Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) M. Gillespie is an assistant professor in the Department of Public and Nonprofit Administration (DPNA) at the University of Memphis and an affiliate faculty member of the Institute for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership.

Since joining the University of Memphis in 2020, she has led research initiatives focused on nonprofit organizations and philanthropy, both in Memphis and nationally, placing particular emphasis on women’s philanthropy, women’s grantmaking foundations and funds, social change organizations, and nonprofit fundraising capacity. Through her scholarship and service, she has developed strong connections with the Memphis nonprofit community and is deeply committed to preparing the next generation of nonprofit leaders.

Her research interests center on philanthropy, women’s giving, nonprofit fundraising,
grantmaking foundations and funds, and feminist and social change organizations. Dr. Gillespie earned her Ph.D. in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, her M.P.A. from Drake University, and her B.A. in History, with minors in French and English, from the University of Iowa.

Dr. Gillespie brings nearly a decade of nonprofit leadership experience to her academic role. Her career in the sector began during her undergraduate studies at the University of Iowa, where she worked at the Women’s Resource and Action Center. There, she supported women seeking legal aid, mental health services, and empowerment opportunities—an experience that ignited her passion for advancing social change through nonprofit and philanthropic work.

In addition to her academic contributions, Dr. Gillespie performs consultant work for nonprofits, specializing in resource development and capacity building, through her role at the University of Memphis. She also writes grants for small to mid-sized nonprofits through her work with Change Granted. She currently serves on the boards of The Memphis Challenge, Academic Women in Public Administration, and The Arc Mid-South. Her work bridges theory and practice, equipping both students and practitioners to lead with purpose, equity, and impact.

In 2025, Dr. Gillespie co-founded The Women’s Giving Collective (WGC), a philanthropic women’s giving circle dedicated to empowering women through collective giving. The WGC invests in causes that strengthen communities, transform lives, and advance gender and social equity through collaborative, values-driven philanthropy.