Jacksonville, FL – March 2025 – The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations (AVDF) is pleased to announce the promotion of Dr. John Churchill to Vice President of Grants and Programs, effective January 1, 2025. Since joining AVDF in 2019 as Director of Programs, Dr. Churchill has played a pivotal role in guiding the Foundations’ grantmaking activities and advancing their mission to support inclusive higher education, public educational media, interfaith leadership, palliative care, and environmental solutions.
“John Churchill’s deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape, combined with his thoughtful leadership and strategic vision, has significantly strengthened our grantmaking initiatives at AVDF,” said Michael Murray, President and CEO of AVDF. “His dedication to advancing our program areas and his ability to cultivate meaningful partnerships make him the ideal person to serve as Vice President of Grants and Programs. We are excited to see how his continued leadership will enhance the Foundations’ impact.”
Dr. Churchill brings extensive philanthropic expertise to his new role, having previously served as Director of Philosophy and Theology at the John Templeton Foundation (JTF). During his tenure at JTF, he oversaw a $50 million active grant portfolio and expanded interdisciplinary research funding at the intersection of science, philosophy, and theology. He also led efforts to broaden JTF’s international footprint, significantly increasing grant support in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.
Dr. Churchill holds an M.A. in philosophy from Texas A&M University and a Ph.D. in philosophy from Indiana University. His career in philanthropy began at JTF, where he rose from Program Officer to Director of Philosophy and Theology. In that role, he developed and launched innovative grant programs, including a “New Frontier” portfolio that provided funding to emerging global research hubs.
“Working alongside John, I’ve seen firsthand how his collaborative spirit and passion for philanthropy have helped guide our work at AVDF,” said Senior Program Officer Nate Schult. “His keen insights and commitment to innovation have been invaluable, and I look forward to the ways he will continue to shape our grantmaking and amplify our mission.”
Dr. Churchill’s leadership and expertise have earned him the respect of his colleagues, who recognize the impact of his strategic vision and collaborative approach to philanthropy.
“I am honored to step into this new role at AVDF and to continue working with our dedicated team and partners to advance the Foundations’ mission,” said Vice President of Grants and Programs, Dr. John Churchill. “Philanthropy has the unique ability to catalyze positive change, and I look forward to building on our grantmaking legacy by supporting organizations that strengthen the fabric of American life and contribute to the common good.”
About the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations
The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations were organized in 1952 and are supported by two trusts established by Mr. Arthur Vining Davis. The Foundations aim to bear witness to Mr. Davis’ successful corporate leadership and his ambitious philanthropic vision. Since their inception, the Foundations have given over 4,600 grants totaling more than $385 million to support inclusive higher education and healthcare, high-quality public media, vibrant spiritual communities, and a clean environment. In supporting these sectors, the Foundations are investing in our common future.
For more information about the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, please visit www.avdf.org.
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