Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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Video courtesy: CNBC | 250 Years Bold

Dr. Raj Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation, discusses the foundation's 100+ year legacy of scientific philanthropy and its vision for America's future as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

The Rockefeller Foundation's Origins:
-Founded in 1913 by John D. Rockefeller Sr., one of America's first titans of industry
-Created to apply science and innovation to transform lives globally
-First major project: eradicating hookworm in the American South

Current Focus Areas:
-Food Systems: Promoting regenerative agriculture and providing resilient school meals to 100 million children
-Energy Access: Mission to reach the millions of people living without electricity
-Innovation: Using AI and technology to solve challenges like lead pipe contamination in American cities

America's Future:
-Dr. Shah emphasizes innovation and inclusion as America's defining forces over 250 years
-Vision: Recreate pathways to the American Dream through science, entrepreneurship, and inclusive opportunity

Part of CNBC's America 250 series exploring leaders, companies, and institutions shaping America's next chapter.