Stop 2: Boat House Road

Abby Rockefeller, Winthrop’s mother, encouraged her children to take a genuine interest in people and their work. She insisted on Winthrop and the other children spending time in the kitchens learning to cook and serve food (photo 1). The Rockefeller children were each required to tend his/her own garden plot and sell the produce to earn spending money (photo 2).

Rockefeller Family (photo 3):

From left, back row: John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

From left, middle row: Abby Rockefeller, John D. Rockefeller, Sr., Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, John D. Rockefeller 3rd

From left, front row: Winthrop Rockefeller, David Rockefeller, Laurence S. Rockefeller, Nelson A. Rockefeller

From his parents, Winthrop learned the special responsibility to help others help themselves. The Institute has adopted the RESPONSIBILITY of a convener, much as Winthrop Rockefeller did when he lived on the mountain (photo 4). We bring diverse viewpoints together to engage in collaborative problem solving and respectful dialogue in order to create transformational change. We are challenging others, much as Winthrop Rockefeller did, to adopt the responsibility of searching for solutions to make the world a better place.

Reflection Question:

Take a few moments to reflect upon the influences in your life from your own family and loved ones.

• Who in your life influenced your responsibility to others?

• What advice would this person give you about your leadership role today?