This webpage honors the life and legacy of Joel L. Fleishman, founding director of public policy at Duke University, scholar, professor and friend to many. Professor Fleishman died on September 30, 2024 at the age of 90. Please join us in honoring him in the following ways.
Explore Joel Fleishman's Celebration of Life
We had a wonderful celebration of life for our esteemed founding director, Professor Joel Fleishman, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at the Washington Duke Inn at Duke University.
- Read a recap
- Watch short video recap
- Browse event images
- Access "memories" presentation
- View video of remote speakers
- Sanford story remembering Fleishman (includes videos, obituaries and other resources)
Make a Gift in Memory
There are many gift opportunities to honor Joel Fleishman, who changed the world through his work on philanthropy and scholarship.
Individuals wishing to contribute to the Sanford School of Public Policy in his honor may do so through the established Joel L. Fleishman Professorship Fund.
For additional giving opportunities, contact Sanford Development and Alumni Relations.
Explore Stories and Videos
Read the many obituaries and stories celebrating the life of Joel Fleishman.
The New York Times - Frank Bruni's newsletter: On a Personal Note (In Memoriam)
The Washington Post: Joel Fleishman, philanthropy scholar and university leader, dies at 90
Forbes: The Precious Gift of Mentorship Doesn’t Have To Be So Rare by Sanford alumnus Brandon Busteed
Raleigh News & Observer: Joel Fleishman, legendary founder of Duke’s public policy school, dies at 90
The Chronicle (Duke): Joel Fleishman, founding director of the Sanford School of Public Policy, dies at age 90
WRAL: Joel Fleishman, influential N.C. expert on philanthropy, dies at 90
Partnership for Public Service: In memory of Joel Fleishman, founding member of the Partnership board of directors
Duke Center for Documentary Studies: A Remembrance of Joel Fleishman
HistPhil: A “Towering Figure” In The World Of Philanthropy: Remembering Joel Fleishman by Sanford Professor Kristin A. Goss and Adjunct Instructor Damon Circosta, Executive Director of the A.J. Fletcher Foundation
In addition, explore multiple videos of Professor Fleishman's journey at Duke University and his life at the link below.