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Fellowship Offers Funding to Support Dissertation Research on Women’s Philanthropy

Thursday, March 31, 2022

Avenel Rolfsen

Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy accepting applications through May 31 for $5,000 fellowship

Applications are currently being accepted for the Debra Mesch Doctoral Fellowship for Research on Women’s Philanthropy. The one-year, $5,000 fellowship supports doctoral dissertation research and writing that contributes to understanding of women’s philanthropy or gender differences in philanthropic behavior.

Ph.D. candidates from accredited graduate schools in the United States who have successfully completed their coursework and defended their dissertation proposal are encouraged to apply. The application deadline for the 2022 fellowship is May 31.

The Debra Mesch Doctoral Fellowship for Research on Women’s Philanthropy advances research to expand the base of knowledge on women’s philanthropy. Since 2009, the fellowship has supported emerging scholars in a range of academic disciplines, such as philanthropic studies, nonprofit management, higher education, economics, history, anthropology and religious studies.

Previous fellowship recipients have studied diverse topics, including Jewish women’s philanthropy and social change, women’s philanthropy initiatives at higher education institutions, the gender composition of nonprofit boards, and the history of gospel rescue missions.

Last year’s fellowship recipient, Avenel Rolfsen, of Indiana University—Bloomington, is examining the history of philanthropy in Senegal from the late nineteenth century until 1980. Rolfsen’s research emphasizes the gendered nature of giving in Senegal, and ultimately challenges notions of who should give and receive aid by emphasizing the long history of African philanthropists. 

View details about the Debra Mesch Doctoral Fellowship for Research on Women’s Philanthropy and the application form

About the Women’s Philanthropy Institute
The Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) is part of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. WPI increases understanding of women’s philanthropy through rigorous research and education, interpreting and sharing these insights broadly to improve philanthropy.

About the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IU Indianapolis is dedicated to improving philanthropy to improve the world by training and empowering students and professionals to be innovators and leaders who create positive and lasting change. The school offers a comprehensive approach to philanthropy through its undergraduate, graduate, certificate and professional development programs, its research and international programs and through The Fund Raising School, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, the Mays Family Institute on Diverse Philanthropy and the Women’s Philanthropy Institute. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram and “Like” us on Facebook.

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