Author John R. Thelin: John R. Thelin is University Research Professor, History of Higher Education & Public Policy, University of KentuckyAuthor Richard W. Trollinger: Richard W. Trollinger is Vice President for college relations, Centre College, Danville, KY

"Thelin and Trollinger are among the very few historical scholars with the experience and expertise to construct a history of philanthropy and the capacity to analyze the role of philanthropy in the evolution of American higher education. We need to understand how philanthropists and philanthropy have influenced the development of our colleges and universities in order to develop a more critical and thoughtful attitude toward the role of giving in setting higher education policy." - Stanley N. Katz, recipient of the National Humanities Medal; Lecturer with rank of Professor in Public and International Affairs at Princeton University, USA, and Director, Princeton University Center for Arts and Cultural Policy Studies, The Woodrow Wilson School, Princeton University "Thelin and Trollinger have given us a wonderful introduction to the history and issues related to philanthropy and the role of philanthropy in higher education. This book will provide useful background information for future college presidents, higher education fundraising executives, and those involved in managing college and university endowments." - Eugene Tempel, Founding Dean, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, Indiana University, USA

• 1. Connecting Past and Present: Historical Background on American Philanthropy and Higher Education 2. Giving and Receiving: Major Philosophical Concepts and Theoretical Issues in Philanthropy 3. Philanthropists and Their Foundations 4. Endowments: Colleges and the Stewardship of Good Fortune 5. Government Relations and the Nonprofit Sector: Legislation and Policies in Philanthropy and Higher Education 6. Professionalization of Philanthropy: Fund Raising and Development 7. Colleges and Their Constituencies: New Directions in Philanthropy