Katherine Fanning, a founder of the Institute for Global Ethics and one of America’s most notable journalists, passed away in October 2000. Kay was an exemplary board member, giving unstinting encouragement to our mission of promoting ethics through public discourse and practical action. As an editor and an executive, she was tough-minded, clear-thinking, decisive, and fair. Yet at the same time she was deeply compassionate, exceptionally warm, naturally outgoing, and full of love.

Proactive in her concern for others, she was never invasive in her efforts to help; deeply respectful of others’ individuality, she never shrank from intervening when it was right to do so. 

Kay maintained an unwavering commitment to the power of good, the possibilities for improvement, and the benefits of doing right. Through a bequest to the Institute, she helped ensure that her legacy will be carried on for years to come. We are deeply grateful for her wisdom, energy, and generosity.