Skip to main content

Blog

Patton's Pick: Empire of AI by Karen Hao

October 21, 2025

Leadership Resources for the Philanthropic Sector

1 (4) (1)

While we've been immersed in the excitement of AI, Karen Hao's Empire of AI is an important (and sobering) examination of how artificial intelligence is reshaping economies, societies, and power structures. For nonprofit leaders, this book is a timely call to understand both the promise and perils of emerging technology. As AI tools increasingly influence fundraising, communications, and service delivery, Hao’s insights help leaders navigate the ethical and strategic implications.

  • Recognize how AI may reinforce or disrupt inequality.

  • Identify opportunities to responsibly integrate AI into your mission.

  • Stay ahead of trends that are transforming donor engagement and program delivery.

Dr. Patton McDowell, CFRE, MBA, is the creator of the innovative PMA Mastermind Leadership Program, a unique offering designed to elevate nonprofit leaders through comprehensive training and peer collaboration. He is also the author of the best-selling book, Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, and host of the weekly podcast with the same name, available here. Since founding PMA Nonprofit Leadership in 2009, Patton has strategically guided over 300 nonprofit organizations to achieve their fullest potential. A Certified Fundraising Executive and Master Trainer for AFP Global, he serves as Executive in Residence at Cornell University's Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy and as Director of the Institute for Philanthropic Leadership.

 

Leave us a comment below! We would love to hear from you!