Philanthropic Studies is a vibrant area of interdisciplinary and international scholarship, teaching, and professional practice with relevance to many academic disciplines and fields that include political science, sociology, journalism, media studies, government, third sector studies, history, and public affairs, among many others. Yet even though “philanthropy is everywhere” as experts have noted, its influence in setting and advancing agendas for social and policy change is often invisible to many. The goal of this course is to make the philanthropic sectors in the U.S. and around the world visible to students with an interest public affairs issues like climate change, international development, human and civil rights, economic development, hunger, poverty, education, government, public health, mental health, technology in society, migration/immigration, peace and security, social/gender/racial justice, and voting rights. Shifting attention to a focus on funding rather than fundraising, the course features the critical roles program officers play behind the scenes in shaping philanthropic investments that seek to address a wide range of societal problems and challenges.
Course Testimonials:
"One of the most enlightening takeaways was understanding the relationship between the non-profit, private, and public sectors in philanthropy. I came into the class thinking that philanthropy was solely the domain of the non-profit sector. However, through research on areas of interest and listening to various speakers, I learned how these three sectors can and need to work together synergistically to drive social change. Understanding this interconnectedness expanded my view of how comprehensive and collaborative efforts can enhance the effectiveness of philanthropic initiatives." – Sandra Banda, 2nd year MPAff candidate at the LBJ School of Public Affairs
"The Role of Philanthropy in Social/Policy Change course helped me gain a more sophisticated appreciation for the intricate ways philanthropic organizations support social change. From convening stakeholders to direct thought partnership, from frontline services and direct action to long-term strategic planning—the course explored how philanthropy, utilizing a lot more levers than just money, operates to make social change possible. Additionally, students come out with practical work products that they can use as a starting point to pursue their professional or research interests beyond the duration of the course. The more you put in it, the more you get out of it." – Felipe Barroso, 2nd year PhD student, Community and Regional Planning, School of Architecture
"Dr. Lentz artfully educated graduate students on identifying a "Theory of Change" relevant to their research, incorporating various philanthropic funding experts in the course schedule, allowing our direct experiences and insights to help prepare students to successfully present their research to different funders for award purposes.Leaving the class, my mind was filled with new approaches to achieving systemic and lasting social change. This program course is wonderful for those who genuinely want to make a difference and move the needle, rather than just sustaining philanthropy as a sector." – Nehemiah Pitts III, Digital Empowerment Community of Austin (DECA) Leader, Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission (CTTC), and community observer in the spring 2024 course