The influence of management on a corporation's philanthropic support of the arts

This thesis explores the premise that the upper management of a corporation plays a significant role in the decision to fund arts organizations. Research on local trends in corporate giving, corporate social responsibility, and factors that influence management in the decision making process is included. Through analysis of the Washington Post Company's corporate giving program and Sallie Mae's community relations program, this study provides a clear picture of existing contributions programs and the role management executives play in the operation of such programs. The results of this study revealed that although upper management executives have their own interests in the arts, they attempt to maintain a healthy balance between personal beliefs and the corporation's self-interests.