education sessions

We have a wide array of educational sessions waiting for you at AFP ICON 2024. Whether you want to master leadership, relationship building, securing the gift, trends and innovation, or all of the above, AFP has the latest and greatest information to unlock your fundraising potential.

*Sessions and speakers subject to change.
*Session times, dates and assigned rooms subject to change.

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Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 701A

The Downside of Donor Centric Fundraising

Donor centric fundraising states we should center donor interests, motivations, needs and values. In doing so, do we ignore the needs of the communities we serve? What is the downside of donor centric fundraising? Learn how to identify the problems of the improper application of donor centric fundraising.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Angela Barnes, CFRE, MBA

Photo of Angela Barnes
Angela is a Managing Director with Carter, an international philanthropic giving consultancy, working with human services, arts and culture and higher education partners in the areas of annual giving, major gifts, and campaign planning. She believes every nonprofit can become a well-funded scalable institution. Not afraid of risks, she has worked with leadership and advancement teams to foster internal cultures of philanthropy. Angela has an MBA from Ursuline College and attained her CFRE in 2022.

Jack Alotto, CFRE, MA

Photo of Jack Alotto
Consultant - Consultant and Educator
Jack has served in a variety of fundraising leadership roles in healthcare, social services, and the arts sectors. His commitment to philanthropy led him to serve as a trainer at the Fundraising Academy at National University, with focuses on cause selling, fundraising basics, and major gifts, since 2019. Dedicated to the professional development of fundraisers, Jack is a CFRE ambassador, while working diligently to advance DEI in the sector.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 715 A/B

Creating Real, Token Free Board Diversity

Frustrated that your board isn't diverse like your community? Aware that this lack of diversity is directly impeding your fundraising? This session will tell you exactly what a fundraiser can do to make change happen!

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Armando Zumaya, 34 years

Photo of Armando Zumaya
Somos El Poder - Founder
Armando Zumaya has been in fundraising for 34 years in a variety of roles that have given him a unique perspective on development offices, prospecting and role of prospect research/management. He is the Founder of Somos El Poder, the first Latinx Fundraising Institute in the US. He is widely published author and writer on development and nonprofits.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 718 A

Learning To Speak about Love in Fundraising: New Research from 2023

At the core of the root of philanthropy is the notion of love. Yet, in fundraising we frequently default to the language of money or support. This session will explore how growing love can not only build the wellbeing of our supporters it can also double giving.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Adrian Sargeant, PhD

Photo of Adrian Sargeant
Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy - Co-Director
Adrian Sargeant PhD is Co-Director of the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy. He is one of the world's leading fundraising academics and was formerly the first Hartsook Chair in Fundraising at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. He is the author Fundraising Principles and Practice, Building Donor Loyalty and Fundraising Management: Analysis, Planning and Practice.

Jen Shang, PhD

Photo of Jen Shang
Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy - Co-Director
Jen Shang is Co-Director and Professor of Philanthropic Psychology at the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy. Jen's research has been featured by outlets such as the BBC and the Wall Street Journal. Her research has been funded by the Society of Judgment and Decision Making, the National Science Foundation, The Aspen Institute, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the Hewlett Foundation.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 801 B

Building the House: Applying Project Management Principles to the Grant Proposal Process

From the foundation to the interior, building a house requires that certain steps be taken in the correct order. Learn how to "build the house" correctly and apply the principles of project management to submit an intentional, organized, cohesive multi-year, large-dollar, or Federal grant proposal.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Danielle Dougherty, MPA

Photo of Danielle Dougherty
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library - Assistant Director of Grants Management
Danielle Dougherty is the Assistant Director of Grants Management at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library where she manages all corporate and foundation fundraising in support of the institution. To date, she has raised nearly $1.6 million in grant funding for organizations ranging from museums to domestic violence centers. Danielle has a Master’s in Public Administration from West Chester University.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 717 A/B

Making Sense of Fundraising: What’s Working in ’24 and More

There are dozens of different industry trend reports - how do we make sense of what's a bright shiny object and what really works? In this session we'll review all the trends, discuss what's working, and workshop a plan you can implement to make the most of fundraising research.   Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Leadership and Management

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Clay Buck, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Clay Buck
TCB Fundraising - Founder and Principal
T. Clay Buck, CFRE is the Founder of TCB Fundraising, a fundraising and nonprofit communications consultancy focusing on data-informed strategies to strengthen results and deepen engagement. A thirty-year fundraising veteran, Clay has worked nonprofits across the country. He is an AFP Master Trainer and holds the certificate in Philanthropic Psychology. He is also the co-creator of The Fundraiser’s Planner, Lead Fundraising Coach at iWave and the Chair of the IDEA Committee for AFP Global.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 802 A/B

Influencing and Informing Your Organization’s Vision for Philanthropy (Presented by Advancement Resources)

Have your colleagues ever approached you with a shopping list of funding priorities and a directive to “go get the money”? Too often in healthcare philanthropy, our organizations understand only in part how to apply the power of philanthropy to achieve our goals. In this panel discussion, learn research-based best-practices for redirecting conversations with clinicians, executives, and others; building trust; and securing a seat at the table in hospital or system priority-setting discussions. Use data-driven strategies to help achieve lasting outcomes for your organization’s important work.

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Shashea Adams-Guess

Photo of Shashea Adams-Guess
UT Southwestern Medical Center - AVP Advancement Strategy and Operations
Shashea is the AVP of Advancement Strategy and Operations at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Over her 20+ years in leadership, Shashea has been a trusted advisor on culture and strategic planning, but her greatest contribution is leading her team to advance engagement, fundraising initiatives, and the mission of UT Southwestern.

Mark McCampbell

Photo of Mark McCampbell
Advancement Resources - Senior Vice President
Mark is committed to this comprehensive approach, identifying strengths and opportunities, assets and effectiveness in teams, and helping to create near-term change that produces long-term transformation. With more than 36 years of experience in a wide range of development leadership positions, Mark has worked with leaders in health care, higher education, arts, human services, and faith-based institutions to help organizations prepare and take steps toward the next level of growth.

Michael Delzotti, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, FAHP

Photo of Michael Delzotti
UK Markey Cancer Foundation - President & CEO
Mike has 29+ years in leadership and began at a Los Angeles foundation; moved to UCLA, then Special Olympics. In Texas, Mike was a leader at Rice University; then led both MD Anderson’s major/planned giving during two $1B+ campaigns and Neurodegeneration Consortium ($65M partner-campaign with MIT, Baylor College of Medicine).


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 718 B

The Status of Canadian Fundraising Report: Current Trends, Examples and Advice to Drive Growth (Presented by Blackbaud)

Join Blackbaud to explore how fundraising is trending in Canada. Our annual Status of Canadian Fundraising Report shares insights from 500+ fundraising professionals on income, fundraising performance, digital transformation and more. In this session, we draw from these research findings to understand what's driving nonprofit organization's success, and provide real-world examples, actionable advice and tips on best practices to help your nonprofit organization achieve sustainable growth – even in a challenging economy.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Page Bullington

Photo of Page Bullington
Blackbaud - Vice President and Global Managing Director, Customer Success, Blackbaud
As Vice President and Global Managing Director of Customer Success, Page oversees a team of customer success managers dedicated to ensure Blackbaud customers receive the maximum value from their solutions and can support their intended missions. Prior to Blackbaud, Page was Grants Director for Roper St. Francis Healthcare in Charleston, SC, specializing in grant writing and corporate gift funding. She has extensive experience working in the nonprofit industry, specifically with educational, healthcare, and political organizations.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

9:00am - 10:15am
Room 701B

Strategies for Indigenous Engagement in Fundraising: Lessons Learned and Shared (Sponsored by Veritus Group)

Learn how to collaborate effectively with Indigenous peoples, communities, and donors by exploring the largest fundraising campaign for First Nations Peoples in Canada. Discover strategies for aligning donor and indigenous objectives through building relationships based on trust, centering Indigenous voices, and mindful messaging to make a positive impact together.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Naomi Racette

Photo of Naomi Racette
NIB Trust Fund - Executive Director
Naomi Racette is a Cree/Métis from Saskatchewan. As Executive Director of the NIB Trust Fund, the largest funding organization of Indigenous peoples in Canada, she has been granting funds to self-determined projects addressing the harms of residential schools. A relationship builder, Naomi is proud of the strong financial management and leadership established at the Trust Fund. Naomi is inspired every day by survivors, elders, youth, communities, and organizations, moving forward grounded in traditional ways.

