Celebrating 30 Years of Community and Impact
More than two decades ago, a group of foundation leaders—many working with few or no staff—came together with a shared realization: they were navigating philanthropy largely on their own.
What began as a simple gathering sparked something bigger, a community built on connection, shared learning, and a commitment to doing more with less.
Today, as we celebrate 30 years of Exponent Philanthropy, we’re honoring the people who bring this work to life.
Through our 30 Changemakers campaign, we’re spotlighting individuals shaping our community and driving meaningful change.
Meet the Changemakers
Kathryn Buckner
President and CEO, Americana Foundation
Read Kathryn’s story
Kathryn leads the Americana Foundation’s work across agriculture, natural resources, and early American history. She focuses on creating impact beyond the grant, supporting early-stage efforts that help organizations grow—like an early investment in what became Double Up Food Bucks, now a national model.
Americana Foundation’s connection to Exponent Philanthropy goes back decades to its early days as the Association of Small Foundations, built to support funders with few or no staff.
Throughout the years, Kathryn has actively engaged with Exponent Philanthropy through our annual conferences, workshops, and peer learning. She relies on Exponent resources like the FOMR and values the relationships she’s built—connections that continue to offer insight and support in her role as a sole-staff leader. With more than 35 years of experience, she considers Exponent “one of the friendliest, most accessible, and most member-focused professional associations she’s been part of.”