Patton’s Pick: The Thinking Machine

Leadership Resources for the Philanthropic Sector

This edition of Patton’s Picks features The Thinking Machine by Stephen Witt, a gripping biography of Jensen Huang and the rise of NVIDIA. It’s a story of visionary leadership, relentless innovation, and the quiet emergence of AI as a defining force in modern life. For nonprofit leaders looking to understand the future of technology—and the people building it—this is essential reading.

Top Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders:

Technology & Innovation

• Understanding the origins of GPU and AI technology equips leaders for future disruption.

Strategic Planning & Visioning

• Innovation thrives when leaders maintain long-term vision - even during short-term turbulence.

Leadership & Team Development

• Jensen Huang models values-driven leadership with focus, adaptability, and grit.

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.

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