The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University is a leading academic center dedicated to increasing the understanding of philanthropy and improving its practice through research, teaching, public service and public affairs. Founded in 1987, the Center is a part of the Indiana University School of Liberal Arts at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
The Center was founded as the result of the convergence of two ideas. First, some people recognized the need to professionalize fundraising and to create a permanent, university-based home for The Fund Raising School. Others were interested in building knowledge about the philanthropy field through an inter-disciplinary approach grounded in the liberal arts. These ideas, and the goal of bringing scholars and practitioners together to learn from each other, are the founding principles that remain the bedrock of our mission.
Today, the Center boasts a thriving research program that informs the work of nonprofit professionals throughout the world. Academic programs related to philanthropy and nonprofit management are attracting from a diverse group of highly talented students. And The Fund Raising School continues to be the premier international university-based education and training program for fundraisers.
