Queering Philanthropy: Understanding Giving Among LGBTQQI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Intersex) Alumni

• In Event: Identity and Postsecondary Campus Climate

Abstract

This paper summarizes findings from a multi-institutional constructivist case study investigating the culture of philanthropic participation in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (LGBTQQI) alumni communities. The study involved a comprehensive review and synthesis of relevant literature, followed by a four-tiered approach: (1) Advancement Officers Interviews and Focus Groups; (2) Institutional Document Analysis; (3) LGBTQQI alumni group document analysis, and; (4) LGBTQQI alumni interviews and focus groups. Results of the study revealed that LGBTQQI alumni often chose to support LGBTQQI-related student initiatives, base donation decisions on current campus climate for LGBTQQI students, faculty, and staff, and experience frustration and marginalization with data coding and collection.

Authors

• Noah Daniel Drezner, University of Maryland - College Park

• Jason C. Garvey, University of Maryland