Jennifer Marcy

Dr. Jennifer Marcy is the Director of the Nonprofit Leadership, Global Cultures, and Social Enterprise M.A. & Certificate Programs in the Department of Religious Studies. As director of the Nonprofit Leadership Online Programs, she plays a central role in strengthening the skills and capacities of both emerging and experienced nonprofit leaders. Through innovative, practice-focused curriculum and applied learning opportunities, she supports students as they prepare to address complex challenges facing communities at the local, national, and global levels. She collaborates with a core faculty of award-winning educators who bring deep expertise in the nonprofit sector, including nonprofit management and leadership, global engagement, and intercultural learning. Together, they focus on building the intercultural competence, ethical leadership, and professional skills necessary to navigate the rapidly changing and complex landscape of nonprofit and philanthropic work.

Dr. Marcy is a scholar-practitioner who brings extensive nonprofit and higher education experience to the classroom, combining professional insight with a commitment to mentoring and preparing students to lead with purpose. She brings two decades of expertise in grant writing, program design, and budget development, with a strong track record securing competitive funding from major federal agencies and private foundations. Dr. Marcy has developed and led complex, multimillion-dollar global programs in economic development, food policy, agricultural development, and higher education capacity strengthening generating over $150 million in external funding. Her international portfolio spans Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America, where she has managed large-scale research and capacity strengthening initiatives and partnered with diverse stakeholders including nonprofits, higher education institutions, and research organizations. A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Marcy is passionate about preparing the next generation of nonprofit leaders and takes pride in supporting students as they pursue meaningful, impact-driven careers. Dr. Marcy holds a Ph.D. in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education from Michigan State University.