Penelope McPhee

Penelope McPhee
Name	Penelope McPhee
Known for	Philanthropy, leadership of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation

Penelope McPhee is an American philanthropist and nonprofit executive renowned for her strategic leadership in the philanthropic sector. She has served as the president of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, guiding its significant investments in Atlanta and beyond. McPhee's career is distinguished by her focus on community development, youth development, and the arts, alongside extensive service on numerous civic and cultural boards.

Early life and education

Penelope McPhee was raised in a family with a strong commitment to public service and the arts. She pursued her higher education at Georgetown University, where she earned a degree in English. Her academic foundation was further strengthened by graduate studies, which equipped her with the analytical and communication skills central to her later career in philanthropy and institutional leadership.

Career

McPhee's professional journey began in the field of journalism, where she worked as an editor and writer for prominent publications, honing her narrative and strategic thinking abilities. She transitioned into the philanthropic world, taking on roles that blended program development with strategic grantmaking. Prior to her tenure at the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, she held significant positions at other major philanthropic organizations, including the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, where she contributed to national initiatives in community engagement and the arts.

Leadership at the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation

Appointed president in 2004, Penelope McPhee has been instrumental in shaping the vision and impact of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. Under her guidance, the foundation has made transformative grants focused on Atlanta's historic Westside, supporting initiatives in early childhood education, affordable housing, and economic mobility. She has overseen major investments in green space through the Atlanta BeltLine and in youth development programs across the city. Her leadership emphasizes collaborative philanthropy, often partnering with entities like the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation, the Zeist Foundation, and local government to amplify community-led solutions.

Board memberships and civic engagement

McPhee's expertise is sought after by a wide array of civic, cultural, and educational institutions. She has served on the boards of the Woodruff Arts Center, the Alliance Theatre, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Her commitment to education and community vitality is reflected in her service to Spelman College, the United Way of Greater Atlanta, and the Georgia Research Alliance. She also contributes to national dialogues on philanthropy through roles with organizations like the Council on Foundations.

Personal life

Penelope McPhee is married to Arthur M. Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC. Together, they are prominent figures in Atlanta's civic and philanthropic landscape. The couple shares a dedication to giving back, often participating in community events and supporting a wide range of charitable causes. They maintain residences in Atlanta and Montana.

Awards and recognition

For her impactful work, Penelope McPhee has received numerous accolades. She has been honored by institutions such as Spelman College and the Anti-Defamation League. In 2019, she and her husband were jointly awarded the Oglethorpe Award by the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, recognizing their extraordinary service to the community. Her leadership continues to be recognized as a model of strategic, place-based philanthropy.

Category:American philanthropists Category:People from Atlanta