Don Gorsalitz, CFRE

Photo of Don Gorsalitz
DCG Philanthropic Services Inc. - President
Don has over 30 years of experience in fundraising with expertise in strategy development, campaign management, and volunteer and donor engagement. He is a trusted advisor for high-profile fund development efforts in Canada working on annual, major, and legacy giving campaigns. He has extensive experience fundraising alongside Indigenous individuals and organizations. Don applies a strategic and innovative approach to every project, collaborating with clients and donors to provide fund development expertise and community investment strategy.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 601 A/B

Inspire and Influence Others to Act: Get Out of Your Head. Get Into Your Heart

Do you need someone to support your organization? Are you trying to get others excited about following your lead? Do you have an idea that you want others to get behind? In this session, we will teach you a framework to communicate more effectively to influence others, to refine your storytelling and access and leverage your secret weapon - your authentic voice.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Tiffany Quivers, MA

Photo of Tiffany Quivers
Tiffany Quivers has over twenty years experience in training, strategy and leadership development. She is an accomplished facilitator and curriculum developer that is known for designing learning experiences that engage learners and lead to new conversations and actions. She is a sought-after speaker for organizations such as Association for Talent Development and The Executive Leadership Council. Tiffany has worked domestically and internationally with organizations to guide and manage change and increase effectiveness.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 701A

Making the Ask- using neuroscience in your solicitation

Leave old-school moves management behind and use the latest thinking in neuroscience in your major donor fundraising. Discover 20 science-based tools to engage your prospect while soliciting your next major gift. The session is almost entirely interactive under five broad headings- Passion, Proposal, Preparation, Persuasion, and Persistence.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Bernard Ross, MA

Photo of Bernard Ross
=mc consulting - Director
An internationally regarded expert on strategy and behavioral science, he’s written 8 award winning books on fundraising. Breakthrough Thinking won best non-profit book in the USA. He’s advised many of the world’s leading INGOs: UNICEF, UNHCR, IFRC, ICRC and MSF, And raised money for Europe’s largest scientific experiment, for the biggest refugee camp, to house the world’s largest dinosaur in Argentina, and to save the last 800 great apes in Africa.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 701B

When the Going Gets Tough, The Generous Get Going: How Market Shifts Affect Charitable Giving

Fundraisers are challenged in both bull and bear markets. In this session you will learn practical ways to engage donors during economic downturn and upturn, including the psychological and sociological factors that prompt transformational gifts to your organization.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Juanita Sheppard, CFRE

Photo of Juanita Sheppard
United Way of Greater Atlanta - Vice President, Foundation Partnerships
As Vice President, Foundation Partnerships at United Way of Greater Atlanta, Juanita Sheppard strategically serves as the central source for cultivating and engaging foundation and government partners. She is a member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council, Neighborhood Nexus, and Midtown Atlanta Rotary. Juanita also served as Past President of the AFP Greater Atlanta Chapter (2019). Juanita earned her CFRE certification in June 2020.

Debra Faulk, MA

Photo of Debra Faulk
Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services - Vice President, Philanthopic Specialist
Debra Faulk is a senior philanthropic advisor. Within Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services, Debra supports $1.5 billion+ of charitable assets under management and works with nonprofit organizations in endowment management, fundraising, and planned giving. She also helps charitable high-net-worth families establish and administer private foundations, charitable trusts, DAFs, and other charitable strategies. Debra was a CEO of public charity, owned a public relations practice focused on public-private partnerships, and is a sought-after speaker in the Southeast.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 714 A/B

So, You’re Thinking About Leadership?

Being a fundraiser doesn’t prepare you to be a leader. Often though, career advancement only comes from moving into a leadership role. Join an interactive workshop to identify the skills needed to advance, how to prepare for a leadership role, and what to do once you get there.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Eli Clarke

Photo of Eli Clarke
McMaster University - Manager, Estate Giving & Legacy Planning
Everyone deserves an education, regardless of financial background and access to education creates a more just and equitable world. As Manager, Estate Giving and Legacy Planning at McMaster University, Eli aligns opportunities to support students with donor’s philanthropic interests. Prior to McMaster, Eli was a Senior Development Officer, Gift Planning at the University of Toronto after overseeing the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada’s legacy giving program.

Justin Pilon

Photo of Justin Pilon
Huron University College - Associate Vice President, Advancement
Justin Pilon is the Associate Vice President, Advancement at Huron Unviersity College, an affiliate of the University of Western Ontario dedicated to educating Leaders with Heart. With over 10 years of experience in higher-education philanthropy, Justin is a passionate facilitator of conversations that help donors and organizations achieve their philanthropic and fundraising goals and create opportunities for students to pursue a world-class education. Justin is the Past Chair of the London Ontario Chapter of CAGP.

Afshaan Kohari

Photo of Afshaan Kohari
Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto - Director of Advancement
Afshaan thrives on building strong, authentic relationships. Her work experience includes mid-level and major gift fundraising, gift implementation and volunteer engagement. She is passionate about continuous learning and inclusive leadership. She describes herself as a big picture thinker and facilitator of valuable conversations that drive impact and bring about change. Currently she is Director of Advancement for the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 715 A/B

Empowering Communication Strategies Within The Disability Sector

People with disabilities constitute the nation's largest minority group, and the only group any of us can become a member of at any time. Learn perspective and communication techniques to be the best ally possible, and to enroll and inspire 10% of the world's population into your mission.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kyra Millich, CFRE, JD

Photo of Kyra Millich
National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Major Gifts Officer
Kyra is the Major Gift Officer for the Western Region of the United States and co-founder of the Disability Employment Resource Group at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. After receiving a diagnosis of MS, Kyra transitioned from consumer protection litigation to development - first managing peer-to-peer fundraising events and then as an individual giving professional. She is honored to specialize in genuine empowerment, inspiration and enrollment of persons impacted by disability.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 803 A/B

Hacking Human Wetware - The Art and Science of Neurophilanthropy

wet·ware (n): the brain, especially respecting computational capabilities and decision-making processes. Eric and Eryn-Faye will leverage their combined 40 years of work, education, and hundreds of millions of dollars raised to help you explore the emerging field of neurophilanthropy, the confluence of neuroscience, psychology, and sociology within fundraising.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Eryn-Faye Mallone, MSc, LLB.

Photo of Eryn-Faye Mallone, MSc, LLB.
NeuroImprints - Behavioural Scientist
A behavioural scientist with an insatiable curiosity about what makes people give money away, Eryn-Faye Mallone is the CEO of NeuroImprints. She specializes in taking donor segmentation, cultivation, and stewardship to new levels by integrating psychosocial profiling, neurodesign, and other research-based techniques. Eryn-Faye holds a Master of Science in Applied Neuroscience from King’s College London (England) as well as a law degree from the University of Glasgow (Scotland).

Eric Frans, CFRE, MA

Photo of Eric Frans
IFCJ - Vice President, Philanthropy
Eric is a highly creative and strategic senior executive with extensive local, national, and international non-profit experience. For over two decades he has a consistent track record of training best-in-class teams and receiving six, seven, and eight-figure gifts based on his recognized expertise in the field of neurophilanthropy. As Vice-President of Philanthropy at the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ), Eric oversees all relationship fundraising, as well as gift planning and foundations.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 718 A

Before Lights, Camera, ACTION!

Blockbusters get all the press. But even in Hollywood, there’s a lot that happens before the opening curtain. Join us as we look behind the scenes of how philanthropic producers (AKA fundraisers) partner with leadership talent. Together we’ll discuss how cast and crew work together to build a giving culture.   Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Leadership and Management

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Samantha Booras

Photo of Samantha Booras
Samantha Booras is the Assistant Director of Development for UCLA’s Division of Undergraduate Education in the College of Letters and Science. She is responsible with helping execute annual fund campaigns, volunteer management, event planning, and securing major gifts. She is an active member of AFP’s Greater San Fernando Valley Chapter, serving on the educational committee since 2021. In her free time, Samantha enjoys hiking, ice skating, horseback riding, and whale watching.

Joy C. McKee, ACFRE, CFRE, MBA

Photo of Joy C. McKee
UCLA College of Letters and Science - Executive Director of Development, Undergraduate Education
Joy McKee, ACFRE is the Executive Director of Development for UCLA’s Division of Undergraduate Education in the College of Letters and Science. Her 22+ year fundraising career has been dedicated to building a culture of collaborative philanthropy. Under her leadership, she and her team raised over $48 million during a $5.4 billion campaign for UCLA. She has served on the ACFRE Credentialing Board and currently serves on the AFP Greater San Fernando Valley Chapter board.

Benjamin Mohler, ACFRE, CFRE, MA

Photo of Benjamin Mohler
GivingThree - Chief Executive and Principal Consultant
Ben Mohler is the chief executive of GivingThree. Prior to this he served in key advancement roles for Kentucky Community and Technical College System, Eastern Kentucky University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Cedarville University, and University of Texas at Austin. Mohler has served previously as a member of the ACFRE Credentialing Board. He currently serves on the AHP Journal Advisory Council and the boards of both AFP Global and United Way of Kentucky.

Magdalena Barragan

Photo of Magdalena Barragan
UCLA - Executive Director, International Education Office
Magdalena Barragán is the Executive Director for the UCLA International Education Office. She has 23-years of experience working with international students and study abroad experiences, including managing one of the nation’s largest MBA Exchange Programs. She has successfully recruited international students and managed over 100 outbound programs for UCLA. Her current efforts are focused on creating a long-term relationship with prior program participants where students gain greater career and networking value for their experience abroad.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 802 A/B

Preparing Before, During, and After for Stellar Engagement (Presented by Advancement Resources)

Engagement makes the world turn in healthcare philanthropy—but are you fully leveraging the opportunity that intentional, strategic communication and engagement strategy provides? In this session, panelists explore how they prepare for and execute thoughtful communications and follow-up with potential donors in order to ensure that each touch point is maximized for optimal effectiveness in increasing commitment and meeting your hospital’s goals.

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Janice Chan

Photo of Janice Chan
Michael Garron Hospital Foundation - Director of Marketing and Communications
From igniting discussion about the most fatal gynecological cancer to fostering optimism as our health system recovers from the pandemic, Janice’s career has focused on creating meaningful engagement. At Michael Garron Hospital Foundation, she’s showing donors how their support is helping a community hospital exceed all expectations.

Caleb Dutzer

Photo of Caleb Dutzer
Advancement Resources - Vice President of Strategic Partnerships
Caleb works closely with academic, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations to develop and execute a customized and strategic approach to deepen the culture of philanthropy within each organization while supporting long-term transformation. In addition, Caleb is part of the facilitation team that delivers professional education for healthcare, academic, and nonprofit organizations. Through these engagements, he is involved in many client-focused projects and is honored to serve these organizations in a variety of ways.

Marc Kaplan

Photo of Marc Kaplan
Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation - Director of Development
Marc is responsible for major giving, capital campaigns, donor engagement, cultivation, and strategic collaboration across the Nicklaus Children’s Health System. Marc spends his time in the community creating awareness and providing the opportunity for members of the community and global community to invest in the children’s future.

