The institute supports and publishes research on education policy in the United States.

The Institute's eponym was a businessman and civic leader in Dayton, Ohio.

In 1997, following the death of Pruett, the Foundation was relaunched, with a narrowed focus on education.

Led by Chester E. Finn Jr. and Michael J. Petrilli, Fordham publishes and supports research on K-12 education across the nation.

Additionally, Fordham staff and board members remain involved in organizations that support and develop quality schools.