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Early Beginnings

Gilbert M. Grosvenor, or as he is better known to us, Gil, has led an extraordinary life. As the former elected president and chairman of the National Geographic Society (NGS), he has left a legacy of leadership and a deep commitment to advancing geography education in America’s schools. During his tenure from 1980 to 2010, the NGS expanded into television, film, books, children’s publications, and digital media. His autobiography, A Man of the World, recounts his remarkable journey, beginning as an editor of the iconic National Geographic magazine in 1970, which reached over 13 million readers worldwide at its peak. Through his editorial leadership, the magazine became a powerful platform for fostering understanding of the world’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and communities, enriching countless lives with its vivid storytelling and global perspective. 

Education Across America

As Gil transitioned from the editorship of National Geographic magazine to being the President and Chairman of NGS in 1980, he used his new influence to begin addressing a growing concern: the poor geographic literacy among students and their lack of understanding of the world around them. Through these challenges, Gil found the motivation to embark on the second phase of his illustrious career—advocating for and redefining geographic education. He saw an opportunity to make a real impact through partnerships with schools and universities across the United States, for which he was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In 1985, Gil launched the State Alliance Program for Geography Education, a groundbreaking initiative designed to improve the teaching and learning of geography. With his leadership and the resources of NGS, the program grew rapidly, bringing together teachers and university professors to collaborate on enhancing geographic education. By 1993, the program had expanded to include all states, Canada and Puerto Rico, benefiting students and educators nationwide. Texas State University held a special place in Gil’s heart, with the university consistently referred to as a “Flagship Alliance.” Gil frequently visited the San Marcos campus, further solidifying his connection and support for the university’s geography education efforts.

A Lifetime of Achievements

In the latter part of his distinguished career, Gil focused with increasing momentum on advancing geography education across America's schools and universities, with his advocacy expanding in both scope and influence. We believe that his efforts during this phase of his life are deserving of further recognition, perhaps in a second volume of his book titled, Leading the Way to a Better Understanding of Our World, which would celebrate his tireless work to empower educators and inspire future generations. The key milestones in Gil’s enduring legacy include:

• Elected President of NGS in 1980 and Board Chairman in 1985.
• Supported the Alexander Graham Bell Association, helping individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Expanded the distribution of National Geographic magazine internationally, furthering its reach and impact across the globe.
• Pioneered the launch of NGS Explorer, bringing the world of geography to cable TV audiences.
• Founded the National Geography Bee in 1989, engaging 6 million students annually in geographic exploration.
• Advocated for and funded the State Alliances for Geography Education, beginning in 1985 with just eight states and ultimately growing to 52.
• Founded the NGS Education Foundation, providing match funds for 23 states to support geography education initiatives.
• Honored with 13 honorary Ph.D.’s for his work in advancing world education and geographic literacy.
• Initiated loans from NGS to fund the research and creation of Geography for Life: National Standards, a crucial resource for geography educators.
• Provided significant support for the creation of Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography, broadening access for high school students seeking advanced geographic education.
• Created and funded the Summer Geography Teacher Training Program at NGS headquarters in Washington, D.C., providing professional development for educators nationwide.
• Approved the establishment of the Gilbert M. Grosvenor Center for Geographic Education at Texas State University, a testament to his enduring legacy in geographic education.
• Established the Grosvenor Distinguished Lecture Series at Texas State University, inviting influential figures such as James A. Baker III, Kay Bailey Hutchison, Karl Rove, and Alex Trebek to speak on topics related to global geography.
• Created and supported the Grosvenor Scholars program, fostering the next generation of geographic leaders and educators.

The Gilbert M. Grosvenor Legacy Endowment

These accomplishments stand as a powerful testament to Mr. Grosvenor's unwavering devotion to enhancing geography education. His work has had a profound impact, with many of his initiatives and programs being carried and supported by Texas State University and its Gilbert M. Grosvenor Center for Geographic Education. As a way of honoring his lifelong contributions, Texas State is presently creating a memorial dedicated to celebrating his remarkable legacy.

The memorial will serve as a well-publicized resource, accessible to students, faculty, and the public, providing a lasting tribute to Gil’s extensive work in education. The space will house an array of materials—books, letters, records, photographs, films, and personal commentary—that document his transformative influence on geography education. This memorial will offer researchers, educators, and visitors an opportunity to explore the life and work of a visionary leader who dedicated his career to making the world a better, more educated place for future generations.