Nonprofit Leadership: Topics

Catalog description

Philanthropy plays a unique role in advancing social change. Unlike business, there is no requirement to generate a financial return to owners, and unlike government (in a democracy), individual donors and institutional funders cannot be voted out. Given philanthropy’s role, what tactics and strategies can philanthropy use for social change? This class will examine key issues in contemporary philanthropy, exploring the sector from a variety of vantage points. Several classes will feature philanthropic leaders who will be invited to introduce and discuss philanthropic innovations, methodologies, and strategic shifts. Potential topics include philanthropy in history; philanthropic networks and coalitions; leveraging capital for systemic change in staffed foundations; non-profits and the law; lobbying and sector independence; aligning investments and mission; the growth of DAFs, LLCs, and other structures for giving; the possibilities and pitfalls of long-term grants. The course also highlights the structural aspects of managing a mission-driven organization, including regulatory, legal, structural vehicles, impact investments, and policy matters.