Art & Science of Philanthropy event brings together non-profit leaders and scholars
The Art & Science of Philanthropy symposium on March 7, 2025 gathered scholars and nonprofit leaders to explore donor behavior, nonprofit sustainability, and philanthropy’s role in advocacy. Organized by the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs, the event was led by faculty members Jennifer Mayo, Brian Kisida, and Lael Keiser.
“The goal of the conference was to bring together nonprofit leaders, students, and researchers - it’s not often that we’re all in the same room together, with the opportunity to discuss research and share ideas,” stated Dr. Mayo. The event featured presentations and a panel discussion on topics that apply directly to the work of non-profits, including the real-world application of research. The conference provided valuable insights into the evolving nonprofit landscape, offering research-backed strategies for sustaining donor engagement and balancing financial stability with mission fulfillment. Attendees found the practical discussions about enhancing philanthropic effectiveness particularly relevant.
Nathan Hansen of Columbia area non-profit Love Columbia shared, “This was a great conference, being able to engage and interact with researchers was something new and appreciated.”
Dr. Keiser, Director of the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs, stated, "These events help shape our research, but we also hope the research helps our community and state by making our nonprofit colleagues more effective in their work."
The event was made possible through generous support from Jeffrey Byrne, BA ’83, and his company BPS Philanthropic Advisors, which provides services to non-profits seeking to grow fundraising efforts.
PRESENTATIONS AND PANEL DISCUSSIONS
Key Insights on Donor Behavior and Nonprofit Sustainability
Summary, Session 1 - Understanding Donor Motivations
Dr. Sara Konrath, Indiana University Indianapolis/Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, highlighted how emotional connections, social identity, and personal values influence giving, encouraging nonprofits to tailor their fundraising strategies effectively. Dr. Michael Price, University of Alabama, examined economic uncertainty’s impact on donor behavior, noting that while some reduce giving in unstable times, others respond to crises with increased generosity. Dr. ChiaKo Hung, University of Pennsylvania, addressed "overhead aversion," the donor reluctance to fund administrative costs, emphasizing the need for nonprofits to have transparency with their operational expenses to donors and potential donors.
Summary Session 2 - Challenges in the Nonprofit Sector
Dr. Jeremy Thornton, Samford University, explored the risks of "mission drift" as nonprofits adopt commercial revenue strategies, highlighting the importance of balancing financial sustainability with mission integrity. Dr. Mirae Kim, George Mason University, discussed how private philanthropy shapes nonprofit advocacy, sometimes creating dependencies that challenge organizational autonomy. Dr. Jesse Lecy, Arizona State University, shared insights on how local environments help cultivate a nonprofit sector.
Panel Discussion
Between the two-research presentation session was a local nonprofit leaders’ roundtable chaired by Jeffrey Byrne with insights from CoMo Mobile Aid Collective, Love Columbia, Heart of Missouri CASA, The Center Project, and Habitat for Humanity. They shared their challenges and successes as well as insights and experiences with recent changes in society and the role they play with the increasing demand on their social services.