & CULTURE
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is a majestic natural setting for over 100 performances across all genres every summer. Home to the architecturally stunning Filene Center and the charmingly intimate Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, the 117-acre Park offers many amenities and recreational opportunities. Wolf Trap Foundation is the official partner to the National Park Service in providing concert and performance programming within the Park.
David provided general financial support to Wolf Trap.
Aspen Institute
EDUCATION / PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Aspen Institute is an educational and policy studies organization based in Washington, D.C.
David has provided support to Aspen's China Fellows Program.
Resnick Aspen Action Forum: Reflections on the 13th Amendment — Then and Now
Aspen Ideas Festival: Videos/Audio of David M. Rubenstein
DC Public School Student Scholarships through Economic Club of Washington, D.C.
EDUCATION
David and the Economic Club have presented more than 100 graduating seniors from D.C. schools with scholarships, helping to make it possible for them to pursue higher education opportunities.
David M. Rubenstein/Economic Club of Washington, D.C. Scholarship Program
The Economic Club Education Initiatives
DC Public Schools Educator Awards
EDUCATION
The Rubenstein Awards for Highly Effective Educators honors excellent teachers, school leaders and support staff and aides with an award of $5,000.
The Excellence in Teaching Awards recognize the outstanding achievement and dedication of seven DCPS teachers with a $10,000 prize.
Awards are funded by David, and winners are recognized at the annual Standing Ovation for DC Public Schools at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The Rubenstein Awards for Highly Effective Educators
Duke Athletics
EDUCATION
Duke Athletics is the athletic division of Duke University.
In 2012, David made a donation to support the priorities of Duke Athletics outlined in Duke Forward, the $3.25 billion university-wide fundraising campaign.
Duke University Blue Devils | Official Athletics Site — GoDuke.com
David Rubenstein Gives $10 Million to Duke Athletics
Duke Jewish Life
EDUCATION
Jewish Life at Duke serves as home away from home for students, priding itself on providing a welcoming community for students to explore their identity, celebrate their culture, and engage with Judaism in a real and tangible way.
David has donated to Jewish Life at Duke to expand programming, fund building renovations and enhance the college experience for Jewish students.
Jewish Life at Duke | Duke Student Affairs
Rubenstein Gift to Enhance Jewish Life at Duke
Duke University
EDUCATION
David is a 1970 magna cum laude graduate of Duke University and a tireless advocate for Duke students, faculty and alumni. David was elected to the Duke University Board of Trustees in 2005, and has served as Chair since 2013. His contributions to the university have helped improve campus life through numerous renovation and construction projects at the facilities.
David Rubenstein Reflects on Service to Duke, Plans for the Future
Duke University Arts Center
EDUCATION
David made a contribution to help fund the construction of Duke’s new Arts Center. The 71,000-square-foot facility, which is expected to be completed by summer 2017, is the largest single arts investment Duke has ever made. The gift helps create and sustain programs, activities and performances across the range of performing and visual arts at Duke.
Coming Soon: The Duke Arts Center
Duke University Libraries
EDUCATION
In 2011, David made a gift to Perkins Library allowing renovations that transformed the library into a state-of-the-art research facility. In recognition of his gift, the special collections library was renamed the David M. Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
David M. Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library
Duke Libraries Receive $13.6 Million Rubenstein Gift
Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy
EDUCATION
The Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University educates tomorrow's leaders and improves the quality of public policymaking through teaching, research, professional training, and policy and community engagement.
In 2013, David made a gift that provides graduate fellowships, undergraduate internships and establishes a fund to increase the school’s engagement with public policy.
Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy
David Rubenstein Supports Duke’s Sanford School of Public Policy
Duke Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative
EDUCATION
In 2012, David donated funds to help catalyze Duke’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative, which creates courses and opportunities for students interested in social entrepreneurship.
Duke Innovation & Entrepreneurship Initiative
Rubenstein Gives to Duke’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative
Harvard Business School
EDUCATION
Harvard Business School is the graduate business school of Harvard University.
In 2008, David's gift established the David M. Rubenstein Fund, which supports students enrolled in the Harvard Kennedy School/Harvard Business School Joint Degree Program. David continues to support this scholarship program.
David M. Rubenstein Fellowship
John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University
EDUCATION
The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is a public policy and public administration school of Harvard University.
In 2004, David's donation established a fund for excellence, which includes a loan forgiveness program as well as funding a range of initiatives. In 2008, another gift established the David M. Rubenstein Fund, which supports students enrolled in the Harvard Kennedy School/Harvard Business School Joint Degree Program. In 2016, David gave additional funds to support the reconstruction of the school's campus.
