Recent News
First Lady Jill Biden Showed Betty Ford Grit at Annual First Ladies Luncheon
Grand Rapids, MI
April 26, 2024
Despite waking up without a voice on the morning of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation’s annual America’s First Ladies Luncheon, Dr. Jill Biden still made the trip to Grand Rapids to be the keynote speaker.
When trying to decide her plan of action, the first lady asked herself, “What would Betty Ford do?“
The decison became obvious.
“So, I got myself up and got myself together,” Dr. Biden told the room.
Her presence and remarks were the heart of this year’s beautiful lunch.
The Ford thanks every guest who came and made this day special.
Want to know more about our event?
See Fox17’s full coveage here.
Upcoming Events
#Ford50: Becoming Vice President
On December 6, 1973, Gerald R. Ford was sworn in as the 40th Vice President of the United States of America, forever elevating him as an exemplary statesman and leader. When his journey started on that day, he would be faced with challenges of restoring faith in the American Presidency. He rose to that challenge by displaying virtue and honesty at all times, showing the American people how a president should govern. Ford created a legacy of leadership, truth, and community through his presidency, and his legacy lives on today through leaders that follow his example.
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation fosters awareness of the life and legacy of America’s 38th President through activities promoting the high ideals of integrity, honesty, and candor that defined President Ford’s extraordinary career of public service. Join us as we celebrate 50 years since he took office, and see how you can help us continue the legacy.
2023 Gerald R. ford award for public service
Each year, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation awards the Medal for Distinguished Public Service to persons who have served the public good in the private and public sector.
The 2023 recipient was Robert M. Gates, Ph.D. Robert M. Gates served as the 22nd Secretary of Defense (2006-2011).
In recognition of the award Dr. Gates delivered the annual William E. Simon Lecture in Public Affairs.
Foundation Partners
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
DeVos Learning Center
Past Events & News
Brawling over the Presidency and Vice Presidency
H.W. Brands was back at the Ford! He discussed Gerald Ford, the American Vice Presidency, and his new book, Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics. H. W. (Henry William) Brands was born in Oregon, went to...
Restoring Trust and Rebuilding Institutions
Paige Alexander, Chief Executive Officer of The Carter Center, and Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, discuss the friendship that developed between former rivals and what their example means for restoring trust and...
The Entertainer-in-Chief
Gerald R. Ford became President at an unprecedented time of intensifying media scrutiny and growing public cynicism.
Support the Foundation
Your donation supports important Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum activities, which are not funded by the Federal government. Examples of supported activities include exhibits, speakers, educational programs and community events. DONATE TODAY!
- Student programs at the DeVos Learning Center
- Temporary Exhibits such as ‘In Step with Betty Ford’
- Student Essay Challenge with scholarship prize
- Underwriting Opportunities
- Archival research grants at the Library and Museum