Michael Delzotti, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, FAHP

Photo of Michael Delzotti
UK Markey Cancer Foundation - President & CEO
Mike has 29+ years in leadership and began at a Los Angeles foundation; moved to UCLA, then Special Olympics. In Texas, Mike was a leader at Rice University; then led both MD Anderson’s major/planned giving during two $1B+ campaigns and Neurodegeneration Consortium ($65M partner-campaign with MIT, Baylor College of Medicine).


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 801 A

Fundraising Intelligence: The New Standard in Modern Fundraising (Presented by Kindsight (iWave+ UCInnovation + NOS)

Giving is shifting, competition for funds is increasing, and retention is at an all-time low. Now more than ever, it is imperative for organizations to embrace personalization and individualized approaches to donor engagement. But how do you do this with limited resources and a wide range of diverse responsibilities?   Join us to dive into the new standard of modern fundraising; fundraising intelligence and the transformative power of big data, automation, and AI. Learn how to optimize efficiency, overcome resource constraints, and deliver a personalized engagement experience to every donor, thus empowering your organization to thrive in an ever-evolving nonprofit landscape.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Craig O'Neill

Photo of Craig O'Neill
Kindsight (iWave+ UCinnovation + NOS) - CEO - Kindsight (formerly iWave)
Craig has a 30-year track record of building innovative software companies in customer relationship management, wealth management, and payments. Prior to joining iWave, Craig was the CEO of Versapay, a fintech company that serves over a million buyers and sellers on its business-to-business billing and payment network. He holds a B.Sc. from the University of Toronto in Computer Science and Mathematics.

Cherian Koshy, CFRE

Photo of Cherian Koshy
Kindsight (iWave+ UCinnovation + NOS) - VP of Product Strategy- Kindsight (formerly iWave).
Cherian Koshy, VP of Product Strategy at iWave, is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), and AFP Master Trainer. He is the founder of the Nonprofit Operating System (now an iWave product), a comprehensive platform designed to help organizations streamline their operations and maximize their impact. Prior to starting NonprofitOS, Cherian spent more twenty five years working in the nonprofit sector, working with thousands of donors and raising millions


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 713 A/B

From Click to Impact: Enhancing Your Online Donation Journey (Presented by Bloomerang)

Imagine if your nonprofit could retain just 10% more recurring givers than the industry average. Not only would this boost your fundraising efforts and help you reach your goals, but achieving this is as simple as focusing on online giving tools and best practices.   During this panel discussion, we will explore insights from Bloomerang’s Donor Experience Report. This report analyzed the online giving interactions of over 300 nonprofits, where we made $25 donations to various organizations across the U.S. and carefully monitored the outcomes. We will provide practical advice on enhancing your donation process, optimizing your landing page, crafting impactful receipt emails, perfecting your thank yous, and executing effective follow-up strategies.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Ligia Pena, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, M.Sc.

Photo of Ligia Pena
GlobetrottingFundraiser - International Legacy Consultant
Ligia Peña, CFRE is President of GlobetrottingFundraiser, specializing in helping charities develop & implement their fundraising and legacy strategy. She's also a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Kent, researching national legacy marketing campaigns. As an AFP Master Trainer, she’s trained countless fundraisers around the globe. She's a sought-after and seasoned international presenter who enjoys sharing her knowledge and empowering nonprofits professionals to think about legacies differently by daring to be creative and innovative.

Emily Marsh

Photo of Emily Marsh
Child and Family Charities - Assistant Development Director
Emily Marsh, M.A., exudes an unwavering love for kids and community, evident through her role as Assistant Development Director at Child and Family Charities. With a passionate dedication to making a difference, she has spent over six years nurturing relationships and resources to support her organization's mission. Child and Family Charities, a nonprofit in Lansing, MI, provides vital services to children and families, including foster care, adoption, resource support, youth shelter, and mental health support.

Josh Meyer, MBA

Photo of Josh Meyer
Bloomerang - VP, Demand Generation
With over 20 years of experience in fundraising, volunteer management, and marketing, Joshua Meyer brings a wealth of expertise to his current position as the VP of Market Engagement at Bloomerang. As a valued member of the Bloomerang marketing team, Josh spearheads all thought leadership, partner, and field event initiatives for the organization.

Alice Ferris, ACFRE, CFRE, MBA, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Alice Ferris
GoalBusters Consulting - Partner
Alice L. Ferris, MBA, CFRE, ACFRE, is the founder of GoalBusters, supporting small fundraising teams with development training, coaching, strategy, and implementation. For the last 30 years, she has worked extensively in fundraising for public media, rural healthcare, education, and science organizations. Alice thrives in finding creative solutions for the fundraising challenges of small organizations and teaching and training about practical and realistic tactics.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 601 A/B

Taking Care of Your Workforce: Innovations in Mental Health Care

A key part of an organization’s success is the strong mental health and wellbeing of its workforce. This session will address the state of mental health and its connection with corporate prosperity. We will then examine innovations that can elevate menial health in the workplace.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Linda McGhee, JD, PhD

Photo of Linda McGhee
Dr. Linda Fleming McGhee is a licensed clinical psychologist who speaks and writes nationally on mental health, race, and education. She received her Psy.D. from George Washington University following a career as an attorney. Dr. McGhee is Former President of the Maryland Psychological Association. She was formerly on the clinical faculty at the Washington School of Psychiatry and a former Adjunct Professor at George Washington University and the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 701B

Treat Stewardship as the Year-Long Celebration of the Gift- and Here's How to do it!

After working hard to secure a gift donors deserve more than just a thank you letter! We'll take a journey on how to stay in touch with donors, sharing the impact of their gift through powerful messaging and engaging others, all leading to stronger relationships, happier donors and bigger gifts.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Mark Chilutti, CFRE

Photo of Mark Chilutti
Magee Rehab Hospital Foundation- Jefferson Health - Assistant Vice President of Development
Mark Chilutti has raised over $45 million to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities in his 20+ years at Magee Rehab Hospital in Philadelphia. He enjoys helping donors make an impact through major and planned giving. He presents frequently for AFP Chapters, at AFP ICON, AFP Spotlight sessions, and as a motivational speaker. Mark is an Eagle Scout and former wheelchair tennis player, living with a spinal cord injury since 1996.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 715 A/B

Fill your Prospect Pipeline: Internal and External Methods to Finding Your Next Major Gift Donors

Internally, your next individual major gift donor is probably already connected to your organization. Understand how you can mine your database to develop your pipeline of major gift donors. Externally, what happens if there is still a gap? Discover resources “out there” to identify viable major donors to your organization.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Liz Rejman

Photo of Liz Rejman
Liz Rejman + Co. - Fundraising Operations Consultant
Liz Rejman has spent 25 years working in the fundraising profession in a variety of sectors. She has presented on the topics of leadership, ethics, fundraising operations, prospect development, data management, effective meetings, and recruitment and selection, at numerous conferences. Liz is a past President of Apra. She is contributor to the book “The Vigilant Fundraiser” and co-editor and contributor to the book "Prospect Research in Canada: An Essential Guide for Researchers and Fundraisers".

Tracey Church, MA, AFP Master Trainer, MLIS

Photo of Tracey Church
Tracey Church & Associates - Principal, Researcher & Consultant
A professional researcher for over 25 years, Tracey has worked with over 400 organizations. She was Founding President of AFP London & Region and is current Chair, IDEA & EMC Committees. Tracey is the Co-Editor & Contributor to APRA’s ”Prospect Research in Canada” book. Tracey teaches the Prospect Research in Fundraising course in Western University’s MLIS program; received the inaugural APRA Canada Excellence in Prospect Research Award; and, is an AFP Certified Master Trainer.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 716 A/B

Faith, Fundraising, & Death - 3 traditions, unlimited questions

A trio of Jewish, Muslim and Christian fundraisers explain what you need to know about legacies giving plus customs about death and giving. Bring your questions, there are no dumb ones! A safe space to talk about death, faith and money is a gift we offer to the fundraising community.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Ann Rosenfield, CFRE, MBA

Photo of Ann Rosenfield
Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto - Chief Development Officer
Ann has won awards in 5 domains of fundraising from 5 different assocations. She is the only person to be part of the winning team for the Mo Davies Award for Excellence in Small Charity Fundraising for 2 different charities - as an ED and as a Board leader. She is proud to have volunteered with Rainbow Railroad and Outright get their starts in fundraising.

Irshad Osman, MBA

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University of Toronto - Senior Development Officer
Imam Irshad Osman (MSc, CFRE) is an Imam by training and a fundraiser by profession. He has worked and studied on three continents. Passionate about inclusive philanthropy. Supporter of international, and educational causes. He has participated in the Fellowship in Inclusion & Philanthropy, Interfaith Innovation Fellowship project, and KAICIID International Inter-religious Fellowship. Speaker and advocate for social justice, true inclusion, anti-hate, anti-racism, etc.

Lori Guenther Reesor, PhD

Photo of Lori Guenther Reesor
Lori Guenther Reesor - Principal
Dr. Lori Guenther Reesor (B. Math, MTS, DMin) is an expert in Christian giving (although Mennonites tremble at using the word ‘expert’ to describe themselves!) She asked Christian donors about their giving during a church basement research tour of Canada. She is delighted that her book, Growing a Generous Church: A Year in the Life of Peach Blossom Church is the only theology book with an illustration of a snowblower!


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 717 A/B

Get Q’d In! Advance Your Mission by Engaging LGBTQIA+ Donors

1 in every 6 Gen Z-ers, 1 in every 10 Millennials identify as LGBTQIA+. As a professional gay fundraiser for LGBTQIA+ nonprofits on opposite coasts, Matt will guide participants through LGBTQIA+ cultural competency, queer donor motivations, and best practices to find, engage, and cultivate these donors in your community.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Matthew Easterwood, CFRE, CAP® (Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy)

Photo of Matthew Easterwood
The Spahr Center - Chief Development & Communications Officer
Matthew Easterwood is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® and Certified Fund Raising Executive, currently chief development & communications officer at The Spahr Center of Marin County California. Matt has 10 years of nonprofit management and six years of fundraising experience. Previous roles include a science center, and multiple LGBTQ+ community centers.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 801 B

The New AFP Code of Ethics-Understanding and Using it.

