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Kathryn Dilworth

Professor of Practice: Philanthropy, AI, Information Studies, and Writing Instruction

John Martinson Honors College, Purdue University

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Education

B.A. University of Mississippi, M.A. University of Alabama Huntsville, Ph.D. Indiana University

Recent Publications

Kathryn Dilworth is a Professor of Practice for Philanthropy, AI, Information Studies, and Writing Instruction in the John Martinson Honors College, where she leads student-centered research on nonprofit leadership, generative AI, and civic institutions. Her interdisciplinary work explores how emerging technologies (especially generative AI) can support original thinking, effective communication, and civic leadership in the nonprofit sector and beyond.

Dr. Dilworth teaches a suite of innovative courses, including:

  • Nonprofit and Philanthropy: (HONR 299) A survey course on why people give and how the nonprofit sector functions (registration available to all Purdue students through Purdue Online)
  • Interdisciplinary Approaches to Writing: Writing for Nonprofits with AI
  • Research Thinking: A capstone-style course guiding students through the complete research process
  • First-Year Experience: Nonprofit Scandals
  • Exploring Place: An investigation of how institutions in a single city or town shape civil society

Dr. Dilworth leads collaborative student research initiatives that result in both scholarly products and applied tools. Her AI research team is currently preparing a generative writing tool for market use in higher education and nonprofit settings. Her philanthropy research with undergraduates focuses on:

  • The impact of philanthropy instruction on understanding and trust in the nonprofit sector
  • The legacy of Victorian women’s philanthropy in shaping today’s nonprofit landscape
  • Toxicity and workplace dynamics in the nonprofit field
  • The Connectors: A study of how fundraisers influence philanthropic trends

A former nonprofit leader and philanthropic advisor, she brings decades of experience into the classroom, mentoring students who are committed to making an impact across sectors. Her work is grounded in the belief that scholarship and practice must evolve together to prepare future professionals for leadership in a rapidly changing world.

 

Download Current CV

Contact Info

1083 North
kdilwort@purdue.edu