Purdue University Northwest faculty member named to Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute

Purdue University Northwest faculty member named to Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute

Mary Jane Eisenhauer, interim associate director of the School of Education and Counseling and professor of early childhood education at Purdue University Northwest, has been selected as a member of the inaugural class of the Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute. She successfully completed a competitive application process to gain one of 24 spots in this year’s class. 

Launched by Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) in 2021, the Mutz Institute provides a leadership training experience to skill-up professionals serving in board and executive roles at foundations, corporations and social impact organizations across Indiana. 

Eisenhauer has served young children and families for more than 20 years as an educator, advocate, researcher, consultant, and teacher educator. She earned her Ed.D. in Curriculum & Social Inquiry – Early Childhood Development from National Louis University, and master’s degree in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University. She volunteers with the Porter County Community Foundation and the United Way. She lives in Beverly Shores with her family.

“I am excited about this opportunity to work with leaders from around the state to expand my understanding of philanthropy. I am especially interested in exploring the intersection of philanthropy and early learning to share that with my colleagues at PNW and throughout Northwest Indiana,” commented Eisenhauer.

“We are living through one of the most taxing times in our history, and Indiana must have a new wave of sharp minds across the entire philanthropic sector who are prepared to make substantial impact—ranging from education to economic development,” said Claudia Cummings, IPA president and CEO. “Those selected for the Mutz Institute demonstrate strong character, are dedicated to service in their community, and will ensure future excellence in our field.” 

The Mutz Institute is named for former Indiana Lieutenant Governor, past Lilly Endowment Inc. president, IPA founder, corporate CEO and Indiana visionary John M. Mutz.

“The Mutz Institute will serve as a pipeline for the transformational philanthropic leaders Indiana needs now and in coming times,” said Jamie Merisotis, CEO of Lumina Foundation, one of the program supporters.

For a full listing of those accepted into the class of 2021 Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute, see them here.

About Indiana Philanthropy Alliance

The Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) is a powerful network of foundations, corporations and other social investors working together to lead change, improve lives and lift communities through effective philanthropy. Members hold $21 billion in assets, make over $850 million per year in grants and are located in all 92 Indiana counties. In 2020, IPA celebrated 30 years as a nonprofit membership association.

The Mutz Institute is a program of the IPA. Classes begin in January and meet once a month until October. For more information, visit www.inphilanthropy.org/Mutz.