Harvard Kennedy School — Harvard University
David M. Rubenstein Fund Created to Support Harvard Kennedy School Students
Junior Achievement Essay Competition
EDUCATION
The Junior Achievement® Essay Competition was founded in 2008 and is sponsored by David. Each year, high school students in Greater Washington are invited to write an essay and compete for college scholarships. In 2016 the essay topic was: Who was a greater entrepreneur — George Washington or Dr. Dre?
Junior Achievement Essay Competition
Library of Congress—Literacy Awards
EDUCATION
Through a gift from David, the Library of Congress Literacy Awards Program honors organizations that have made outstanding contributions to increasing literacy in the United States or abroad.
Library of Congress Literacy Awards
Library of Congress—National Book Festival
EDUCATION
The Library of Congress National Book Festival is an annual literary event that brings together best-selling authors and thousands of book fans for author talks, panel discussions, book signings and other activities.
Since 2010, David, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the National Book Festival Board, has been the lead benefactor of the festival and in 2013 pledged funding for the event for five more years.
Library of Congress National Book Festival
David Rubenstein at the 2016 National Book Festival
Tsinghua (Beijing)
EDUCATION
Tsinghua University is a research university located in Beijing, China.
David served as chair of the Tsinghua School of Economics and Management from 2013–2016. He also gave funds for an endowed professorship at the school.
Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management
YU Zhengsheng meets with members of Tsinghua SEM Advisory Board
University of Chicago Law School
EDUCATION
The University of Chicago Law School is the graduate school of law at the University of Chicago.
In 2010, David's donation created the David M. Rubenstein Scholars Program, which provides 60 entering students with full-tuition scholarships covering all three years of their studies. Based on the success of the program, in 2013 he donated additional support to fund the program for three more years. In 2016, David pledged to fund the program for three additional years.
David M. Rubenstein Scholars Program
David Rubenstein Makes Gift for Student Scholarships
Johns Hopkins David M. Rubenstein Child Health Building
HEALTH
The David M. Rubenstein Child Health Building at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center houses many of the original pediatric specialty clinics that Hopkins opened nearly a century ago. These include the Harriet Lane Clinic, which provides primary care to more than 7,500 community children and adolescents a year. Patient and family services include legal assistance, psychiatric evaluations, weight management sessions and health education. The clinic has been in operation for more than 100 years at Johns Hopkins.
The pediatric outpatient building was named for Johns Hopkins University trustee David M. Rubenstein and opened in July 2006.
David M. Rubenstein Child Health Building
Gift to Johns Hopkins Children's Center
Johns Hopkins Department of Otolaryngology
HEALTH
In 2015, David Rubenstein, a Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine trustee, donated funds to the John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery to create a new hearing center focused on restoring functional hearing loss.
The patient care clinical space for the otology clinic at the Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center will be renamed the David M. Rubenstein Hearing Center. The center will include the Division of Otology and Neurotology, the Division of Audiology, and the Listening Center. The center will integrate clinical care and research to help restore functional hearing in people with congenital and acquired hearing loss.
Johns Hopkins Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery
Gift from David Rubenstein Creates Center to Help Restore Hearing Loss
Pancreatic Cancer Research at Memorial Sloan Kettering
HEALTH
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is a cancer treatment and research institution in New York City founded in 1884.
In 2012, David's donation launched the David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, which brings together Memorial Sloan Kettering's physicians and scientists in an intensive program designed to spearhead crucial progress in understanding and treatment. In 2015, David gave additional funds to support this program.
David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research
David M. Rubenstein Gift Launches Pancreatic Cancer Research Center at MSK
Target ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease)
HEALTH
Target ALS is a privately funded consortium of researchers from academic and biotech/pharma laboratories entirely focused on finding a treatment for patients living with ALS. The association funds research consortia, Springboard Fellowships for emerging research leaders, and nationwide core facilities.
David Rubenstein is one of the founding donors for Target ALS research.
Dan Doctoroff, David Rubenstein, and Bloomberg Philanthropies Unveil Target ALS
Library of Congress—Abel Buell’s Map of the United States, 1784
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Abel Buell’s New and Correct Map of the United States of North America, 1784, is the first map of the newly independent United States compiled, printed and published in America by an American.
David purchased the map in 2010 and placed it at the Library of Congress so that it can be both publicly displayed and, by means of digital technology, made available for research purposes.
Mapping a New Nation: Abel Buell’s Map of the United States, 1784
Library of Congress: Geography & Map Reading Room
Library of Congress—Bay Psalm Book, 1640
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Whole Booke of Psalmes Faithfully Translated into English Metre, printed in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1640, is the first book printed in what is now the United States.
David's book, which he purchased in 2013, is one of six that includes the original title page. The book is on display at the David Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Duke University.
Library of Congress Online Exhibition
Library of Congress Gazette: First Among Many
First Among Many: The Bay Psalm Book and Early Moments in American Printing
National Archives—Magna Carta, 1297
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The 1297 Magna Carta was written by a group of 13th century barons to protect their rights and property against a tyrannical king. American colonists believed they were entitled to the same rights as Englishmen, rights guaranteed in Magna Carta, which were later embedded into the Constitution and Bill of Rights.
