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Dr. Jennifer A. Taylor is a dynamic thought leader, changemaker, and Associate Professor of Public Administration and Policy at James Madison University. With over 20 years of distinguished experience in higher education, public service, nonprofit governance, and social impact leadership, Dr. Taylor is recognized for her transformative contributions to the field.

She holds a Ph.D. in Urban Policy and Public Administration from Old Dominion University, a Master’s degree in Arts Policy and Administration from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from the University of South Carolina.

Dr. Taylor’s expertise spans nonprofit governance, fundraising, organizational strategy, and diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility (DEIJA). Over her career, she has raised more than $20 million through innovative fundraising campaigns and successfully influenced government policies to advance issues such as military family support and nonprofit capacity building.

A published scholar and educator, Dr. Taylor’s work includes books and peer-reviewed articles on philanthropy, nonprofit governance, and social impact. Her recent publications include Rage Giving (2022, Cambridge University Press) and the forthcoming Leading with Love: Love, Leadership, and the Path to a Renewed America. She has received numerous accolades for her teaching and research, including the President’s Purple Star Award for Community Service & Volunteerism and the Hall Outstanding Faculty/Staff Achievement Award.

At James Madison University Dr. Taylor designs and leads innovative courses in public administration and public policy, social equity, and philanthropy, preparing future leaders to create meaningful social change. She is passionate about mentorship and has directed thousands of hours of student service learning, led graduate programs to national rankings, and significantly increased diversity among student cohorts.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Taylor serves as the Founder and CEO of We Grow Social Impact, a professional education platform for nonprofit leaders. She is also a sought-after speaker, consultant, and executive coach, with a podcast and global network dedicated to advancing nonprofit and social change strategies.

Dr. Taylor’s professional affiliations include the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the Association of Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA), and numerous arts, veterans, and community organizations.

In her free time, Dr. Taylor enjoys exploring public art, engaging with her southern roots, and spending time with her family and service dog, Kepler.