THE KIDD FAMILY FOUNDATION
Albert and Elizabeth Kidd are lifelong philanthropists with a shared dedication to education, the arts, and civic life.
Albert Kidd spent over 30 years as a senior executive in the global oil and gas industry with ExxonMobil. His career took him and his family around the world, building an appreciation for international communities and a lasting commitment to giving back. A graduate of Rice University, Albert earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He served on Rice University boards for over three decades, as well as on the boards of numerous cultural, civic, and educational institutions across the U.S.
Elizabeth Kidd has played an essential role in the family’s philanthropic giving. A passionate advocate for progressive causes, she has supported initiatives advancing inclusion, education, and the arts for decades. Her work goes beyond giving—providing long-term engagement and strategic support for many of the organizations. She has served on various nonprofit and cultural boards and remains a guiding voice in the family’s giving.
The Kidds are proud parents and grandparents, with family based in both the U.S. and the UK. Proud Democrats and have supported the party consistently throughout their lives.
Philanthropic Giving and Impact
The Kidd Family Foundation supports institutions and initiatives that strengthen education, music, civic life, and the arts. Their giving reflects a belief in long-term, mission-aligned investment in public and cultural institutions.
Houston
As Houston natives, the Kidds have a longstanding relationship with the city and with Rice University, where their support has had a transformational impact across campus. They established an endowed fund within the School of Humanities to support Art History, and their contributions have strengthened programs including the Shepherd School of Music, the Baker Institute, the Glasscock School of Continuing Studies, the Moody Center for the Arts, and the School of Engineering. In 2008, their gift of a Lino Tagliapietra glass installation helped launch Rice Public Art.
Beyond Rice, the Kidds have contributed to a range of nonprofit organizations throughout Houston, including the Houston Opera, as well as numerous cultural, educational, and civic institutions that enrich the city’s public life.
Santa Fe
In Santa Fe, the Kidds have supported a wide range of cultural institutions, including the Santa Fe Opera, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, and the Georgia O’Keeffe Foundation. They are also active supporters of regional and grassroots arts initiatives, reflecting a belief in the value of local creativity.
London
The Kidds have extended their philanthropy to the UK through support for both the arts and education. Their contributions include support for the Writers Prize, the Arvon Foundation and organizations that promotes creative writing.
Art Collection
Albert and Elizabeth divide their time between Houston and Santa Fe. Two cities that have shaped their family life and their philanthropic commitments.
Across these homes, the Kidds have built a collection of contemporary and classical art. Their collection includes works from local emerging and established artists and reflects their years of travelling with emphasis on promoting emerging talent.
Ongoing Mission and Contact
The Kidd Family Foundation continues to support causes that promote education, creativity, and civic engagement. Albert and Elizabeth Kidd remain committed to supporting individuals and institutions whose work reflects curiosity, inclusion, and long-term social impact. They believe in the power of thoughtful giving to nurture both local communities and global progress.
The Foundation remains open to new artists, institutions, and are encouraged to reach out with proposals, portfolios, or ideas.
To get in touch, please fill out the Contact page on this website.

