The Dynamics of Philanthropy: Racialization, Representation, and Research Equity

Session Type: Paper Session

Abstract

This session explores philanthropy in education through four papers that examine racialized power, knowledge infrastructure, representation theory, and educational innovation. The first paper uses critical ethnography to show how community-based nonprofits navigate relationships with private donors, revealing the performative nature of securing funding. The second investigates a foundation’s knowledge infrastructure, highlighting how research is produced and shared. The third critiques strategic philanthropy in public education through the lens of nonprofit representation theory, stressing the need for authentic representation. The final paper critiques the portrayal of Da Vinci RISE High School, comparing its idealized image with the realities of its vulnerable student population. Together, these papers address the challenges of equitable philanthropy in today’s sociopolitical context.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Philanthropy and Education

Papers

• A Spectacle by Design: A Racialized Performance for Donor Dollars - Abbie Cohen, Colby College

• Is Representational Philanthropy Possible? Evidence From a Review of Strategic Philanthropy’s Grant Making in Education - Jeremy Martin, University of California - Berkeley

• Developing a Knowledge Infrastructure to Support Equitable Research Production and Dissemination: A Case Study - Joel R. Malin, Miami University (OH); Caitlin Farrell, University of Colorado - Boulder; Lok-Sze Wong, University of North Texas; Dominique Brooks, University of North Texas; Elizabeth N. Farley-Ripple, University of Delaware; Jennifer Watling Neal, Michigan State University; Samantha Jo Shewchuk, University of Delaware; Brian Brutzman, Michigan State University

• Relationships as Revolutionary: Evaluating XQ’s Vision of Innovation at RISE High School - Brett Gardiner Murphy, Graduate Center - CUNY