Host: May Harris, Esq.

Guest: Dr. Laura Dietrick, University of San Diego

“If you see a problem in your neighborhood, you don't have to wait for the government to solve it. You can partner with a nonprofit. You can start a nonprofit to change your community.”

— Dr. Laura Dietrick

Leading with Purpose: Nonprofit Leadership in Action

What does it really take to lead a nonprofit well? In this episode, May Harris welcomes Dr. Laura Dietrick from the Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego to explore the realities of nonprofit leadership. From organizational impact to student training, they discuss how leadership is developed, what makes the sector unique, and how education plays a powerful role in shaping the next generation of nonprofit changemakers.

In This Episode

A time-stamped guide to what you’ll hear.

• [00:00] Dr. Laura shares her role at the University of San Diego and her work with the Nonprofit Institute

• [04:43] Understanding how nonprofits function as organizations and economic contributors

• [07:02] Debunking the myth that nonprofits are only about altruism, and why impact must lead the narrative

• [16:00] Inside the Nonprofit Leadership and Management graduate program

• [22:16] How students gain hands-on experience through real-time nonprofit projects

• [28:26] What types of people thrive in nonprofit roles, and why it’s not the right fit for everyone

Key Takeaways

Insightful moments and lessons from the conversation.

• Leadership deserves compensation. Nonprofit executives play critical roles and should be paid accordingly — just like their for-profit counterparts.

• Talk about impact, not just funding. Donors and stakeholders are drawn to results and mission outcomes, not just financial reporting.

• The sector needs problem-solvers. People who can bridge communities, boards, and causes will thrive in nonprofit leadership.

Guest Bio: Dr. Laura Dietrick

Dr. Laura Dietrick serves as a key faculty leader at the University of San Diego and Director of the Nonprofit Institute, where she helps develop innovative educational experiences that support the growth of purpose-driven professionals. She is a recognized expert in nonprofit leadership, governance, and management, and a passionate advocate for strengthening the social sector through knowledge, research, and hands-on learning.