Creating a Culture of Student Philanthropy to Address Financial Challenges in Universities

Abstract

Concerns about the cost of higher education and student loan debt have resulted in increasing efforts by policymakers and university administrators to find alternative ways to support the financing of higher education for students. The authors present a case study of a student-led philanthropy campaign to generate funding for social work student scholarships. Three-year outcomes reveal that student and faculty participation rates reached 53% and 100%, respectively. An average student gift of $15.03 nearly tripled to $43.21 one year postgraduation. The campaign illustrates how grassroots fundraising can help unburden future social workers while improving sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.

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Notes on contributors

Kathleen J. Pottick

Kathleen J. Pottick is professor and former dean (acting) at Rutgers School of Social Work (2011–2013).

Stephanie Giordano

Stephanie Giordano is director of development at Rutgers University Foundation.

Danielle E. Chirico

Danielle E. Chirico is development assistant at Rutgers University.