The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy hosted its annual Pitch Your Passion competition in March, awarding more than $119,000 in annual scholarships to 15 students from six states. Three top winners earned the Thomasson Scholarship, covering up to four years of tuition and fees, room and board, books, and a semester abroad. The remaining participants received partial scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 annually.
The competition challenged participants to identify current economic, social, or cultural issues and collaborate to develop actionable solutions. The students were placed in five groups and spent the day developing presentations that included problem descriptions, supporting data, reasons for addressing the issue, and proposed solutions. At the end of the day, each group gave a five-minute presentation in front of an audience.
The competition encourages prospective students interested in philanthropic leadership to think about how to make their passion their profession. “Pitch Your Passion taught me how to communicate my ideas in a way that really connects with people. Working with others who care about making a difference showed me how important collaboration is when trying to create real change,” said Adalynn Oberndorfer, Thomasson Scholarship recipient from Kansas. “It gave me the smallest glimpse of what I can do and a better understanding of how to turn passion into action.”
They also learn about life as a student at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. "Pitch Your Passion offers high school and college students the chance to connect with peers who share their commitment to making a positive impact," said Pamela Clark, assistant dean for enrollment management and student success. "Collaborating with current and former students provides participants a preview of attending our school."
Not only does it offer a glimpse into college life, it provides an experience that builds confidence and prepares students for the journey ahead. “The greatest thing I learned from Pitch Your Passion is to not be afraid to be yourself and step out of your comfort zone when faced with new people and experiences,” said Jena Bartnik, Thomasson Scholarship recipient from Wisconsin. “As an incoming Lilly Family School of Philanthropy student, I am most looking forward to joining a tight knit group of dedicated students who share my passion of making the world a better place for all.”
“Pitch Your Passion taught me that I am capable of achieving success regardless of my background and that I have the power to turn my dreams into reality. It reinforced my confidence in my ability to create meaningful change and make a lasting impact,” said Kelin Peraza-Argueta, Thomasson Scholarship recipient from Indiana. “My goal is to create a nonprofit that expands access to professional development, mentorship, and real-world skill-building, helping first-gen students navigate opportunities and achieve success.”
In addition to the group presentations, students were evaluated on their grades, extracurricular activities and interests, academic and career goals, and on an individual interview with a committee of the school’s faculty and staff.
This annual competition is open to current IUI undergraduate students (with fewer than 60 credits) who plan to major in Philanthropic Leadership, transfer students, and high school seniors who have been admitted to IUI.
About the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy 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, Mays Family Institute on Diverse Philanthropy, Women’s Philanthropy Institute, and the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative. Follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, or Instagram and “Like” us on Facebook.