  Join us for a hands-on workshop exploring the future of the AFP Code of Ethical Standards and Principles. The new Code will feature a renewed focus on inclusivity and today’s fundraising environment. “The Code is subject to change and approval by the AFP Global Ethics Committee and AFP Global Board of Directors.” Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Andrea McManus, CFRE

Photo of Andrea McManus
To Come

Audrey Kintzi, ACFRE, MA, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Audrey Kintzi
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota - Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and the Executive Director of the M. A. in Philanthropy and Development Program
Audrey Kintzi is the Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and the Executive Director of the M. A. in Philanthropy and Development Program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Ms. Kintzi has been working in the development field for over 35 years and is a certified AFP Master Trainer and holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology (with Distinction) from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy.

Robbe Healey, ACFRE, MBA, AFP Master Trainer, FAFP

Photo of Robbe Healey
Aurora Philanthropic Consulting - Founding Member
Robbe Healey brings more than four decades of diverse experience, insight, and success to philanthropic fundraising consulting, strategic planning, board governance and non-profit organization management. Highly regarded and sought after, she has worked with more than 150 organizations. A member and past chair of the AFP Ethics Committee, she is currently CO-Chair of The AFP Code of Ethic Review Task Force. Committed to community service, she is a Rotarian, and volunteer with three community organizations.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 801 A

How to Convert Fans to Donors - A Fundraisers Guide to Social Media

The increase in digital programming and social media use has changed the way nonprofits raise money, build communities, and advocate for their causes. In this session, we'll discuss how to take people from passive fans to passionate supporters and create social media content that actually converts.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Josh Hirsch, MS

Photo of Josh Hirsch
Soukup Strategic Solutions - Senior Strategist
Josh Hirsch is the Senior Strategist for Soukup Strategic Solutions. He has worked in the nonprofit sector since 2006. He has an extensive background in social media, digital communications, and marketing along with experience in grant research and writing, individual giving, special event planning, stewardship, and cultivation of donors. He is the Florida Caucus Representative for the AFP First Coast Chapter and Past-President of the Palm Beach County Chapter

Julia Campbell

Photo of Julia Campbell
J Campbell Social Marketing - Digital Storytelling & Social Media
Julia Campbell is a nonprofit digital consultant, speaker, and author who has been recognized by Forbes and LinkedIn as a top thought leader. She hosts the Nonprofit Nation podcast, has written two books on social media and storytelling for nonprofits, and has helped hundreds of organizations transition to digital through her courses, webinars, and talks.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 718 B

Women’s Leadership Journeys: Success in the face of organizational design, diversity and imposed imposter syndrome

Using a storytelling style, join in the conversation of common leadership challenges as four women reflect on their journeys to executive C-suite roles, attaining success for their organization and their careers.     Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Leadership and Management

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Mojdeh Cox

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Cox and Co. - Principle
Mojdeh Cox brings people together to have challenging conversations around complex issues, develop and execute action plans. For over a decade, Mojdeh has coached organizational and community leaders, businesses and not-for-profit organizations re-imagining their work through heightened equity lens'. Mojdeh speaks, writes and provides media commentary on issues impacting communities.

Sherry Schaefer, MHS

Photo of Sherry Schaefer
CapitalCare Foundation - Director, Foundation and Community Engagement
With 35 years in leadership, Sherry has devoted her skills to mentorship programs, and leadership development. Focusing on team building, communication and business relationship skillsets, she has helped many new leaders hone in on their skills and assets. Sherry attributes her success within healthcare to her ability and learned skills in negotiation, leveraging, and focused networking. lead amazing teams, committed to the goals of the organization and succeed at incredible outcomes.

Delphine Hasle, CFRE

Photo of Delphine Hasle
Perley Health Foundation - Executive Director
Delphine Hasle is a motivated professional, adept and experienced in setting philanthropic strategies and performance measures from annual programs through to capital campaigns. As Executive Director of Perley Health, she has extensive experience with operational and financial management and reporting at the C-Suite and Boardroom levels. She is at her best when working as a conduit between the donor and the institution.

Meghan Rehbein

Photo of Meghan Rehbein
Rutgers University - Dean, Douglass Residential College
Meghan Rehbein serves as the eleventh Dean of Douglass, a role she has held since July 2022. Dr. Rehbein joined Douglass in 2018, serving most recently as Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives where she developed new opportunities for collaboration, with a special focus on communications and sustainability. Prior to that, she led the record-breaking conclusion of the highly successful Power of 100 Years Campaign on behalf of Douglass.


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 4:30pm
Learning Lab 2

Earn More Customers (Yes, We Said Customers)- (Learning Lab) Presented by Fundraise Up

Discover how viewing donors through the lens of 'customer experience' can revolutionize your fundraising efforts. In this session, we'll compare e-commerce strategies to donor engagement, applying Fundraise Up's features to enhance satisfaction and retention. Embrace the paradigm shift: donors are discerning consumers who demand excellence. Elevate their journey, exceed expectations, and watch your support network grow.

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Michael Longenecker

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Fundraise Up - Director of Enterprise Sales
Michael Longenecker is a seasoned professional in the field of nonprofit technology, with a passion for optimizing the donor experience and revolutionizing online giving. With a background in nonprofit CRM architecture and email marketing automation, Michael brings a wealth of experience to the table as Fundraise Up’s Director of Enterprise Sales. Fundraise Up is the chosen platform for some of the largest nonprofits in the world, dedicated to removing friction during the donation process and


Sun, Apr 7, 2024

4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 713 A/B

How to engage with Latinx Community and thrive! (Sponsored by Veritus Group)

Latinos are projected to maintain the highest labor force participation rates among racial or ethnic groups, and by 2021, the Latino gross domestic product (GDP) will reach $1.7 trillion (a quarter of the U.S. GDP). Do you know how to engage with them? Join me!

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Leticia Martinez, MA

Photo of Leticia Martinez
International Community Foundation - Director of Philanthropy
As Director of Philanthropy, Lety Martinez leads the planning, development, and implementation of all communications, marketing and fundraising activities across the organization. She magnifies the culture of philanthropy across ICF staff and board members. Lety was awarded Outstanding Development Professional of the Year 2021 by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Diego Chapter. Lety has over 15 years of experience successfully fundraising and stewarding donor relations for several Mexican and US nonprofit organizations.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 701A

Capital Campaigns: Top Trends and Best Practices to Help You Plan a Successful Campaign

Is there a capital campaign in your future? If so, don't miss this groundbreaking session with campaign expert, Amy Eisenstein, ACFRE, as she shares the latest trends and best practices for planning an effective and efficient capital campaign. You'll leave with practical tools and resources to use right away.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Amy Eisenstein, ACFRE, MA, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Amy Eisenstein
Capital Campaign Pro - CEO
Amy Eisenstein, ACFRE is CEO and Co-Founder of Capital Campaign Pro. Her published books include, Major Gift Fundraising for Small Shops and 50 A$ks in 50 Weeks. Amy became an AFP Distinguished Fellow in 2021, an AFP Master Trainer in 2009, and served as the president of AFP-NJ in 2014 and 2015. Amy first received her CFRE in 2004 and received the ACFRE, in 2013. For more information visit amyeisenstein.com or CapitalCampaignPro.com.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 715 A/B

Leveraging Logic Models to Elevate Your Grant Writing and Reporting Prowess

Wrangling program leaders to identify and articulate goals, measure results and uniformly report impact is often a grant writers greatest struggle. Learn how the use of logic models can transform your grant writing activities from chaotic to calm and enhance your organization’s culture of philanthropy in the process.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Annalise Smith, CFRE

Photo of Annalise Smith
Avow Foundation - Chief Philanthropy Officer
Annalise serves as chief philanthropy officer for Avow Foundation. Responsibilities include managing fundraising staff and activities and developing resources to support the agency’s programs. Annalise completed her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University, a graduate business certificate in health services management from Keiser University, and a master’s degree in health services administration from Hodges University. Annalise earned a certificate in fundraising management from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and earned her CFRE in 2021.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 717 A/B

Culture Shock: Understanding Death Rituals and Superstitions in a Diverse World

In today’s culturally aware society, having rich legacy conversations with donors requires understanding their customs and superstitions surrounding death and dying. This session will cover some of the main diaspora cultures in North America so you can feel better prepared to engage with donors in a culturally-sensitive way about legacies.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Ligia Pena, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, M.Sc.

Photo of Ligia Pena
GlobetrottingFundraiser - International Legacy Consultant
Ligia Peña, CFRE is President of GlobetrottingFundraiser, specializing in helping charities develop & implement their fundraising and legacy strategy. She's also a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Kent, researching national legacy marketing campaigns. As an AFP Master Trainer, she’s trained countless fundraisers around the globe. She's a sought-after and seasoned international presenter who enjoys sharing her knowledge and empowering nonprofits professionals to think about legacies differently by daring to be creative and innovative.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 601 A/B

Why difficult ethical questions and dialogue are vital for a robust organizational culture

In a polarized time and world, do we avoid difficult ethical conversations? Just the opposite, we dive in headlong, immerse ourselves in it, and come out with confident shared ways to move forward. In this session, we will attempt to find out how! Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Ayesha Ganguly, MA

Photo of Ayesha Ganguly
Amphibian Stage - Director of Development and Community Outreach
Ayesha Ganguly serves as the Director of Development and Community Outreach at a professional non-profit theater Amphibian Stage where her role is to find the investment and resources needed to offer high-quality, socio-culturally relevant storytelling and arts education. She also serves as the founding board member and vice-chair for Transform 1012, a reparative justice project transforming a former Ku Klux Klan headquarters in Fort Worth into a center for arts and community healing.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 802 A/B

Leverage Top Trends for Engaging Your Healthcare Philanthropy Board (Presented by Advancement Resources)

Research shows that donors who are involved in a volunteer capacity with nonprofit organizations they care about are likely to give more than twice as much financially than those who are uninvolved. In short, volunteers are our most committed supporters—yet do we fully leverage the opportunity afforded by their commitment and expertise? In this dynamic session, explore five strategies for ensuring board members feel appreciated, fully utilized, and deeply engaged.  

