Navigating the Philanthropy Landscape: A Green Book Guide for Charitable Giving in Higher Education

• In Event: The Possibilities of "Green Book" Approach to Higher Education

Abstract

This paper considers the pitfalls and challenges in soliciting, giving, and receiving private gifts that could benefit Black students and those who decide to give. We present three approaches toward participating in higher education philanthropy for Black constituents. Each approach is framed within the context of historical problems associated with philanthropic activities and could adversely impact Black people in higher education. First, recognize that the rhetoric colleges and universities use to promote philanthropic engagement is broad and meant to appeal to many donors. In other words, establish early on that you want to support Black students, faculty, and staff and that you want to do that responsibly within the parameters of university rules and policies. Second, ensure that you know who has benefited from your generosity. Doing so builds trust and accountability between the donor and their institution. Finally, get ahead of political trends that might curtail your philanthropic engagement. Through legislation and executive orders, state legislators and executives can influence or deliberately dictate how gift agreements are articulated and who benefits from the gift. These political actions potentially prohibit the institution from receiving gifts that would help Black students and professionals and, for donors, limit their capacity to help others from their communities.

Author

• Everrett A. Smith, University of Cincinnati