INDIANAPOLIS—The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IU Indianapolis celebrated its 13th class of graduates since becoming a school, with students receiving their credentials during IU Indianapolis commencement ceremonies May 15 at Michael A. Carroll Stadium on the IU Indianapolis campus.
Graduating students earned Ph.D., Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degrees and graduate certificates in Philanthropic Studies, as well as one student who received a minor in philanthropic studies from the world's first school dedicated to research and teaching about philanthropy.
The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy held a school recognition ceremony on May 17 with 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Sarah Nathan as keynote speaker. Nathan is the executive director of the Middletown Community Foundation in Middletown, Ohio. She serves as the chief fundraiser, oversees day-to-day operations, and works with the board to define a community leadership agenda. The foundation aims to improve the quality of life and encourages the enhancement of community support for Middletown and its surrounding communities. She earned her Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies in 2009 and her Ph.D. in Philanthropic Studies in 2013.
Graduating student Lisa Clark also spoke. Clark earned her Bachelor of Arts in Philanthropic Studies and is the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy’s Chancellor’s Scholar, graduating with highest distinction. She has accepted a position as volunteer coordinator with St. Vincent de Paul.
The 2025 graduates represent a wide range of experience, from veteran philanthropic sector leaders completing graduate-level programs that expand their knowledge and enhance their careers and organizations to civically engaged undergraduates. Organizations across the philanthropic sector and around the world will benefit from the graduating students' expertise.
This year's graduates have earned new positions such as:
- Director of Collaboratives, Philanthropy Southwest
- Marketing Coordinator, The MJ Companies
Other graduates are continuing their current roles such as:
- Development Officer, Kiwanis International Foundation
- Philanthropy Officer, Northern Kentucky University
- President/CEO, Wayne County Community Foundation (Pennsylvania)
- Estate Planner, Archford
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 X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, or Instagram and “Like” us on Facebook.