Audience: Applied

Speakers

David Grieco

Photo of David Grieco
Sinai Health Foundation - Executive Director, Campaign
David Grieco is Executive Director, Campaign at Sinai Health Foundation. In his role, David leads the organization’s unprecedented $50M campaign to establish a Centre for Mature Women’s Health at Sinai Health. David’s experience spans 17 years in Toronto’s non-profit sector, with over a decade of experience in health care philanthropy.

Mark McCampbell

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Advancement Resources - Senior Vice President
Mark is committed to this comprehensive approach, identifying strengths and opportunities, assets and effectiveness in teams, and helping to create near-term change that produces long-term transformation. With more than 36 years of experience in a wide range of development leadership positions, Mark has worked with leaders in health care, higher education, arts, human services, and faith-based institutions to help organizations prepare and take steps toward the next level of growth.

Rachelle Bussell

Photo of Rachelle Bussell
Loma Linda University Health - Senior Vice President of Advancement
Rachelle Bussell is the Senior Vice President of Loma Linda University Health. With over 30 years of experience working with nonprofits, she has been in her current role since 2011. She oversees philanthropy, marketing and communications for 6 hospitals and 8 schools within the university.

Michael Delzotti, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, FAHP

Photo of Michael Delzotti
UK Markey Cancer Foundation - President & CEO
Mike has 29+ years in leadership and began at a Los Angeles foundation; moved to UCLA, then Special Olympics. In Texas, Mike was a leader at Rice University; then led both MD Anderson’s major/planned giving during two $1B+ campaigns and Neurodegeneration Consortium ($65M partner-campaign with MIT, Baylor College of Medicine).


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 801 B

Transform Your Relationships: How to Turn Volunteers and Donors Into Super Supporters (Presented by Bloomerang)

  Volunteers play a vital role in the success of nonprofits. They generously offer their time and expertise and can even become dedicated donors. Research reveals that volunteers are 80% more likely to make larger donations than non-volunteers. Additionally, those who volunteer and donate have a significantly higher retention rate. This panel discussion will utilize data and live examples to explore the correlation between volunteers and financial donors.   If you're hesitant to ask your volunteers to become donors or vice versa, this session is tailored to address your concerns. Join us and unlock the full potential of your volunteers and donors without leaving any untapped opportunities behind.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Lauren Tudor, CAP®, CAP

Photo of Lauren Tudor, CAP®
ARCHITECT Philanthropic Collective - Founder
Meet Lauren Elyse Tudor, an accomplished CAP®-certified operations strategist, fundraiser, and founder of ARCHITECT Philanthropic Collective. Her impressive track record includes leadership positions at major organizations such as the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Public Allies Cincinnati, YWCA, United Way, and All On The Line (formerly Organizing for America OFA), the campaign to re-elect President Barack Obama. Lauren is a fierce advocate for advancing social justice movements, specifically women's reproductive rights.

Josh Meyer, MBA

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Bloomerang - VP, Demand Generation
With over 20 years of experience in fundraising, volunteer management, and marketing, Joshua Meyer brings a wealth of expertise to his current position as the VP of Market Engagement at Bloomerang. As a valued member of the Bloomerang marketing team, Josh spearheads all thought leadership, partner, and field event initiatives for the organization.

Rachel Muir, CFRE

Photo of Rachel Muir
rachelmuir.com - Keynotes, custom training & retreats
When she was 26, Rachel Muir launched Girlstart, a non-profit empowering girls in math, science, engineering and technology in the living room of her apartment with $500 and a credit card. Several years later she had raised over 10 million and was featured on Oprah, CNN, and the Today show. Today Rachel delivers workshops and offers a monthly membership, League of Extraordinary Fundraisers, transforming people into confident, successful fundraisers.

Chad Barger

Photo of Chad Barger
Chad Barger, CFRE, ACNP helps nonprofit professionals fundraise more efficiently and effectively. He is the founder of the firm Productive Fundraising, which focuses on bringing actionable, research-based fundraising tactics to small and mid-sized nonprofits. He is a top-rated conference speaker and webinar presenter as well as a master trainer of boards that “don’t want to fundraise.” Chad is also a strategic advisor and coach to many non-profit fundraisers, executive directors and board members. He takes pride in being a qualified curator of top-notch fundraising news and research through his weekly fundraiserchad e-blasts and popular free monthly webinar series.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 716 A/B

Challenges of Being A Black Male In Fundraising

Join an engaging conversation about being a Black Man in fundraising. This will be a safe space to talk about real situations and outcomes. Are you open-minded and want to learn how to be more aware of situations? Be ready to listen, learn, and share!

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Stephen Peeler

Photo of Stephen Peeler
Trust for the National Mall - Senior Director of Philanthropy
Stephen E. Peeler, Senior Director of Philanthropy at the Trust for the National Mall, is a seasoned professional with an impressive track record in fundraising and organizational management. Stephen is responsible for developing and executing effective strategies that help the organization achieve its annual operating and campaign revenue goals. He is a confident leader who brings his expertise in fundraising and operational best practices to the Trust, to achieve excellence.

Marcus Brewer, MBA

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Change Happens - Director of Development
Has been Blessed to work in the fund and people-raising space for over 10 years. Much of his experience has been in small shops where he’s worn many hats, often at the same time. His experience includes grant writing, foundation relations, corporate relations, strategic partnerships, government relations, marketing, admissions, and a few more. He currently serves as Director of Development for Change Happens in Houston, TX, whose mission is to “Help people empower themselves.”

Christopher Beck

Photo of Christopher Beck
ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - Senior Philanthropic Advisor, Southeast
Currently serves as Senior Advisor, Principal Gifts and Inclusive Philanthropy, Southeast Region for ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Christopher enjoys connecting individuals with causes they are enthusiastic about. He is a seasoned fundraising advisor with over 20 years of experience serving non-profits, including ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Boy Scouts of America (Nashville, TN).

Scott Russell

Photo of Scott Russell
Passionate consultant, facilitator, and former CEO on a mission to empower non-profits to thrive through strategic planning, leadership coaching, and board development. Making it easier for leaders to lead, one innovative solution at a time. Scott has worked alongside non-profits across the country, applying his unique perspective and skills to co-design solutions to their biggest and most urgent problems.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 602 A/B

Planning and Budgeting for Fundraising Success

Fundraising goals are often fill-the-gap numbers. The finance team created a budget and worked backwards to determine the fundraising goal. As a profession, we know how well this works! Let’s change that process. This session gives development professionals the knowledge and tools they need to build meaningful goals and budgets.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kerri Mollard, MA, CGC, WBE

Photo of Kerri Mollard
Mollard Consulting - Founder & CEO
Kerri Mollard, CEO, is a sought-after consultant and speaker, and a respected authority on fundraising, board governance, and planning. She has served more than 100 clients, and thousands more through speaking, since founding Mollard Consulting in 2003. Prior to consulting, she worked in positions as varied as PR coordinator, development director, and executive director. She has an MA from Indiana University, BA from Ohio State University, and a Certificate of Nonprofit Board Consulting from BoardSource.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 701B

Unlocking the Potential of Donor Advised Funds: Insights from the National Study on DAFs

Discover the potential of donor-advised funds (DAFs) in your fundraising strategy. Join us for this interactive session based on the groundbreaking DAF Research Collaborative study. Learn how to engage DAF donors, identify DAF giving strategies, and create customized solicitation plans. Transform your fundraising and better serve your donors' philanthropic goals.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Jeremy Wells, CFRE, MA

Photo of Jeremy Wells
The Saint Paul & Minnesota Community Foundation - Vice President of Philanthropic Services
Jeremy R. Wells, MA, CFRE, serves as Senior Vice President at the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, one of the largest community foundations in the country. Wells is an adjunct faculty member at the University of St. Thomas and a frequently requested speaker in philanthropy. Wells is a former AFP Global Board Member, former AFP PAC Chair, and was also selected as a 40 Under 40 recipient by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal in 2018.

