About the Morris Family Advised Fund
The Morris Family Advised Fund was established to invest in the long-term health, vitality, and opportunity of Central New York. Guided by a belief that strong communities depend on access to education, sound health systems, and continued scientific discovery, the Fund supports nonprofit organizations whose work delivers measurable, lasting benefit to the region.
The Fund focuses on initiatives that promote community health and well-being, advance scientific and medical research, and expand educational opportunity—particularly for children and young people. Grants are awarded through an annual application process, allowing the Fund to thoughtfully evaluate needs, outcomes, and alignment with its mission. Annual awards may range from $20,000 to $1 million, depending on scope and impact.
Geographically, the Morris Family Advised Fund concentrates its giving within Central New York, reflecting a commitment to the communities that have shaped its founder and continue to define the region’s character and resilience.
See the geographic area upon which the fund is focused.
About the Founder
Robert S. “Rob” Morris is a Central New York native whose personal and professional journey has been shaped by the institutions, educators, and opportunities of the region. He is the son of Irma M. and Robert D. Morris and a graduate of Jamesville-DeWitt High School.
Mr. Morris earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Hamilton College and later received a master’s degree from the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. He began his career at General Electric, holding a range of management roles across manufacturing and financial services before being named Senior Vice President and General Manager of Private Placements at GE Investment Corporation.
In 1988, Mr. Morris founded Olympus Partners, a private equity firm based in Stamford, Connecticut. Since its founding, Olympus Partners has raised more than $12 billion, reflecting decades of disciplined leadership and long-term value creation.
A Commitment to Giving Back
Philanthropy has long been a defining part of Mr. Morris’s life. He is among Hamilton College’s largest donors, supporting faculty endowments, academic initiatives, student financial aid, internships, and major campus improvements. His relationship with the Upstate Foundation spans more than 25 years, including sustained support for post-polio syndrome research conducted at Upstate Medical University.
Through the Morris Family Advised Fund, Mr. Morris has broadened this commitment to benefit a wider range of organizations working across Central New York. Current and past areas of consideration have included nonprofits addressing food insecurity among schoolchildren, supporting children and families in need, advancing cancer research and advocacy, and creating access to enrichment opportunities such as youth sports and recreation.
Reflecting on his motivation, Mr. Morris has said: “I have been fortunate. I am very grateful to the people and institutions that presented me with opportunities and formative experiences that allowed me to become the master of what I chose to pursue. Now I am at the point where I can broaden my areas of support to help other organizations strengthen community health and well-being throughout the region.”
Focus Area: Central New York
The Morris Family Advised Fund’s geographic focus is Central New York, with priority given to organizations serving counties within the region. A map outlining the Fund’s primary service area is provided to reflect this commitment and to help applicants understand geographic eligibility.
By remaining rooted in place, the Fund seeks to make thoughtful, strategic investments that honor the region’s past while helping to build a stronger future for the generations to come.
