Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :

Remembering Joel Fleishman: A Philanthropic Pioneer and Connector of People

Joel Fleishman, a giant in the field of philanthropy and a master connector of influential networks, left an indelible mark on the world before his passing at the age of 90. Known for his transformative approach to philanthropy studies, Fleishman was an advocate for transparency and accountability in charitable foundations. His landmark book, “The Foundation: A Great American Secret,” challenged foundations to measure the impact of their contributions, shaking up the philanthropic landscape.

Fleishman’s journey took him from Yale to Duke University, where his vision helped establish one of the nation’s first public policy schools. His knack for bringing people together was legendary; he wasn’t just about making introductions but fostering meaningful connections that spurred societal progress. Darren Walker, former president of the Ford Foundation, considered it an honor to speak at Fleishman’s famous philanthropy and law class at Duke.

Beyond academia, Fleishman was a mentor to many young talents, guiding them through their careers and helping them shine in fields ranging from government to journalism. His influence extended into various domains, showcasing his diverse interests. Known as a wine connoisseur, Fleishman even penned a wine column for Vanity Fair in the 1980s.

Despite his achievements, Fleishman remained deeply connected to his roots. Raised in a close-knit Jewish community, he supported Jewish student life at Duke, culminating in the establishment of Fleishman House by the university’s Chabad chapter.

Joel Fleishman’s life was a testament to the power of connection, mentorship, and visionary thinking. His legacy lives on through the leaders he inspired and the institutions he helped shape. As we remember him, we celebrate a life dedicated to bridging divides and fostering change for the greater good.

Who Was Joel Fleishman and What Made Him So Influential?

Joel Fleishman, a name that resonates with powerhouses in philanthropy, education, and beyond, passed away recently at the age of 90. Known for his expertise in philanthropy and his vast network of influential friends, Fleishman was more than just your average scholar. His ability to connect people and his profound knowledge in areas like classical music and fine wine made him a unique figure among America’s elite. Although he passed away due to complications from a fall, his legacy continues to echo through the many lives he touched. Fleishman’s work, especially in the realm of philanthropy, set a benchmark for future generations. As [Clay Risen](https://www.nytimes.com/by/clay-risen) from The New York Times noted, Fleishman’s influence was unparalleled, marking him as an enduring figure in both personal and professional circles.

What Was Fleishman’s Impact on Philanthropy Studies?

Fleishman’s contributions to philanthropy are legendary. He was among the pioneering scholars who emphasized the importance of measuring the impact of charitable foundations. His 2007 book, “The Foundation: A Great American Secret,” was a game-changer. This book not only highlighted the crucial role of private philanthropies in societal progress but also called them out on their shortcomings. Fleishman passionately argued that these institutions often operated in a bubble, detached from the very communities they aimed to assist. Through his work, he urged for transparency and accountability, insisting that foundations should be more open about their failures and successes. This perspective led to a wave of changes, pushing foundations to rethink their strategies and engage more openly with the public and the communities they serve.

How Did Joel Fleishman Shape Duke University’s Public Policy School?

When Fleishman arrived at Duke University in 1971, the landscape of public policy education was still evolving. Invited by former North Carolina Governor Terry Sanford, who was then the university’s president, Fleishman played a pivotal role in establishing Duke’s public policy school. His vision was to create a program that blended law, social policy, and public management—an innovative idea at the time. Fleishman’s efforts laid the groundwork for what is now known as the Sanford School of Public Policy. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he engaged with students and faculty alike to foster a culture of critical thinking and public service. Over the years, he became a senior vice president of the university, further cementing his legacy as a transformative figure in academia.

Why Was Fleishman Considered a Master Connector?

Joel Fleishman was not just a professor or a scholar; he was a mentor and a connector of people. Known for his incredible networking skills, he was often referred to as the “great connector.” Fleishman had a knack for bringing people together, fostering relationships that would lead to transformative changes across various sectors. He actively sought out young talent, mentoring them in areas like classical music and career development. Fleishman’s influence went beyond mere connections; he believed in building bridges between the government, private, and nonprofit sectors. His philosophy centered on the idea of civil society, where individuals and institutions work together for the greater good. As [Dina Powell McCormick](https://www.goldmansachs.com/our-firm/people-and-leadership/leadership/management-committee/dina-powell-mccormick.html), a former deputy national security adviser, pointed out, Fleishman’s mentorship produced a generation of leaders across various fields, leaving a lasting impact on society.