Dan Heist, PhD

Photo of Dan Heist
Brigham Young University - Assistant Professor
Dr. Heist is an Assistant Professor of Nonprofit Management at Brigham Young University. He earned a master’s degree in Philanthropic Studies from the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and a PhD in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania. His research focuses on philanthropy and fundraising. His nine years of professional fundraising experience inform his research and teaching. He is a leading expert on donor-advised funds and co-founder of the Donor-Advised Fund Research Collaborative.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 714 A/B

Must Wear Pants: Legacy Events Coming out of Covid

Virtual events during Covid enabled guests to attend from the comfort of their homes wearing cozy athleisure. We’ll share how a legacy event went a pre-pandemic in-person decline to a virtual upswing, and convinced guests that the renewed in-person event was an exciting new way to engage with the organization.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Sarah Cissna, MFA, CSEP

Photo of Sarah Cissna
The Side Lobby - Event Consultant
Based in Washington, DC, Sarah’s firm, The Side Lobby, helps small and mid-sized nonprofits and arts organizations achieve fundraising and marketing goals through special events. She recently completed her term as a director on the International Live Events Association’s board of governors, and she co-facilitates the Equity Team at her children’s elementary school. MFA: Catholic University, Theatre: Directing. BA: College of William and Mary, Theatre. Certificate in Event Management: George Washington University.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 801 B

Stewardship: Why We Need to Say Thank You" So Many Times

Saying thank you to donors should be easy yet many fundraisers are left wondering why they didn't get the next gift, a bigger gift, or any response from their loyal donors. What are we doing wrong? This session will discuss different ideas to meet the donors needs.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Pamela Perkins Dwyer, MA, CFRM

Photo of Pamela Perkins Dwyer
Los Angeles Master Chorale - Major Gifts Officer
Pamela Perkins Dwyer, Major Gifts Officer at the Los Angeles Master Chorale in downtown Los Angeles. Pamela has fundraised for over 20 years and believes that good stewardship has led to her success. She currently serves on the AFP Foundation Board and recently served on the Global Board. She currently serves on community boards. Pamela has a bachelor’s from Howard University, master’s from Boston University and her Certificate in Fundraising Management from Indiana University.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 718 A

Mastering the Art of Year-Round Donor Engagement: Strategies to Acquire, Retain, and Inspire Donors (Presented by GiveSmart)

In a landscape marked by dwindling donors, retention, and engagement, it's time for bold steps toward sustainable growth. Join us to learn how to identify donor gaps and opportunities, implement a year-round fundraising approach, and expand your donor base to raise more in 2024 and beyond. Learn how to understand your fundraising outcomes and how they fit into your organization’s overall financial puzzle to identify potential fundraising opportunities and donor segments. Walk away with actionable fundraising insights and real-life nonprofit fundraising campaign ideas.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kirsten Primozic

Photo of Kirsten Primozic
As Product Operations Manager for GiveSmart by Community Brands, Kirsten Primozic revels in delving deep into data and analytics to unearth the narratives they reveal. Kirsten's expertise extends to helping nonprofits leverage fundraising insights gleaned from extensive data analysis, empowering them to make informed decisions that drive increased donations. She finds satisfaction in transforming seemingly endless data into actionable strategies that make an impact.

Cara Dickerson

Photo of Cara Dickerson
Cara Dickerson, Vice President of Customer Success and Account Management at GiveSmart by Community Brands, leads a dedicated team committed to empowering thousands of nonprofits in achieving their fundraising and financial goals and advancing their missions through GiveSmart's one connected fundraising platform. With nearly 17 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Cara's profound dedication to changemakers drives her forward.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 718 B

Why Direct Mail + Digital is the Perfect Pairing to Recruit Young Donors (Presented by Sylogist MISSION CRM)

The excitement of receiving and reading the mail has shifted from the inbox back to the mailbox and surprisingly, this wave of enthusiasm is led by the Millennial, Gen Z and Gen X cohorts. Join us for an interactive discussion with industry experts who are riding the wave and seizing the opportunity to reimagine a new future for direct response to reach new cohorts by leveraging the latest innovations and insights.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Justin McCord

Photo of Justin McCord
RKD - Senior Vice President
Justin McCord is an industry-leading marketer with two decades of guiding commercial and nonprofit organizations to success. As SVP of Marketing and Communications for RKD Group, he acts as industry advisor while overseeing brand and thought leadership, including hosting the award-winning RKD Group: Thinkers podcast. Justin served as Co-Chair for the 2023 Bridge Conference and currently serves as Marketing Co-Chair for the Direct Marketing Association of Washington Board of Directors.

Tim Tribe

Photo of Tim Tribe
Children's Hospital London, Ontario - VP Philanthropy, Children's Health Foundation
Tim joined the Children’s Health Foundation in January 2023. In his role as Vice President, Philanthropy; Tim oversees all of the Foundation's fundraising activities including Campaign, Children’s Miracle Network, Community Relations, Integrated Direct Response, Major Gifts, Planned Giving, and Signature Events.

Rapinder Dhinsa

Photo of Rapinder Dhinsa
Make a Wish Canada - Director Mass Marketing
Rapinder is an expert strategist and storyteller, and helps guide nonprofit organizations with a holistic approach to fundraising. She has worked with numerous organizations across Canada and the U.S., including UNICEF Canada, Save the Children, MSF/Doctors Without Borders, Guide Dogs for the Blind, CAMH and many others. She is a self-proclaimed fundraising nerd and is passionate about serving great missions to make the world a more compassionate.

Michael Johnston

Photo of Michael Johnston
Company Hewitt and Johnston Consultants Inc. - President and Co-Founder
Mike Johnston has been a fundraiser for 34+ years and has worked with 100’s of social impact and charitable organizations in Canada, the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific. Mike is an expert in fundraising innovation and integrated fundraising – especially in the use of digital technologies and their effective integration with traditional and new fundraising methods. He is the founder of the leading, global consultancy, Hewitt and Johnston Consultants (www.hjcnewmedia.com) in 1992.

Tommy Spann

Photo of Tommy Spann
With over 20 years of expertise in nonprofit database technology, Tompkins "Tommy" Spann has committed his career to empowering organizations. Since establishing his own nonprofit in 2000, he's aided thousands in optimizing their systems for online donations, email marketing, advocacy, and CRM, utilizing platforms like Salesforce and Microsoft. Passionate about leveraging technology for impactful outcomes, he believes in efficient operations and data-driven decisions.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 715 A/B

(CANCELLED) Exploring the Influence, Trends, and Education of the Hispanic and Latinx Community in American Philanthropy

Join Anthony for an insightful discussion that delves into the dynamic world of philanthropy within the Hispanic and Latinx community in the United States. This session aims to shed light on the profound impact, evolving trends, and the crucial role that education will play in shaping the philanthropic landscape among this diverse and vibrant demographic for years to come.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Anthony Alonso

Photo of Anthony Alonso
Catapult Fundraising, Inc. - President
Anthony is one of the nation’s leading fundraising consultants with over three decades of expertise in capital campaigns, direct marketing and telefundraising. He is the AFP NJ 2021 recipient of the Consulting Excellence Award. He is also the 2023 recipient of the AFP Las Vegas Outstanding Fundraising Professional award. Anthony served on the boards of AFP New Jersey, AFP Las Vegas, The Giving Institute, Giving USA, and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 803 A/B

Just Do It!: Kickstarting Your Inclusive Fundraising & Communications Practice

1 in 4 Americans are disabled. 20% of Generation Z are LGBTQ+. The BIPOC-identifying population grows yearly. Inclusion cannot be an aspiration; it has to happen now. Informed by lived experience, Queer fundraiser Ali Kane and Hard-of-Hearing social media expert Katie Norton offer proven practices, prioritizing accessibility, representation, and intersectionality.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Ali Kane, MA

Photo of Ali Kane
Perkins School for the Blind - Institutional Giving Officer
Ali Kane (she/they) is a Queer nonprofit leader and lifelong learner committed to intersectional inclusion and equity. They further this work through LGBTQ+ inclusion workshops for organizations across industries, advocating for health equity as Grants Management Specialist at Family Health Center of Worcester, and serving as Treasurer of Love Your Labels. Past accomplishments: Boston Future Leaders Class of 2023, appointment to American Public Garden Association IDEA Committee.

Katie Norton

Photo of Katie Norton
Perkins School for the Blind - Social Media Strategist
Katie Norton is an extremely passionate advocate for folks with disabilities, especially the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. As a person with hearing loss, Katie wears hearing aids and uses social media to spread awareness about the disability community and access needs, as well as empowering others with hearing loss. Currently, Katie is the Social Media Strategist at Perkins School for the Blind, focusing on digital storytelling and disability inclusion online.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:00pm - 1:30pm
Learning Lab 1

Navigating Donor Journeys: Strategies for Engaging Nonprofit Supporters - (Learning Lab) Presented by Microsoft

In the dynamic landscape of nonprofit fundraising, understanding and optimizing the donor journey is paramount. In this Learning Lab session, we’ll delve into ways that Microsoft solutions can help your fundraising team streamline the journey building process, create meaningful connections with supporters from acquisition to long-term advocacy, and build stronger connections.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kristin Fleek

Photo of Kristin Fleek
Kristin Fleek has held several leadership and individual contributor positions at Great Plains and Microsoft for 25+ years, since her career shift from the Education sector. In her current role, Kristin is the Business Applications Lead for Microsoft’s Tech for Social Impact Team, which focuses on the nonprofit sector globally. She leads the strategy to drive growth and health of the business and exceed fiscal year targets, working with marketing, partner and sales team leaders,

Jim Ballou

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Microsoft - Technical Specialist, Tech for Social Impact
My name is Jim Ballou and I have been working at Microsoft for 2 years as a Technical Specialist for Microsoft’s Tech for Social impact team. I help our Nonprofit customers transform their operations through better technology solutions. I specialize in the Dynamics365 suite of applications, which includes customer relationship management (CRM), and the Power Platform, which enables users to create low code no code solutions.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 602 A/B

Curating THE Volunteer Experience

Looking to upgrade your volunteer program? Come learn & dialogue on how you can elevate the experiences your volunteers have with your organization - while maximizing the nearly $30 we save due to their gift of time.

Education Track(s): Volunteer Involvement

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Adrienne McDade Taylor, CFRE, MA, MBA

Photo of Adrienne McDade Taylor
Skystone Partners - Senior Consultant
Adrienne Taylor is a Sr. Consultant at Skystone Partners. Adrienne started her career in fundraising through the AFP-Greater Cincinnati Chapter’s diversity program, New Faces of Fundraising, and now serves on the leadership team. She is the 2023 Greater Cincinnati Chapter President and AFP Global Board Member. Her commitment to IDEA is what keeps her actively engaged with AFP. She is a proud mom, wife, member of Kaleidoscope Investment Group and loves theatrical makeup.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 701B

Building Healthy Relationships Inside Your Organization to Best Serve Donors

When it comes to relationship management, fundraisers often focus on prospects and donors. Equally as important is building relationships with colleagues inside your organization to best serve your donors. In this session, we’ll explore how best to manage relationships with supervisors, program staff, and board members to maximize mission impact.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Maliha Hasan

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University of Toronto - Director, Foundation Relations
Maliha Hasan is currently Director Foundation Relations at University of Toronto. She has +12 years of experience across corporate, multilateral and not-for-profit organizations in roles spanning fundraising, resource mobilization, external relations and project management. Maliha has an MBA and in 2021, she was a part of AFP IDEA/Blackbaud Emerging Leaders Program.

