Michael Moody, Ph.D.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Indiana University, Dr. Moody was one of the first employees of the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University where he helped develop the Jane Addams Fellows program. He went on to receive a master’s degree in social science from the University of Chicago and a doctorate in sociology from Princeton University, with a research focus on philanthropic giving and nonprofit organizations.

 

Dr. Moody was a university professor for nine years, first at Boston University and then the University of Southern California, where he was a faculty fellow at the USC Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy.  From 2008-2010 he was President of Moody Philanthropic Consulting, LLC, based in Richmond, VA, providing research and writing, project development, advising, and related services.

 

He is co-author (with Robert L. Payton) of the book, Understanding Philanthropy: Its Meaning and Mission (Indiana University Press, 2008), a book highlighting the vital but often neglected importance of philanthropy in our lives, and outlining a conceptual framework for thinking about the role philanthropy plays in any society. Dr. Moody has also done extensive research and writing on topics such as venture philanthropy, donor education, the challenge of ethical giving, diversity among foundation executives, “giving back” as an explanation for philanthropy, and how nonprofits advocate for the public good. 

 

As the Frey Chair at the Johnson Center, Dr. Moody works with a network of national advisors and partners to pursue a comprehensive program of applied research, teaching, professional development, and public service, all designed to advance and promote the field of family philanthropy in the United States.