History
 

Allen J. Graham (1912-2003) was a native of Greenville, SC, where he lived most of his life, throughout which he displayed quiet dignity and universal courtesy. The high level of achievement he brought to many endeavors was rarely displayed in public. 

Following his graduation from Davidson College, Mr. Graham served in Europe under General Patton during World War II. Later he became a nationally recognized marksman, winning numerous awards for his high level of skill. Most of his working career was spent in real estate in and around the Greenville area.  He was a life-long member of Fourth Presbyterian Church.

Throughout his life Mr. Graham showed compassion for others as well as devotion to improving the quality of life in and around Greenville. As examples, he, with his family, were founding donors of the Peace Center for the Performing Arts and substantial contributors to the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts.  These commitments and other charitable interests led to the creation and initial funding of the Graham Foundation in 1985.

At his death Mr. Graham left the majority of his personal estate to the Graham Foundation, which is now one of the larger private foundations in South Carolina.  Governance is through its Board of Trustees, which currently consists of five members.  Additional information concerning areas of interest, meeting schedule, and grant application guidelines are contained within this website.