Alison Bernstein

Alison Bernstein was a transformative figure in education and philanthropy. She graduated from Vassar College in 1969, later becoming its youngest trustee at age 22. She earned a Ph.D. in history from Columbia University (1985), focusing on Native American experiences during WWII. Her career spanned roles at the Ford Foundation, where she managed $400M annually in grants for education and creativity, and as director of Rutgers’ Institute for Women’s Leadership, establishing the Gloria Steinem Endowed Chair. Her research emphasized social justice, education equity, and marginalized communities. She co-authored influential works on higher education reforms and authored a seminal book on Native American history.

Education:

• B.A., Vassar College, History (1969)
• M.A., Columbia University, History (1970)
• Ph.D., Columbia University, History (1985)

Research Focus: Bernstein’s work centered on systemic inequities in education, Native American rights, and gender equality. She championed community colleges, student empowerment, and international educational access through programs like the Ford Foundation’s Urban Community College Transfer Opportunity Program.

Grants & Initiatives:

• Directed $400M/year in global grants at Ford Foundation
• Launched the International Fellowships Program for marginalized students
• Funded initiatives to increase Native American enrollment in higher education

Labs/Teams: She led Ford’s Education, Creativity, and Free Expression Program and co-founded the Institute for Women’s Leadership at Rutgers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration on feminist studies and media.