From Notre Dame to Nonprofit Leadership: Nathan Stroup’s Journey with the MNA Program

For Nathan Stroup, choosing the University of Notre Dame for his Master of Nonprofit Administration (MNA) degree was about more than just academics—it was about embracing a mission-driven education rooted in Catholic values that were important to him. Graduating in 2021, Nathan now serves as the Assistant Director of Annual Giving at Saint Mary’s College, where he continues to apply the lessons learned during his time at Notre Dame to make a meaningful impact in the nonprofit sector.

How His Practicum Shaped His Future Career in Higher Education

Stroup’s academic journey was enriched by thought-provoking coursework, which he credits to the courses specifically taught by MNA Academic Director, Dr. Angela Logan, saying, “The courses taught by Dr. Logan caused a great pause, with many of the conversations proved valuable within the work environment— especially those involving contemporary challenges within the nonprofit sector.”

A pivotal experience during his time in the program was his practicum with the Congregation of Holy Cross, U.S. Province of Priests and Brothers. This hands-on opportunity provided Nathan with real-world exposure to nonprofit development, further solidifying his passion for fundraising and philanthropy. Through this experience, he gained crucial insights into the complexities of nonprofit management while honing practical skills that would later shape his career path as Assistant Director of Annual Giving at Saint Mary’s College.

Leading with a Broader Perspective

The MNA program at Notre Dame significantly influenced Nathan’s leadership style, encouraging him to adopt a more strategic, big-picture approach. The coursework and discussions pushed him to consider perspectives often overlooked in leadership positions, reinforcing the importance of inclusive decision-making and mission-driven leadership.

These lessons have become integral to his work at Saint Mary’s College, where he plays a key role in annual giving efforts, ensuring that philanthropy continues to support the institution’s mission and students. The ability to navigate nonprofit challenges with a holistic and ethical mindset has been one of the most valuable takeaways from his time at Notre Dame.

Advice for Prospective MNA Students

For those considering the Notre Dame MNA, Nathan offers this advice: “The investment is worth it—not only for your long-term career aspirations but for the impact you will have on the individuals your organization serves. It’s a challenging, life-changing experience that offers numerous opportunities to grow and work towards the greater good.”