Understanding the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy Community of Fellows Program
The IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is offering a unique opportunity for scholars and practitioners to contribute to the field of philanthropy through its Community of Fellows Program. This program aims to bring together creative minds to advance philanthropic knowledge and practice through research, program development, and public engagement. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with projects potentially starting as early as September 2026.
About the Community of Fellows Program
The Community of Fellows Program is an initiative by the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, a leading institution focused on philanthropic education and research. The program invites fellows to work alongside faculty and staff on various projects. These can include research, developing new programs, offering professional education, engaging with donors and practitioners, and organizing public events. Fellows can choose to be either visiting fellows or in-residence fellows, depending on their project and availability. The goal is to produce practical and impactful outcomes that benefit the philanthropy sector.
Key Fellowship Areas
The program seeks fellows to contribute to several strategic areas within philanthropy. Applicants should align their proposed work with one or more of these categories:
Philanthropic Advising
This area focuses on how individuals, families, foundations, and organizations make decisions about giving. Fellows might explore topics like donor strategies, different advisory models, family philanthropy, ethical considerations in advising, the connection between wealth and generosity, and the professional growth of philanthropic advisory services.
Impact Investing
Impact investing is a growing part of philanthropy, using capital to achieve both financial returns and positive social or environmental outcomes. Fellows in this area could examine various investment strategies, how to measure impact, donor motivations, institutional approaches to impact investing, and the relationship between philanthropy and mission-driven finance.
Higher Education and Philanthropy
This category explores the connection between universities and philanthropic activities. Potential projects include research on fundraising, institutional advancement, engaging alumni, university-community partnerships, and the role of higher education in promoting the common good.
Policy and Philanthropy
Policy significantly shapes the landscape of philanthropy. Fellows might investigate laws and regulations, tax policies, public-private partnerships, advocacy efforts by philanthropic organizations, the environment in which nonprofits operate, and how philanthropy influences or responds to public policy.
Sports and Philanthropy
This emerging field looks at how athletes, sports teams, leagues, foundations, and sports organizations engage in charitable giving and social impact. Projects could focus on athlete philanthropy, sports foundations, community development through sports, social justice initiatives, or using sports as a platform for charitable work.
What Fellows Will Do
Selected fellows will collaborate with the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy to advance their chosen projects. The fellowship offers flexibility, allowing for research, program creation, public outreach, and professional development activities. Fellows may be involved in designing and conducting applied research that leads to practical results for the philanthropy sector. They might also help develop training programs, workshops, or learning materials for professionals. Engaging with the school’s extensive networks of practitioners, donors, and scholars is another key activity. Additionally, fellows can help organize or participate in public events like conferences and seminars related to their focus area. The program also encourages innovative project ideas that push the boundaries of traditional research and contribute meaningfully to philanthropy.
Benefits and Resources for Fellows
Fellows will have access to various resources to support their work. This includes affiliation with the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, integration into relevant school teams, and potential travel support for approved purposes. Access to research resources, such as the school’s library, will be provided. A project budget of up to $50,000 may be available for the entire project, and fellows can also use additional external funding they secure. Collaboration with faculty, staff, and extensive donor and practitioner networks is a significant benefit. Fellows gain entry into a globally respected environment for philanthropy education and research. The specific support provided will depend on the fellowship type, project focus, proposed activities, and available resources.
Fellowship Terms and Duration
Fellows can serve as either visiting fellows or in-residence fellows. The duration of a fellowship can range from one month to several months, or up to a full year. The exact length will be determined by the project’s scope, the fellowship category, and the nature of the fellow’s work. Support will come from school resources and any external funding the fellow obtains.
Who Should Apply?
The program welcomes applications from both scholars and practitioners. This means individuals from academic, nonprofit, philanthropic, advisory, policy, investment, sports, and other professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates will have demonstrated expertise through their work or studies, a clear plan for their research or program development, and proposed projects with tangible outcomes. A strong record of collaboration across different sectors and a clear interest in using the school’s resources are also important. Applicants must also have authorization to work in the United States. The proposed work should clearly show how it will advance the field of philanthropy.
Application Requirements
Interested individuals should submit a complete application package to Program Manager Saima Hassan via email at [email protected]. The email subject line should include the fellowship category and “final application.” The required documents are:
Letter of Interest
This letter should be no more than three pages and must describe the fellowship area being applied for, the proposed project, its timeline, and expected results. It should also outline the applicant’s approach to research or program development and explain how the project will benefit the field of philanthropy.
Curriculum Vitae or Professional Résumé
Applicants need to submit a current CV or résumé detailing their academic, professional, research, or practice-based experience.
Writing Samples or Portfolio Materials
Two writing samples or portfolio pieces relevant to the proposed fellowship area are required. These should demonstrate the applicant’s skills, experience, and suitability for the fellowship.
Professional References
Applicants must provide the names and contact information for two professional references.
Application Timeline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting June 1, 2026. Candidates can expect to receive a response within about one month of applying. Projects may begin as early as September 8, 2026. Because applications are reviewed continuously, it is advisable to submit materials early.
Before Applying
Before submitting a formal application, it is highly recommended that applicants contact the program coordinator with informal inquiries. This step allows applicants to demonstrate they have thoroughly reviewed the fellowship details, understand the school’s offerings, have considered how their project fits, and have thought about how they can effectively use the school’s resources. This can help refine proposals before the official submission.
About the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
The IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is the first school globally dedicated to philanthropy education, research, and leadership. Through its academic programs, research, and professional development, the school helps individuals and organizations strengthen and advance the common good. It plays a key role in supporting donors, nonprofits, researchers, practitioners, and leaders working to improve philanthropy and social impact worldwide.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Community of Fellows Program offers more than just a temporary academic or professional position. It provides an opportunity to influence discussions, build knowledge, and create practical tools for the philanthropy sector. This
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy Community of Fellows Program?
It’s a program that brings together scholars and practitioners to work on projects that advance knowledge and practice in philanthropy.
What are the main areas of focus for the fellowship?
Key areas include Philanthropic Advising, Impact Investing, Higher Education and Philanthropy, Policy and Philanthropy, and Sports and Philanthropy.
What kind of support do fellows receive?
Fellows get affiliation with the school, access to research resources, potential travel support, and a project budget of up to $50,000.
When can I apply and when do projects start?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting June 1, 2026, and projects can begin as early as September 8, 2026.