Lisa Chmiola, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, CSPG, MS

Photo of Lisa Chmiola
Currently the Director of Gift Planning for the University of Missouri-St. Louis, she has served in major gifts and gift planning roles in education (public and private) and religious institutions, following initial career experience in event-based philanthropy. She also serves as the Chief Fablanthropist for Fablanthropy (the intersection of fabulous and philanthropy), working with nonprofit organizations and fundraising professionals providing consulting, training, and coaching services, particularly on legacy giving strategies.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 801 A

Less Attrition, More Funds Recipes to Improve Stewardship and Philanthropic Culture From Donors and Boards

Dynamic, Intercultural, and Practical Session, Presented by speakers from Brazil and Mexico. Less Attrition, More Funds Recipes to Improve Stewardship and Philanthropic Culture From Donors and Boards will be the essential message. The importance of the key concepts of leadership, philanthropic culture, and stewardship will also be reviewed to overcome burnout and be successful in the fundraising plan.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Flavia Lang, MBA

Photo of Flavia Lang
Tools4Change Brasil - Managing Partner
Flavia is a curious and creative fundraising entrepreneur who helps NGOs to connect and develop meaningful relationship with individual donors. With entrepreneurial vision, creative leadership to inspire and engage teams to overcome challenges and goals, empowerment management style, the desire to turn the impossible possible, and a successful record in opening, restructuring, expansion and exponential growth of NPO. She is also a cofounder of Women in Fundraising Brazil.

Ana Flavia Godoi, MBA

Photo of Ana Flavia Godoi
Women in Fundraising - Founder and CEO
She is the founder of Women in Fundraising, providing hands-on, comprehensive fundraising leadership for female fundraisers around the world. For 12 years she was on Brazilian Fundraising Association’s board. Ana has over 25 years of experience in fundraising for non-profits and foundations, focusing on strategic and development planning, major and corporate gifts. During pandemic, she raised 36 millions dollars and helped more than 500 NGOs to develop better negotiation techniques.

Carlos Madrid, MBA

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Fundación Liceo Sofia Labastida IAP - MBA
Carlos Madrid has more than 30 years of experience in Institutional Development and Fundraising, holds a Bachelor in Communication, and Masters. He is an accredited consultant, and was Development Director of the Hospital Infantil de Mexico (1994-2013). Director of the Banorte and Gruma Foundations (2006-2013); past Chairman of the Junta de Asistencia Privada del Distrito Federal (2014-2020). Actually, independent consultant mainly in Board Development and Corporate Volunteeering and treasurer of AFP Mexican Foundation.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 801 B

Nine Simple Ideas to Increase Your Legacy Gifts

Finding your best legacy prospects can be challenging and time consuming. In this session, you’ll learn about simple solutions that you can implement that will have you spending less time searching and more time converting legacy prospects into legacy donors.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Marie-Helene Boubane

Photo of Marie-Helene Boubane
Amnesty International Canada - Director of Fundraising
Marie-Hélène was promoted to Director of Fundraising in July 2022. She previously worked at MSF (Doctors Without Borders) and CARE Canada. And has worked in several fundraising positions from Direct Mail, Monthly Giving to Major Gifts. In the last year, the legacy program revenue at Amnesty was the highest ever for the organization, a 306% increase over 2020 and a 129% increase over 2019.

Ryan Garnett, CFRE

Photo of Ryan Garnett
Harvey McKinnon Associates - Head of Integrated Marketing
Ryan is an experienced consultant with more than 10 years of experience helping non-profits raise more money for their causes. At Harvey McKinnon Associates, he’s the Head of Integrated Marketing and helps clients develop strategies for integrating their efforts through all channels including direct mail, telemarketing, e-mail, and social media. Ryan has been a speaker at a number of fundraising conferences/events including the AFP Congress, AHP International Conference, and the CAGP Conference.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 715 A/B

Realigning fundraising for the "dollars up, donors down" era

The “Pareto Principle” (80/20 rule) is still referenced for fundraising planning, if only to assert that it no longer holds. Using Fundraising Effectiveness Project data participants will explore a new “principle” based on current gift distributions (fewer smaller gifts, more larger ones) while also experimenting with other new planning tools. Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Current and Prospective Donor Research

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Jonathan Durnford

Photo of Jonathan Durnford
DataLake Nonprofit Research - President
Jonathan Durnford is founder and President/CEO of DataLake Nonprofit Research. Jon is an Affiliated Scholar of the University of San Diego Nonprofit Institute and former Affiliated Scholar of the National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS, Urban Institute). Jon is key developer of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project (FEP) National Database, and serves on the FEP Steering Committee, Giving USA Methodology Task Force, and AFP Research Council.

Genevieve Shaker, MA, PhD

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Lilly Family School of Philanthropy IUPUI - Associate Professor
Genevieve Shaker, Ph.D., is associate professor of philanthropic studies and the Donald A. Campbell Chair in Fundraising Leadership in the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. A university fundraiser for two decades, her research focuses on fundraising and fundraisers, particularly within higher education. She is a recipient of the AFP/Skystone Partners Prize for Research and AFP’s “Emerging Scholar” award.

Erik Daubert

Photo of Erik Daubert
Erik Daubert, MBA, ACFRE is a recognized leader in fundraising and philanthropy and has over 30 years of experience in nonprofit management, consulting, education, and research. He is the founding chair of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project and a faculty member at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. An AFP Master Trainer, Erik is a frequent speaker at national and international conferences and has authored many works on fundraising best practices and trends.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 717 A/B

Chasing Money, Power, Respect and the Uncharitable Impact of Inequitable Fundraising

Presented by a national award-winning change agent for equitable philanthropy, this session challenges how fund development can contribute to inequity and harmful dominant cultural norms. While providing solutions to: engage a broader donor base, attract diverse talent in the field, and build authentic collaboration and deeper engagement with directly-impacted populations.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Akilah Wallace

Photo of Akilah Wallace
HERitage Giving Fund - JAMYCE, LLC
Akilah S. Wallace provides social impact consulting with 20+ years of expertise in events, fund development, nonprofit leadership and public speaking and training. She is the founder and chair of HERitage Giving Fund, a Black women’s giving circle. National honors include the Inaugural Black Women Give Back List presented by Women's Philanthropy Institute, Black Philanthropy Month and The WISE Fund and Young Black and Giving Back Institute's Philanthropist of the Year.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 601 A/B

Learn About The Advanced Credential in Fundraising, Its time to Get Involved in ACFRE

The Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) credential recognizes individuals who have demonstrated: Join us for a lively and informative session to learn “all about” the ACFRE process. Members of the ACFRE Board will explain the process and ACFRE’s will answer your questions. .  

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Timothy Logan, ACFRE, CFRE, FAHP

Photo of Timothy Logan
Company Synergy Direct Marketing Solutions - Vice President, Mid-Level Solutions
Timothy D. Logan, CFRE, ACFRE, FAHP, FCEP is Vice President of Mid-Level Giving Solutions at Synergy Direct Marketing Solutions. He holds a Masters of Nonprofit Management (MNO) from Case Western Reserve University. Tim is one of only ten fundraising professionals to hold both the ACFRE and the FAHP advanced certifications.

Audrey Kintzi, ACFRE, MA, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Audrey Kintzi
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota - Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and the Executive Director of the M. A. in Philanthropy and Development Program
Audrey Kintzi is the Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and the Executive Director of the M. A. in Philanthropy and Development Program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Ms. Kintzi has been working in the development field for over 35 years and is a certified AFP Master Trainer and holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology (with Distinction) from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy.

William Bartolini, CFRE, PhD, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of William Bartolini
An AFP Master Fundraising Teacher, coach, and counselor in philanthropy, Bill Bartolini (PhD, ACFRE) has been a professional fundraiser for 40 years, recently retiring from Ohio State where he solicited gifts of $5M+. He’s worked for several universities, including George Washington, Northeastern, Kent State, Ball State, and a variety of nonprofits.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 718 A

Corporate Giving Officers’ Top Ten Turn-Offs, Straight from the Donor’s Mouth

Corporate giving officers are inundated by nonprofits asking for money. But do nonprofits really know what these corporations are looking for, and what turns them off? In this session, Michelle Cramer will facilitate a candid conversation with two corporate giving officers, one being her daughter, and they’re holding nothing back.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Karen Blickley

Photo of Karen Blickley
For two decades, Karen drove philanthropic impact as VP of the Nationwide Foundation in Columbus, Ohio. The Fortune 100 company has invested $670+ million philanthropically since 2000. Under Karen’s guidance, $450 million enriched nationwide initiatives, earning AFP's 2017 Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation Award. She pioneered Nationwide’s Associates Helping Associates program, the Community Impact Model, fostered collaborations with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and has served on national nonprofit boards. Now retired, Karen enjoys giving back to the profession.

Katie Cramer, MA

Photo of Katie Cramer
Big Lots - Manager, Philanthropy & Events
In her role at Big Lots, a national retailer with 1,400 stores and more than 30,000 associates, Katie leads the organization’s charitable giving and employee engagement efforts. She oversees the Big Lots Foundation’s grantmaking, distributing $5 million annually to 250 nonprofits around the country, and manages the company’s point-of-sale campaign program, engaging customers to raise millions of dollars for Big Lots’ nonprofit partners. Katie earned her Masters from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Michelle Cramer, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Michelle Cramer
Cramer & Associates - President & CEO
Michelle Cramer, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer is President & CEO of Cramer & Associates, a women-owned, Hispanic-owned fundraising consulting firm. Founded in 1987, the firm specializes in feasibility studies, campaigns, and serves nonprofits of every size and sector. In 2015, Michelle was awarded the “Outstanding Professional Fundraiser of the Year” award by AFP Central Ohio. She was also a contributing author to “The Nonprofit Consulting Playbook: Winning Strategies from 25 Leaders in the Field.”


