When you hear the word philanthropist, do you picture yourself?

In this week’s episode of Possibilities with Monique de Maio, I sit down with Hope Gallagher Ogletree, Senior Director of Development at Fordham’s Gabelli School of Business and the leader of Fordham’s Women’s Philanthropy Initiatives, to flip the script on what giving really means.

We talk about:

→ Why women already control two-thirds of wealth, and what that means for the future of philanthropy

→ How financial literacy unlocks confidence, power, and purpose

→ Why emotional connection and community drive women’s giving more than prestige

→ The rise of giving circles and how they amplify both impact and relationships

→ Why you are already a philanthropist, whether you realize it or not

Hope shares stories, stats, and straight talk that prove philanthropy isn’t just for billionaires. It’s about heart, humanity, and making a difference at any level.

If you’ve ever thought “I don’t give enough to matter,” this episode will change your mind.

About Our Guest

Hope Gallagher Ogletree is the Senior Director of Development at Fordham’s Gabelli School of Business and head of Fordham’s Women’s Philanthropy Initiatives. She’s the driving force behind the university’s Women’s Philanthropy Summit and its first giving circles, initiatives that have reshaped how women connect with and contribute to meaningful causes. With more than a decade of experience in advancement, Hope is known for her strategic vision, warmth, and ability to build lasting philanthropic communities.

Connect with Hope on LinkedIn: Hope Ogletree

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Philanthropy and Financial Literacy

03:00 - The Journey into Philanthropy

05:51 - Women and Wealth Transfer

08:51 - Understanding Women’s Giving Patterns

12:07 - The Emotional Connection to Philanthropy

15:10 - The Role of Giving Circles

18:00 - Building Community through Philanthropy

21:06 - The Importance of Inclusivity in Philanthropy

23:54 - Trust and Relationship Building in Philanthropy

27:02 - Redefining Philanthropy for Women

29:46 - Advice for Aspiring Philanthropists

33:12 - Career Advice and Personal Growth

35:59 - Final Thoughts on Purpose and Giving

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