What motivates major donors to give? How do universities secure transformative philanthropic support? And what role does philanthropy play in shaping the future of higher education?

Drawing on a distinguished programme of international research, Professors Mairi Maclean and Charles Harvey will explore the changing relationship between wealth, philanthropy, and universities. Their work on entrepreneurial philanthropy, which they define as “the pursuit by entrepreneurs on a not-for-profit basis of big social objectives through active investment of their economic, cultural, social and symbolic resources”, has helped to reshape understanding of how wealthy individuals use philanthropy to leave a lasting mark on society.

Higher education has become one of the principal beneficiaries of this new era of large-scale giving. As wealth has become increasingly concentrated and philanthropic fortunes have grown, universities have expanded their ambitions and fundraising capabilities, seeking philanthropic investment to support world-class research, transformative student opportunities, and the development of campuses and facilities. In response, advancement has evolved into a highly professionalised field, with universities competing for the attention and support of a relatively small number of major donors.

In this session, Maclean and Harvey will share insights from their latest research into what distinguishes successful university fundraising, how relationships with major donors are built and sustained, and how advancement professionals help shape the public identities and legacies of wealthy philanthropists. The seminar will offer a fresh perspective on how philanthropy is reshaping the relationship between wealth, reputation, influence, and institutional success in contemporary higher education.