Robert L. Payton

Bob was not only one of my professors in the PhD program in Philanthropic Studies at IU, he was a tremendous influence on my scholarship, teaching, my career and my life. I would not be where I am today if it were not for Robert Payton. The world of philanthropy including practitioners, researchers, scholars and teachers if forever grateful and in debt to Bob for his contributions and guiding light. I am producing a documentary on philanthropy and have decided to dedicate the film in his...

As a new faculty member in the IU School of Social Work, Bob invited me to travel to the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia to teach them how to transition from communism to democracy. Included in the discussions were non-governmental organizations as a crucial element of civil society. Later, discussions extended his concern to Poland. His philanthropic genius influenced social life, not only in the the United States, but internationally. His was a life well-lived in service to...

Dear Payton Family:
I was saddened to learn of the passing of your father, grandfather, family member and friend - Robert L. Payton. Bob was my mentor during the 1980s and 1990s in the philanthropic profession we shared. His thoughts and writings changed my life. His life and works continue to leave an imprint on our organization. May the Lord's blessings bring peace and comfort to all of you.

McClain Bybee
Managing Director
LDS Philanthropies
Brigham Young...