This document summarizes a doctoral dissertation defense presented by Monica Williams on July 10, 2009. The dissertation examined the entrepreneurial orientation of leaders at public historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and how that relates to the financial stability and fundraising activities of their institutions. A qualitative study was conducted through online questionnaires of HBCU presidents and chief development officers. Major findings included that building teams and being proactive were common entrepreneurial traits among successful fundraisers, and that strategic fundraising and planning were seen as best practices. Conclusions emphasized that private fundraising is critical to the survival of HBCUs given declines in public funding.

1. Engagement Levels of Historically Black College and University Leaders in Entrepreneurialism through Fundraising ______________________________________ A Doctoral Dissertation Defense by Monica Georgette Williams July 10, 2009 William Allan Kritsonis, Ph.D. Dissertation Chair

18. The Fundraising Cycle © by Seiler (2009 )

20. Major Findings Entrepreneurial Characteristics – Research Question One

22. Major Findings Entrepreneurial Characteristics – Research Question One persuasive proactive visionary competitive change agent risk taker opportunist team builder creative innovative $15,000,000 $25,000,000 $30,000,000+ Amount Raised Respondents 9 & 11 Respondent 13 Respondent 15