
Ryan Stowers
Executive Director
Charles Koch Foundation
“We’re all capable of extraordinary things, but in a very unique and individualized way.”
Charles Koch Foundation
“We’re all capable of extraordinary things, but in a very unique and individualized way.”
Executive Director
I help manage the vision and strategy for Charles Koch's philanthropic foundation.
I work on the foundation's vision and the strategies that we deploy to make sure our grants and other impact efforts are consistent with that vision. I also supervise a group of leaders that run the operations, grant management, and relationships of the foundation. It's my job to empower them and make sure they have everything they need to be successful. I also spend time representing the foundation publicly when we make a large donation, conduct interviews, and engage in other public events.
Here's the first step for high school students
It's important to really take time to take a real introspective look at what you're good at and what you're not really inclined for. Try to find a pathway that aligns with those things you're good at. When I was younger, I thought I knew what I wanted to become. As I grew up and went through school, I realized that I was actually better suited for other things. I encourage you to pay attention to the things you're good at rather than trying to fit into a standard box that isn't right for you.
"You need to become either a doctor, lawyer, or accountant."