Dr. Elizabeth J. Dale, Associate Professor of Nonprofit Leadership was awarded the 2021 Emerging Scholar Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). The award, established by the AFP Research Council in 2013, honors an early-career scholar or scholar-practitioner whose research has and will continue to shape the discourse on philanthropy and fundraising.

Dr. Dale focuses her research on two central questions: “How do people try to improve the world through philanthropic giving?” and “How do gender and sexual orientation influence the philanthropic experience?” Through these questions she examines the field of nonprofit and philanthropic studies to, in her words, “expand our notion of who is considered a donor,” focusing on gender and philanthropy; the LGBTQ community and giving; and diversity, equity and inclusion in fundraising.

“As a former fundraiser and now researcher, I want to show how giving emerges from the complexity of personal experiences, how donor diversity can enhance giving, and identify how donors and fundraisers can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society,” said Dr. Dale.

“I am honored to receive this award and appreciate the critical role AFP can play in promoting high-quality research to its members,” mentioned Dr. Dale. “I’m grateful for this recognition and opportunity to contribute to bettering the fundraising profession.”

“Dr. Dale has provided new and impactful insight into a variety of areas including women in fundraising, LGBTQ donors and planned giving,” said Russell N. James III, J.D., Ph.D., CFP, chair of the Emerging Scholar Prize Jury. “Her contributions to our sector help to advance equity and justice while making us better fundraisers.”