Assistant Professor Dr. ChiaKo Hung brings a passion for data-driven decision-making and real‑world impact to his teaching and research at Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2). Through his work on nonprofit financial management and philanthropy, he examines long‑standing assumptions in the social sector, using evidence to distinguish best practices from misconceptions. In the classroom, he focuses on equipping students with practical skills they can carry into their careers. In this Q&A, Dr. Hung reflects on what makes teaching at SP2 meaningful, the impact his research aims to have, and his favorite way to spend time in Philadelphia.

What do you enjoy most about teaching at SP2?

For me, it is important to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need for their careers. Recently, a former student emailed me and said, “Your class really changed my life.” Moments like this are what make teaching at SP2 both rewarding and meaningful.

Tell us about your research and the impact it aims to have.

My research focuses on nonprofit financial management and philanthropy. There are some taken-for-granted financial management and fundraising practices in the social sector. And one of my research goals is to use data to examine whether these practices are true standards for nonprofits to follow or simply misconceptions. I aim to provide evidence-based practices that nonprofits can use to guide their decisions.

How does collaboration play a role in your work at SP2 and beyond?

I work closely with SP2 faculty and students on research projects. I also collaborate with an SP2 research center on data analysis, and I am part of a team working with Philadelphia social sector leaders to better understand how nonprofits in southeastern Pennsylvania are affected by federal funding cuts.

What is your favorite thing to do in Philadelphia?

I’m a HUGE fan of baseball, so my favorite thing to do is watch baseball games. Go Phillies!