David purchased Magna Carta in 2007, one of only four surviving originals and the only one that’s privately owned, which is on display in the David M. Rubenstein Gallery at the National Archives Museum.
National Archives | The Magna Carta
So How Do You Buy the Magna Carta? David Rubenstein Explains
National Archives—Stone Engravings of the Declaration of Independence, 1823
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Stone Engravings of the Declaration of Independence are precise, copperplate facsimiles of the original, created by engraver William J. Stone and commissioned in 1820 by then Secretary of State John Quincy Adams.
Of the 50 surviving Stone copies, David owns four. They are on display at the National Archives, National Constitution Center, State Department and New York Historical Society. He also donated reproductions of the document to every U.S. Embassy in the world and donated an 1833 second edition of the document to the Nantucket Historical Association.
National Archives | Finding the Stones
Smithsonian—13th Amendment, 1865
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Signed by President Abraham Lincoln, the 13th Amendment officially abolished slavery in 1865.
David is loaning the 13th Amendment to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which will display the document in the museum’s History Galleries.
Smithsonian Announces David Rubenstein Gift to African-American Museum
Smithsonian—Emancipation Proclamation, 1863
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Signed by President Abraham Lincoln in January 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation declared “that all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states “are, and henceforward shall be free.” David has two copies of the proclamation, which is one of 48 "souvenier" copies signed by Lincoln, only about half of those have survived.
David has loaned one of the copies to The National Museum of African American History and Culture. The other will be loaned to the National Archives.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture
Rubenstein Buys a Copy of the Emancipation Proclamation
James Madison's Montpelier
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Montpelier was the plantation house of the prominent Madison family of Virginia, including James Madison, fourth President of the United States.
David's donation funded reconstruction, refurnishing and archaeology at the plantation.
David Rubenstein Gives $10 Million to Montpelier, Home of James Madison
Library of Congress—Abel Buell’s Map of the United States, 1784
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Abel Buell’s New and Correct Map of the United States of North America, 1784, is the first map of the newly independent United States compiled, printed and published in America by an American.
David purchased the map in 2010 and placed it at the Library of Congress so that it can be both publicly displayed and, by means of digital technology, made available for research purposes.
Mapping a New Nation: Abel Buell’s Map of the United States, 1784
Library of Congress: Geography & Map Reading Room
Library of Congress—Bay Psalm Book, 1640
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Whole Booke of Psalmes Faithfully Translated into English Metre, printed in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1640, is the first book printed in what is now the United States.
David's book, which he purchased in 2013, is one of six that includes the original title page. The book is on display at the David Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Duke University.
Library of Congress Online Exhibition
Library of Congress Gazette: First Among Many
First Among Many: The Bay Psalm Book and Early Moments in American Printing
Mount Vernon
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Mount Vernon was the plantation house of George Washington, first President of the United States and his wife, Martha Washington.
In 2013, David made a gift to support the study of Washington; to fund fellowships for students to study Washington; and to support Mount Vernon's acquisition program.
“Birthday Gift” from David Rubenstein to Support Library
National Archives—David M. Rubenstein Gallery
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The National Archives is home to the David M. Rubenstein Gallery. Its centerpiece is the 1297 Magna Carta, on loan to the National Archives from David. Records of Rights is the gallery’s permanent exhibition that explores the documents and themes of the ongoing struggles of Americans to define, attain and protect their rights. The exhibit showcases the drive for civil rights for African Americans, women and immigrants—chronicling the past and current generations whose efforts to secure equality under the law have shaped the country we live in today.
National Archives | David M. Rubenstein Gallery
National Archives to Open New David M. Rubenstein Gallery
National Archives—Magna Carta, 1297
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The 1297 Magna Carta was written by a group of 13th century barons to protect their rights and property against a tyrannical king. American colonists believed they were entitled to the same rights as Englishmen, rights guaranteed in Magna Carta, which were later embedded into the Constitution and Bill of Rights.
David purchased Magna Carta in 2007, one of only four surviving originals and the only one that’s privately owned, which is on display in the David M. Rubenstein Gallery at the National Archives Museum.
National Archives | The Magna Carta
So How Do You Buy the Magna Carta? David Rubenstein Explains
National Archives—Stone Engravings of the Declaration of Independence, 1823
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Stone Engravings of the Declaration of Independence are precise, copperplate facsimiles of the original, created by engraver William J. Stone and commissioned in 1820 by then Secretary of State John Quincy Adams.
Of the 50 surviving Stone copies, David owns four. They are on display at the National Archives, National Constitution Center, State Department and New York Historical Society. He also donated reproductions of the document to every U.S. Embassy in the world and donated an 1833 second edition of the document to the Nantucket Historical Association.
