In a recent speech, entitled "On Scholarship and Philanthropy," Georgetown English Professor John Glavin calls out the relationship between scholarship and philanthropy. He cites three particular points of intersection: disinterest, risk, and hope. Prof. Glavin notes, "They are the key markers for scholars and philanthropists alike..."
On DISINTEREST, he explains how both scholars and philanthropists "act out of distinterest...Disinterest not as a lack of interest but as an un-self-regarding commitment to change as the only ground of growth." He points out that the process of learning and true discovery "demands disinterest from both the scholars who think the new, and the philanthropists who support them."
As for RISK, he observes that a philanthropist's love of risk is evident in the willingness to invest often substantial assets on a venture that offers the promise of greatness, but may just as likely not succeed. "The risk every genuine scholar takes when she or he steps into an archive or a lab, venturing all on an educated hunch and a dream that might at any moment dissolve into mere chimera." Indeed, the mark of a great outcome - for both the philanthropist who funds the initiative and the scholar who takes it on - often is measured by the degree of risk associated with the initiative.
Lastly, he addresses the significance of HOPE - and reminds us that the folks who toil as scholars and those who lead lives dedicated to philanthropy are "persons of hope." While so often we hear from so many to live in the moment, the present, the here n' now, Prof. Glavin offers encouragement that those with their focus on the future are the folks who will shape the next great moments. He cites an 1889 address at Georgetown by Martin Morris, who pointed out 120 years ago, "That which springs up in the night can also vanish like an exhalation before the morning sun. Enduring works take long beginnings."
So, if you're a scholar - it's a good time of year to thank a philanthropist who has helped you in the past - or is helping you right now - to teach, foster learning, and discover paths to a better future. If you're a philanthropist - or want to become one - it's a good time of year to make a gift that can make a difference right now and for the future - at your alma mater or wherever you have the strongest desire to leave your mark.
Happy Holiday!
