From philanthropy student to nonprofit executive director

Across the country and around the world, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy alumni hold leadership positions in the nonprofit sector. Recently, to further enhance its bachelor’s program and better demonstrate the value of a philanthropy degree, the school has made key changes to the undergraduate program – including a name change for the degree and minor, from Philanthropic Studies to Philanthropic Leadership.

One of those graduates demonstrating the value of a philanthropy degree and serving in a leadership role is alumna Madison Hanna, B.A. ‘22. She is the executive director of the Putnam County (Indiana) Chamber of Commerce. The chamber serves the county by promoting, supporting, and retaining businesses in the community.

Service to a nonprofit is not new to Hanna. “My earliest memory of philanthropy is volunteering with Habitat for Humanity in Pittsburgh alongside my dad when I was about four years old. I remember handing out meals to volunteers and homeowners,” said Hanna. “That experience left a lasting impact and sparked my passion for giving back.”

As a student at Indiana University Indianapolis, Hanna had a lot of degree options. She says she selected philanthropy because it offered a limitless path. A path that she could make meaningful to her. “I knew I wanted a career focused on helping people, and this degree aligned perfectly with my passion for making an impact,” said Hanna. Just like Hanna, other alumni have followed their passion and are working in areas such as the arts, the environment, social justice, and veteran causes.

For Hanna, the skills she learned at the school have benefited her in her career. “My degree has been incredibly helpful in my current role, influencing everything from how I approach organizational strategies to running board meetings and even how I contribute my time,” said Hanna. “It’s given me the tools to navigate the nonprofit sector effectively.”

One of the advantages that she found at the school may be unexpected for a university. “The small class sizes and personalized education made a huge difference,” said Hanna. “I never felt like just a number; I always felt a strong connection to my professors and peers.” Hanna went on to say the faculty and staff made a difference in her time as a student. “The professors empower students to follow their passions and provide individualized support to help advance your career.”

Not only did she benefit from the on-campus experience, but the practical experience she learned through her internship helped equip her as well. Hanna says her experience interning as a research associate with Influence S|G allowed her to broaden her view of how she could apply her degree. During the internship she presented reports on current social issues, which gave her a practical application of her studies.

She offers this advice to students, “I would encourage them to find causes they’re passionate about and get involved in those spaces. When you care deeply about a cause, both your studies and your work will feel more purposeful,” said Hanna. “I would just encourage prospective students to take full advantage of internships and volunteer work. Finding what drives you is key to making the most of your education and career in philanthropy.”