Recap of the 2024 Beyond the Desk Course

Recently, we wrapped up the 2024 Beyond the Desk course, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with its success. Each fall semester for the past three years, The Patterson Foundation has taught a course at The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, offering students a unique opportunity to explore TPF’s distinct approach to philanthropy. Unlike a typical foundation, TPF operates in innovative ways, making a significant impact.

Although this year’s class size was smaller than in previous years, the exchange of knowledge and engagement among students and TPFers was remarkable. Each class left me feeling encouraged and grateful to learn from individuals at various stages of their careers in philanthropy. It was inspiring to witness how quickly the students absorbed and connected the dots on TPF’s principles (“TPFisms”) and approach, applying them to their own lives and experiences.

The course’s success would not have been possible without the students’ commitment to showing up with open minds, a willingness to learn, and the drive to apply these lessons to their roles. This achievement also stems from the invaluable contributions of several TPFers, including Debra Jacobs, Andrew Spector, Donna Puhalovich, and guest lecturers Cheri Coryea and Beth Duda. Each played a role in enriching the students’ experience and the course’s success.

To give you a sense of the course’s impact, here’s a reflection from one student:

“A tremendous thank you to the staff for their time and dedication to our class. I appreciated the enthusiasm of the staff and their commitment to helping us understand the materials. It makes me want to consider a position working with a foundation.”

We look forward to the continued opportunity to build meaningful connections through this experience.