“In my role on campus I often see the banners that say ‘Philanthropy at Work,’” said Bhatia, director of facilities and capital planning in the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts. “I engage often with internal development team on various initiatives, and I wanted to learn more about philanthropy and make a tangible impact on the Atlanta community.” 

Encouraged by a colleague, Bhatia applied and was selected for the Atlanta Women’s Foundation’s Inspire Atlanta 2024 philanthropic leadership program. She said the program covered leadership styles, building donor relationships, starting and structuring a nonprofit organization, need and advocacy research training, and more.  

Bhatia said she gained valuable insights into nonprofit operations and developed a passion for empowering young girls and women through education.  

“This transformative leadership experience equipped me to enhance leadership roles within my organization and community. I honed skills in fundraising, education, and community engagement, enabling me to effectively support and connect with others,” she said. 

When Inspire Atlanta 2024 concluded in May, Bhatia had raised nearly double her initial goal of $10,000. Collectively, the 31 members of her cohort raised $577,000. 

The funding will go to the Foundation’s All Girls Forward initiative, which supports education, after-school programming, life skills, and access to mental health and physical health services for women and girls from communities in Atlanta.  

“I had no prior experience in philanthropic fundraising, and Inspire Atlanta was a catalyst for stepping outside my comfort zone. I’m so glad I did. It helped me grow personally and professionally while making meaningful connections in the community,” said Bhatia. 

Making a difference in the Georgia Tech and Atlanta communities is a lifelong passion for Bhatia. She received the APPA Pacesetter Award in January, in part for her work to promote women’s roles in facilities and campus planning leadership. 

“The programs that All Girls Forward supports are for young girls who are looking toward mentoring, college readiness, and STEM education. They are exploring what they want to be when they grow up,” said Bhatia.  

“I am excited to stay engaged with the All Girls Forward program and looking forward to introducing them to Georgia Tech programs and community. I also look forward to continued engagement with the Atlanta Women's Foundation, along with amplifying the Georgia Tech values of ‘we celebrate collaboration’ and ‘we nurture the well-being of our community.’”