The Valdry Center for Philanthropy recently hosted an insightful event, “Philanthropic Redlining: What Does the Data Show?” featuring Susan Taylor Batten, President and CEO of ABFE: A Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities. In 2023, ABFE released a groundbreaking report on foundation giving to HBCU’s. This event explored key findings from that report, shedding light on the persistent funding disparities that Black-led institutions face and their impact on institutional effectiveness. Batten shared research, data, and critical recommendations for fostering a more equitable field of philanthropy.
About Susan Taylor Batten
Susan Taylor Batten has been at the forefront of philanthropic advocacy for over 25 years. As President and CEO of Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE), Batten leads efforts to promote transformative and equitable investments in Black communities. Prior to joining ABFE in 2009, she held leadership roles in both the private and public sectors, including her time at the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Batten’s work has established her as a leading voice on issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion in philanthropy.
She serves on the boards of the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance and Giving Gap and frequently lectures at HBCU’s across the country. Batten holds a master’s degree in social work from Howard University and a bachelor’s degree in English and political science from Fisk University.
