Charitable giving in the United States reached nearly $593 billion in 2024, an expenditure that approaches how much Americans spend on new housing and illustrates the significance of giving in the contemporary economy. Now, a new book from TC’s Noah Drezner — Professor of Higher Education, and Vice Dean of Academic Success and Strategy — unlocks new insights on the dynamics of philanthropy in education. 

“Philanthropy towards education holds a crucial role in shaping and advancing societies, through nurturing individual growth, expanding research and fostering innovation,” writes Drezner in Advancing Research in Philanthropy and Education. 

In the interdisciplinary volume, Drezner assembles expertise on trends in donor demographics and procurement, the emergence of educational philanthropy in Asia, and advancements in research methodology. For Drezner, advancing expertise in who, how, and why people give is critical: “Understanding these diverse motivations and interests is crucial for effectively harnessing the potential of educational philanthropy to address societal need and promote educational equity.” 

In examining current trends and challenges, Drezner and his colleagues “affirm the indispensable role of philanthropy in fostering educational excellence and global equity” while also “setting the stage for future research and practice.” 

Contributors to the book include former students like Chase McNamee (Ed.D. ’22), an advancement professional at the University of Denver who began collaborating with Drezner in 2016 and still sees Drezner as a mentor. 

“Working with Noah has been life-changing…To start out as a doctoral student and then be part of the work as a contributor is incredible,” says McNamee, who authored the book’s chapter on alumni engagement and inclusive philanthropy, and sees the book as an opportunity to shed light on how the field is misunderstood. 

“We’re there as partners to the university, and all faculty, staff and students, to connect people with ways they can give their time, treasure and talent,” explains McNamee. “Advancement exists in partnership with higher education institutions, but we are a field with our own knowledge base, research findings, etc. that can help inform the field.” 

With Advancing Research in Philanthropy and Education and the ongoing work of The Tzedakah Lab and his journal Philanthropy & Education, Drezner and his colleagues are charting the future of educational philanthropy. By bridging scholarship and practice, the book highlights new ways of understanding giving — not only as a financial act, but as a force for advancing access, equity, and innovation worldwide. Featuring contributions from colleagues and former students, the volume reflects Drezner’s commitment to mentorship and collaboration while underscoring Teachers College’s leadership in shaping the study and practice of philanthropy in education.