About Founder
The vision and leadership behind The Daniels Foundation.
Dr. Kenneth Nolan Daniels
Dr. Kenneth Nolan Daniels is a distinguished finance scholar, public servant, and the visionary leader behind the Daniels Foundation for Impact Investments and Development. Academically, he serves as a Professor of Finance at Virginia Commonwealth University, where his research contributions have been widely recognized. He has published over 20 refereed articles in prominent journals such as The Journal of Money, Credit and Banking and The Journal of Corporate Finance. His expertise, particularly on municipal bonds and financial advisors, has garnered significant attention, even being cited in the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. His scholarly excellence is further underscored by awards, including the Sydney Futures Exchange Prize for outstanding papers on derivatives and investments from the Eastern Finance Association.
Beyond the university setting, Dr. Daniels has held influential positions in public and financial governance. He served on the Treasury Board for the Commonwealth of Virginia from 2002 to 2010. Currently, he is an active board member for several organizations, including the Richmond Retirement System, Virginia Community Capital Incorporated (VCC), and the Virginia Community Development Corporation (VCDC). His leadership in these roles includes serving as chairman of the finance committee for both the Richmond Retirement System and Virginia Community Capital, demonstrating his commitment to sound financial stewardship and community-focused investment.
Dr. Daniels has also channeled his professional and personal conviction into transformative social initiatives through his writing and philanthropy. He is the author of the autobiography No Tears, which shares his account of personal struggles and triumphs, confronting issues like racism and bigotry while calling for collective action and social justice. He is also the author of the work Black Camelot: What Happened When Black Exceptionalism Led the World. Through the Daniels Foundation for Impact Investments and Development, he turns this vision into reality, utilizing proceeds from his works to fuel initiatives focused on economic empowerment and educational change management, particularly promoting mathematics and technology engagement to foster Black Exceptionalism.
Ownership & Leadership
Geff
Geff, part owner of the Daniels Foundation for Impact Investments and Development, is an Actuary whose analytical expertise strengthens the Foundation’s long-term financial strategy and impact modeling. Combining quantitative rigor with mission-driven insight, he helps ensure that every initiative aligns with sustainable growth, risk management, and community-focused outcomes.
Geff – Part owner, Daniels Foundation for Impact Investments and Development Actuary & Strategic Advisor
Founder Gallery
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