National Archives | Finding the Stones
National Park Service—Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Robert E. Lee Memorial, located on the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, honors Lee's military and public leadership in pre- and post-Civil War America.
David donated funds to rehabilitate the house, grounds and slave quarters.
National Park Service | Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
Rubenstein Gift Helps Restore Arlington House
National Park Service—Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Sewall-Belmont House and Museum, designated in 2016 as the Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument, is a historic house and museum of the U.S. women's suffrage and equal rights movements.
David made a donation to fund critical repairs to and restoration of the house.
Leading the March for Women's Equality
David Rubenstein Gift Helps Restore Belmont-Paul National Monument
National Park Service—Lincoln Memorial
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Lincoln Memorial is an American national memorial built to honor the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. David’s donation will help renovate the memorial, including restoring the site’s murals, dramatically expanding exhibition space and allowing visitors to marvel at its architectural foundation and pilings.
National Park Service | Lincoln Memorial
David Rubenstein Donates to the NPF to Restore the Lincoln Memorial
National Park Service—U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima)
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Based on the iconic image of the second flag-raising on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial is dedicated to “the Marine dead of all wars and their comrades of other services who fell fighting beside them.”
David donated funds to refurbish the memorial in honor of his father.
National Park Service | Marine Corps War Memorial
David Rubenstein Donates to Restore Iwo Jima Memorial
National Park Service—Washington Monument
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
The Washington Monument is an American national monument built to commemorate the first President of the United States, George Washington.
David's donation helped repair the monument after it was damaged during an earthquake in 2011.
National Park Service | Washington Monument
Washington Monument Restoration—Repairing an American icon
Smithsonian—13th Amendment, 1865
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Signed by President Abraham Lincoln, the 13th Amendment officially abolished slavery in 1865.
David is loaning the 13th Amendment to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which will display the document in the museum’s History Galleries.
Smithsonian Announces David Rubenstein Gift to African-American Museum
Smithsonian—Emancipation Proclamation, 1863
HISTORIC DOCUMENTS / PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Signed by President Abraham Lincoln in January 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation declared “that all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states “are, and henceforward shall be free.” David has two copies of the proclamation, which is one of 48 "souvenier" copies signed by Lincoln, only about half of those have survived.
David has loaned one of the copies to The National Museum of African American History and Culture. The other will be loaned to the National Archives.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture
Rubenstein Buys a Copy of the Emancipation Proclamation
Thomas Jefferson's Monticello
PATRIOTIC PRESERVATION
Monticello was the primary plantation house of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.
David donated funds to help restore the upper floors of the Monticello house and reconstruct Mulberry Row, the adjacent plantation community where slaves and workers lived.
Monticello to Receive Gift for Restoration Efforts
Aspen Institute
EDUCATION / PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Aspen Institute is an educational and policy studies organization based in Washington, D.C.
David has provided support to Aspen's China Fellows Program.
Resnick Aspen Action Forum: Reflections on the 13th Amendment — Then and Now
Aspen Ideas Festival: Videos/Audio of David M. Rubenstein
Brookings Institution
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. whose mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.
David is co-chair of the Brookings Board of Trustees.
Celebrating the Brookings Centenary: The Trustees
Council on Foreign Relations
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is an independent, nonpartisan membership organization, think tank, and publisher dedicated to being a resource for its members, government officials, business executives, journalists, educators and students, civic and religious leaders, and other interested citizens in order to help them better understand the world and the foreign policy choices facing the United States and other countries.
David is Vice Chairman of CFR Board of Directors.
David M. Rubenstein Chair in Energy and the Environment
Interview: Grasping 'Radical' Economic Change
Economic Club of Washington, D.C.
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Economic Club of Washington, D.C. offers a forum for prominent business and government leaders to express their views on the most important economic issues.
In partnership with the Economic Club of Washington, D.C., in 2008 David initiated and funded the David M. Rubenstein/Economic Club of Washington, D.C. Scholarship Program. Since then, David and the Economic Club have presented more than 100 graduating seniors from DC public and charter schools with scholarships, helping them to pursue higher education opportunities.
Video interviews conducted by Mr. Rubenstein
The Economic Club Education Initiatives
The David M. Rubenstein Scholarship Program
Institute for Advanced Study
PUBLIC POLICY & CIVIC
The Institute for Advanced Study is one of the world’s leading centers for curiosity-driven basic research. Since 1930, it has served as a model for protecting and promoting independent inquiry, prompting the establishment of similar institutes around the world, and underscoring the importance of academic freedom worldwide.
David is a Trustee of the Institute. His donation provided funds for the construction of the new Rubenstein Commons.
David Rubenstein Supports New Building at the Institute for Advanced Study
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