Through the Philanthropy and Social Change course, Tulane students learn the importance of giving back. As part of the School of Liberal Arts Management Minor (SLAMM), Philanthropy and Social Change educates students on the process of philanthropy through the lens of social justice. Lead by Leslie Scott, an assistant professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance, this semester focused on the significant impact that the performing arts has in communities. Students engaged in both in-class work and a service-learning component that fostered student immersion in 27 different New Orleans community-based arts programs. After submitting requests for proposals to these organizations, the class received 22 applications for a $10,000 grant made possible by the Learning by Giving Foundation.
The culmination of the course was a virtual ceremony where the grant was awarded to the local not-for-profit performing arts studio Silhouette Dance Ensemble. Dedicated to extracurricular programing for those most in need, the organization focuses on enrichment for individuals, families, and the greater New Orleans community. Kai Knight, the founder and executive director of Silhouette Dance Ensemble attended the event thinking she would be offering a lecture to students but was instead pleasantly surprised with the $10,000 grant.
Learn more about this unique course and watch the fall 2021 award ceremony here:
View past stories about Philanthropy and Social Change:
Philanthropy is more than ‘throwing money at a problem’ - November 3, 2017
Learning to Give - January 17, 2017
Students to get $50,000 lesson in philanthropy - February 24, 2015