What Were Fleishman’s Early Life and Academic Achievements?

Born on April 15, 1934, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Joel Laurence Fleishman came from humble beginnings. His father, Albert, was a beer distributor, while his mother, Ruth, managed the household. Fleishman’s academic journey began at the University of North Carolina, where he earned a degree in history in 1955. He then pursued a law degree, graduating in 1959. But Fleishman wasn’t just about academics; he was also an accomplished amateur playwright, showcasing his creative side through plays he wrote and directed. In 1960, he added two more feathers to his cap by earning master’s degrees in theater and law from UNC and Yale Law School, respectively. These experiences laid the foundation for a career that would be marked by intellectual curiosity and a commitment to public service.

How Did Fleishman Contribute to Public Service and Government?

In 1961, Fleishman joined the administration of Terry Sanford, then the Governor of North Carolina. As part of Sanford’s team, Fleishman contributed to a brain trust of advisers that sought to bring innovative ideas to state governance. His role wasn’t just limited to policy advice; he actively recruited talents like novelist John Ehle to join the team, reflecting his belief in interdisciplinary collaboration. After a stint at Yale, where he led programs for underserved students, Fleishman returned to North Carolina at Sanford’s behest to help shape Duke’s burgeoning public policy program. His work at Duke and in government circles exemplified his ability to transcend traditional boundaries, bringing academic insights into the realm of public affairs.

What Was Fleishman’s Role in Fundraising and Philanthropic Services?

Fleishman’s fundraising prowess was legendary. During his tenure at Duke, he led a capital campaign that raised over $500 million, significantly enhancing the university’s resources and capabilities. His success in fundraising wasn’t just about numbers; it was about understanding the needs of both donors and recipients, creating a dialogue that resulted in meaningful contributions. Fleishman’s expertise also extended to philanthropic services when he took a leave from Duke to manage Atlantic Philanthropic Services. This role involved disbursing grants from the Atlantic Foundation and the Atlantic Trust, further showcasing his ability to navigate the complexities of philanthropy and fundraising.

How Did Joel Fleishman Balance His Diverse Interests?

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joel Fleishman had a rich tapestry of personal interests that added depth to his character. He was a passionate wine connoisseur, writing a wine column for Vanity Fair in the late 1980s. His love for classical music and theater also shone through in his interactions with students and colleagues. Fleishman’s upbringing in a close-knit Jewish community in Fayetteville instilled in him a strong sense of faith and community service. He was actively involved in raising funds for Jewish student life at Duke, ensuring that future generations could benefit from a supportive community. In 2021, Duke’s Chabad chapter honored his contributions by naming their new building Fleishman House. These interests and activities highlight Fleishman’s multifaceted personality, showing that his life was as vibrant and diverse as the causes he championed.

What Legacy Did Joel Fleishman Leave Behind?

Joel Fleishman’s legacy is a tapestry of achievements in academia, philanthropy, and mentorship. His pioneering work in philanthropy studies has left an indelible mark on the field, encouraging foundations to be more transparent and accountable. At Duke University, his efforts in building the public policy school and leading successful fundraising campaigns have had a lasting impact on the institution’s growth and reputation. Beyond these tangible achievements, Fleishman’s role as a mentor and connector has influenced countless lives, fostering a new generation of leaders committed to making a positive difference in the world. As he taught his final class in 2023, Fleishman insisted that he wasn’t retiring but merely downsizing—a testament to his enduring passion for learning and teaching. Joel Fleishman’s life was a testament to the power of connection, the importance of transparency, and the enduring impact of mentorship.

This article originally appeared in [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/). Capitol Broadcasting Company’s Opinion Section seeks a broad range of comments and letters to the editor. Our Comments beside each opinion column offer the opportunity to engage in a dialogue about this article. In addition, we invite you to write a letter to the editor about this or any other opinion articles. Here are some tips on submissions >> [SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR](https://www.wral.com/submit-a-letter-to-the-editor/).