Blog

Fresh perspectives from the world of philanthropy

Looking for the latest research and trends in philanthropy? Seeking context or new ideas for addressing perennial challenges nonprofits face? Need insights into how and why people give? Wondering about people, projects and professional options at our school?

Graphic word cloud of phrases and words associated with blog

Our blog offers fresh perspectives into all of these and more, sharing interesting and relevant information in an easy-to-read format. It’s your invitation to discover, explore, discuss, learn about, analyze, and understand more about philanthropy and how it is changing and growing.

Please join us regularly to engage in thought-provoking conversations and explore all things philanthropy.

Follow our blog

Lilly School of Philanthropy Blog feed

Lilly Family School Alum Michelle Walker Joins The Patterson Foundation as Newest Fellow

The Patterson Foundation is proud to welcome Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy master’s graduate Michelle Walker as its newest Fellow. Starting in March 2026, Walker will apply her professional experience and education during a two-plus-year engagement in Sarasota, Florida. Introduced in 2018, The Patterson Foundation Fellowship is a full-time opportunity for graduates of... Read more about 'Lilly Family School Alum Michelle Walker Joins The Patterson Foundation as Newest Fellow' »

Initiative aims to envision and advance higher ed’s future

Higher education, including its purposes and roles, is being buffeted by a number of forces and undergoing scrutiny on multiple fronts, even as it seeks to meet key needs in society and individual lives. “The great social compromise that emerged after World War II affirming the role of the university –to cultivate knowledge and educate... Read more about 'Initiative aims to envision and advance higher ed’s future' »

Communications role led to graduate studies in philanthropy

Abby Rolland M.A.’20 was introduced to giving at an early age through volunteering and her family’s charitable activities. But it wasn’t until she started writing about philanthropy that she discovered a new career path that reshaped her professional life. Rolland earned her undergraduate degree in history, originally planning to become an archivist, curator, or history... Read more about 'Communications role led to graduate studies in philanthropy' »

Envisioning Philanthropy Through Community: 3 Lessons from the NYU Wagner Convening on Community Philanthropy’s Opportunities to Build Inclusive Communities

By Ayo Adeyeri and Iman Fathima Community philanthropic organizations have historically been pivotal actors in bringing about lasting change, and today many are revisiting traditional funding models to ensure the same. Last week, we attended the Convening on Community Philanthropy’s Opportunities to Build Inclusive Communities, presented by Justice Philanthropy Research Network and hosted at the... Read more about 'Envisioning Philanthropy Through Community: 3 Lessons from the NYU Wagner Convening on Community Philanthropy’s Opportunities to Build Inclusive Communities' »

Readout and Discussion on the Future of Philanthropy in Japan

By Afshan Paarlberg and David Janes After more than a year of ongoing side discussions about philanthropy in Japan, the International House of Japan (IHJ), United States-Japan Foundation, American Friends of the International House of Japan (AFIHJ), the 21st Century Japan Politics and Society Initiative at the IU Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International... Read more about 'Readout and Discussion on the Future of Philanthropy in Japan' »

View all blog entries