Alumni Education Initiative:
Strategic Philanthropy and Nonprofit Board Governance

Tuesday September 16 & Wednesday September 17, 2008
6:00 – 8:00 PM
The Rockefeller Foundation
420 Fifth Ave (between 37th & 38th St), New York, NY

Columbia Business School graduates will be called upon to contribute to society at some point during their lives. This fall, the Social Enterprise Program is launching an Alumni Education Initiative to engage graduates in ongoing education and dialogue about topics in field of social enterprise.

The program will take place over two consecutive evenings. The sessions will focus on issues of strategic philanthropy and nonprofit board governance, which are critical to alumni who interact with nonprofit organizations as board members and as donors. Two outstanding faculty in these fields will lead this program: Ray Fisman, Lambert Family Professor of Social Enterprise and Research Director of the Social Enterprise Program; and Melissa Berman, CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.

Professor Fisman will focus on nonprofit board governance, and address the essential components to being an effective and productive board member. His session will also yield broader lessons about managing and leading nonprofit organizations. Participants will explore questions including:

  • How are nonprofits governed?
  • What is the role of the board in helping organizations achieve their missions?
  • What are the common pitfalls for board members in achieving these goals?

Drawing upon her extensive experience at Rockefeller Philanthropic Advisors, Professor Berman will lead a session entitled “The Philanthropy Roadmap.” Her session will help participants develop a strategic approach to their philanthropy, including methods to assess results and maximize the impact of their giving programs. Issues that will be addressed include:

  • What internal forces drive you to give?
  • What issues in the world around us tug at both your heart and your head?
  • How do you want your desired change to happen?
  • How do you want to get involved? 

The cost of this program is $350. The number of participants is restricted to foster greater interaction amongst attendees and our distinguished faculty.