The Pham Foundation
A private family foundation established to support education, science, community enrichment, and the long-term practice of thoughtful, multi-generational philanthropy.
The Pham Foundation was founded in 2021 by Scott H. Pham and Tammy Thi Ngoc Duong. The foundation reflects our family’s immigrant journey, our belief in education, and our responsibility to use resources in ways that strengthen communities and create opportunity for future generations.
Our Mission
Our mission is to be a positive force in supporting educational and social causes, with a particular emphasis on education, science, and opportunities that help young people learn, grow, and contribute.
Education First
We believe education is one of the strongest foundations for constructive social change, personal growth, and long-term opportunity.
Thoughtful Giving
We support organizations and institutions whose work aligns with our values and whose programs can create lasting community benefit.
Family Stewardship
We use the foundation to teach future generations about responsibility, philanthropy, service, and the importance of building something that lasts.
Grant Making Focus Areas
The foundation supports initiatives in science, technology, academic achievement, public learning, environmental awareness, and selected nonprofit organizations.
Science & Technology
- California Academy of Sciences
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Conservation Society of California
- The Exploratorium
- The Marine Mammal Center
Academic Institutions
- UC Berkeley
- San Jose State University
- Twin Creeks Elementary School
- Iron Horse Middle School
- Dougherty Valley High School
- Chabot Elementary
- Dublin High School
Nonprofit & Community Organizations
- National Public Radio
- Happy Hollow Zoo and Park
- Hakone Estate and Gardens
- Gardens of Golden Gate Park
- UNICEF
Pham Family Scholarship Initiative
Expanding educational opportunity through STEM-focused scholarships.
The Pham Foundation believes that education, scientific advancement, and engineering excellence create long-term opportunities for students, families, and communities. As part of our long-term mission, the foundation intends to gradually expand scholarship offerings to universities that support STEM education, engineering, research, and academic achievement.
- San José State University – Pham Foundation Scholarship — Created and funded in 2026; $5,000 annual scholarship recognizing excellence in engineering.
- Planned UC Berkeley Scholarship — Future scholarship initiative currently under development (TBA).
About the Founders
Scott H. Pham
Scott H. Pham was born in 1971 in Quang Ngai, Viet Nam. He immigrated to the United States in 1981 and later graduated from San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.
Scott established Pham Properties LLC in 2017 and Marsh Holding LLC in 2020. In 2021, he founded The Pham Foundation to build a lasting family tradition of philanthropy focused on education, community support, and long-term stewardship.
Tammy Thi Ngoc Duong
Tammy Thi Ngoc Duong was born in Quang Ngai, Viet Nam. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley and pursued advanced study in biotechnology and fermentation sciences.
Her professional work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology research helps shape the foundation’s interest in science education, innovation, and institutions that expand public understanding of science.