William Durham Fund for Discovery and Learning
Endowed fund for lasting conservation and sustainability of Galapagos
The William Durham Fund for Discovery and Learning is the first endowment of its kind at the Charles Darwin Foundation, honoring Professor Bill Durham, whose lifelong commitment to the Galapagos Islands and conservation has inspired generations of scientists, students, and supporters. This fund ensures that his vision of integrating science, education, and sustainability will continue to shape the future of Galapagos conservation.
About Professor Bill Durham
William (Bill) Durham is Bing Professor in Human Biology (Emeritus), Bass University Fellow in Undergraduate Education, and a Senior Fellow (Emeritus) at Stanford’s Woods Institute for the Environment. Since 1977, he has been jointly appointed in Human Biology and Anthropology at Stanford. Through decades of work in the Galapagos Islands, in both research and educational outreach, Bill has greatly enhanced our global understanding and appreciation of the social, natural, and evolutionary history of Galapagos. An expert in evolutionary principles and environmental issues in Latin America, Bill has conducted fieldwork in Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and Central America. He was awarded a MacArthur Prize Fellowship and five teaching and research awards at Stanford. His recent book, Exuberant Life: An Evolutionary Approach to Conservation in Galápagos, earned a silver medallion in the "2022 PROSE Awards for Professional and Scholarly Excellence" (Association of American Publishers). Bill has led more than 40 educational tours of the islands and has spearheaded numerous fundraising campaigns for the Charles Darwin Foundation and its Research Station.
View Bill's biography
Schmidt Ocean Institute
William Durham Fund for Discovery and Learning
The William Durham Fund supports the Charles Darwin Foundation’s mission by fostering interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach programs. It promotes responsible socio-economic and conservation efforts in Galapagos. Managed by the Executive Director, the fund provides support for scientists, scholars, students, and fellows, with annual recognition of "Durham Fellows" or "Durham Scientists" dedicated to advancing conservation and sustainability in the islands.
How you can contribute
Your contribution to this fund is an investment in the future of Galapagos, fostering new generations of scientists and conservationists who will contribute to the global understanding of biodiversity and sustainability.
The endowment is managed by the Friends of the Charles Darwin Foundation (FCDF). FCDF was established in the United States in 2021 to conduct activities that support or benefit the Charles Darwin Foundation. It operates as a Public Charity under IRS Code 501(c)(3), with a tax ID number 86-2660112.
We welcome contributions of cash or securities. If you would like to make the donation please contact our Chief Development Officer, Jim Boyle at jim.boyle@fcdarwin.org.ec or call +1 360 920 6302.
Carlos Espinosa-CDF
Let's chat
Let's chat
You can contact our Chief Development Officer, Jim Boyle to discuss the ways to get involved.