Early Life and Education
Amy Goldman Fowler was born in 1954. She is the daughter of Lillian (née Schuman) and Sol Goldman. Her father was a prominent real estate investor in New York City, amassing a large portfolio of commercial and residential properties. She has three siblings: Allan H. Goldman, Diane Goldman Kemper, and Jane Goldman. Amy earned a Bachelor's degree in psychology from Barnard College, a Master's in developmental psychology from Columbia University's Teachers College, and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Oklahoma State University.
Rise to Success
Fowler's path to prominence is unique, blending her academic background with her passion for horticulture and philanthropy. She inherited a stake in Solil Management, the real estate firm founded by her father, which manages hundreds of properties. However, she is best known for her advocacy for seed saving and the preservation of heirloom fruits and vegetables. She planted her first kitchen garden as an 18 year-old. She advocates for seed collection and preservation, and sat on the board of Seed Savers Exchange for over a decade, serving as the board chair for half that time. She is now a special adviser to the board of the Exchange.
Key Business Strategies
Fowler's "business" is the preservation of heirloom varieties. Her approach involves growing, studying, and documenting various heirloom plants. She has written several books on the subject, which have won awards from the American Horticultural Society and Garden Writers Association of America. She has also been the vice chair of the New York Botanical Garden's board of managers.
Philanthropy
Amy Goldman Fowler is a trustee of both the Lillian Goldman Charitable Trust and the Amy P. Goldman Foundation. She is also on the council of the New York Restoration Project. Goldman previously served as executive director of the Sol Goldman Charitable Trust of New York City. As of 2024, Goldman was one of the largest donors to Democratic Party candidates, having contributed over $27,000,000 in her lifetime.