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 714 A/B

Predictions and Personalization: Leveraging AI to Supercharge Your Nonprofit through Precision Philanthropy (Presented by DonorSearch)

Explore the transformative power of AI in philanthropy with 'Predictions and Personalization.' This presentation unveils how nonprofits can harness artificial intelligence to personalize donor engagement, optimize fundraising strategies, and predict giving trends. Learn to leverage precision philanthropy through a practical blend of Predictive and Generative AI for amplified impact.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Nathan Chappell, CFRE, MA, MBA

Photo of Nathan Chappell
DonorSearch AI - Senior Vice President
As a renowned thought leader, AI inventor and award-winning author, Nathan Chappell one of the world’s foremost experts on the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and generosity. Nathan is SVP at DonorSearch AI, Co-Founder of Fundraising.AI and co-author of The Generosity Crisis: The Case for Radical Connection to Solve Humanity’s Greatest Challenges. Nathan serves on the International Committee for Information Technology Standards, the OpenAI Users Forum and the AI for Good Foundation.

Scott Rosenkrans

Photo of Scott Rosenkrans
DonorSearch - Associate Vice President, DonorSearch Ai
Scott Rosenkrans is the Associate Vice President of DonorSearch Ai and has been with the organization for three years. He began his journey in the nonprofit sector twelve years ago as a prospect researcher. He quickly became fascinated with data as he noticed the organization that he previously worked for was amassing a wealth of information but was unsure how to efficiently use the data and resources to its full potential.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 803 A/B

Digital Marketing & Fundraising in 2024: How To Align Campaign Strategies To Maximize Results (Presented by Feathr )

Digital Marketing & Fundraising in 2024: How To Align Campaign Strategies To Maximize Results   In a world where digital interaction is paramount, nonprofits face the constant challenge of standing out and making a meaningful impact.   In this session, we’ll explore which trends in digital technology genuinely matter for nonprofits and how these can be leveraged to maximize impact.   We'll delve into: How to create digital fundraising campaigns that resonate with today's easily distracted donors, ensuring your message cuts through the noise. Practical tips on boosting your nonprofit's digital and social media advertising, email marketing, and search marketing strategies to enhance donor engagement and acquisition in 2024. Real-life examples from growing nonprofits that have successfully implemented an omnichannel strategy to elevate their digital fundraising outcomes. Join us to sharpen your digital fundraising strategy and enhance your nonprofit's digital presence.   Whether your goal is to attract new supporters, strengthen bonds with current ones, or boost your online impact, this session is your key to success in 2024.  

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Aidan Augustin

Photo of Aidan Augustin
Feathr - Chief Revenue Officer and President
Aidan Augustin is the co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Feathr, the Nonprofit Marketing Platform, which supports over a thousand associations and charitable orgs with modern digital marketing technology. Aidan is on a mission to elevate nonprofit marketing as a discipline and a profession, believing it to be a force multiplier for good that remains largely untapped.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 716 A/B

From Talk to Walk: Building a Diverse Donor Base through Authentic Partnerships (Presented by the Alford Group)

Forget "donor engagement" myths. The time has come to build authentic partnerships with donors of color, whose passion and dedication can transform your organization. This session isn't just about buzzwords - it's about actionable strategies from experts and donors themselves.   Learn how to:   Go beyond tokenism: Discover effective ways to identify and connect with diverse donors on their terms and values.   Break down the barriers: Create an inclusive environment that fosters genuine engagement and is rooted in trust and mutual respect.   Spark lasting commitment: Hear firsthand from donors on what ignites their passion and fuels their giving.   Come join us in creating a movement, not just a moment by discovering how to create a sustainable relationship model that embraces the power of diverse voices in driving meaningful change for your organization’s mission and making the world a better place for ALL people.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Roger Ali, MBA, CFRE, CFRE, MBA, C. Dir (Chartered Director)

Photo of Roger Ali, MBA, CFRE
With more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Roger D. Ali specializes in: Governance, Major and Principal Gifts, and Campaign Counsel. Some of his previous experience has included: President & CEO, Niagara Health Foundation, Vice, President, Development, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation and Executive Director, Bishop Strathan School Foundation. He is a Certified Fundraising Executive and currently serves on the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Global; where he is Chair-Elect.

Tycely Williams

Photo of Tycely Williams
Bipartisan Policy Center - Chief Development Officer
Williams is a Certified Fundraising Executive, and in her more than 20-year career she has inspired individuals and institutions to invest more than $100 million dollars in charitable causes. Williams leads the Association of Fundraising Professionals global Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access Committee; chairs the governing boards of Monument Academy Public Charter School, the Nonprofit Alliance Foundation, and Rising Media Stars; and teaches Fundraising and Leadership at The Pennsylvania State University.

Ambar Syed, CFRE, B.A.

Photo of Ambar Syed
Peel Children's Aid Foundation - Director of Philanthropy
Ambar Syed is a nonprofit specialist with a decade of experience in fund development, grants, and corporate/foundation partnerships. She is currently Director of Philanthropy at Peel Children's Aid Foundation, and has a background ranging from grassroots organizations to international development. A second-generation Pakistani Canadian, she has in-depth experience working for the Muslim philanthropic community across various cultures and regions, and chairs the Muslim Philanthropy Network, dedicated to bringing together the diverse community of Muslim fundraisers.

Jaya Mootoo

Photo of Jaya Mootoo
N/A - Equity Seeker
“I am a detail-oriented and driven professional consultant and speaker, poised with an entrepreneurial flare for seeing potential, identifying opportunities and reaping results.” Anti-Oppression and Equity are part of my core values, improving both in the non-profit sector is my priority. With over 20 years of social service and community development experience, I dove right into my new chosen profession, and I added another level to my education by completing the Humber Fundraising Management program.

Danny Vargas

Photo of Danny Vargas
American Latino Veterans Asso. & VARcom Solutions - Founder & CEO
Danny Vargas is a nationally recognized business, community, and board leader. He chaired the effort to authorize the American Latino Museum and chairs the American Latino Veterans Association, the Virginia Civil Rights Advisory Committee, and a Northern Virginia economic development initiative. He is an Air Force veteran, President of VARCom Solutions, and former executive at AOL and France Telecom. He was named among the Most Influential Latinos in America and Most Influential people in DC.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

2:30pm - 3:00pm
Learning Lab 2

Activating Board Engagement (Learning Lab) Presented by CCS Fundraising

Have you ever found yourself asking how to engage your Board in a more meaningful way? This session tackles exactly that question by sharing how intensive efforts to better engage Trustees, took root with unique nonprofit Boards across various sectors to generate more meaningful and active engagement of Board.

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kris Kuhns, MA

Photo of Kris Kuhns
CCS Fundraising - Senior Vice President
Kris thrives working with complex organizations and those building their first fundraising program. She has run projects including Strategic Planning, Campaigns, Planning Studies, Analytics, and Interim Development. Kris serves on the Board of Directors (President Elect) of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – DC Chapter (Washington, DC). She also serves as Co-Chair of Education for the Bridge Conference (2024).


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 601 A/B

From Young Pro to Emerging Leader: How to maximize AFP to build your career!

What we are hearing: “Emerging Leaders are jack-of-all-trades, masters of none.” With a projected 10-year growth in the fundraising profession of 14%, emerging leaders need to strategically maximize their growth potential. Hear how four young, diverse professionals catapulted their careers by maximizing their professional experience to become leaders.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Allison Plattsmier, CFRE, Ed.D, CAP, ANCP, GPC

Photo of Allison Plattsmier
Jordan Thomas Foundation - Executive Director
Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier has over twelve years of experience in the nonprofit sector, has worked with 75+ organizations and raised approximately $5 million. She currently serves as Executive Director of Edgehill Neighborhood Partnership and CEO of AQP Consulting. She was the youngest recipient of AFP's Outstanding Young Professional in 2018 and is a graduate of AFP's WII Leadership Development Program. She currently chairs AFP’s Emerging Leaders Mentor program.

Jarrod Williams, CFRE, MBLI

Photo of Jarrod Williams
Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh (ULGP) - Director of Development and External Relations
Jarrod Williams is a courageous, strategic, and results-orientated development professional that is committed to creating a true culture of philanthropy for non-profits. He is currently the Director of Development and External Relations for the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh (ULGP). He is responsible for planning, implementing, and directing comprehensive strategies for fundraising, marketing, events, and volunteer programs. Jarrod is a proud Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and member of the Men of Color in Development (MOCID).

Dzenan Berberovic, CFRE, MA

Photo of Dzenan Berberovic
Avera Health - Chief Philanthropy Officer
Refugee of war. Immigrant. Difference-maker. Dzenan Berberovic (JE-nahn Bur-bur-oh-vik) was born in one of the poorest countries of the world, war-torn Bosnia. A resident of a refugee camp and Germany for six years, Dzenan and his mother immigrated to the US when he was nine years old. Today, Dzenan he serves Avera, one of the largest health systems, as Chief Philanthropy Officer. Inspired by a stranger’s generosity, Dzenan was led to his life’s work: philanthropy.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 701B

Corporate Partnership: Handling the Hard Questions

Exclusivity, removing company logos and saying no to employee volunteerism are just a few challenging conversations that charities have with their corporate partners regularly. Learn the mindset and approach you need to tackle these conversations and using real-world examples, we will define a clear approach to respond.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Heather Nelson, CFRE, MBA

Photo of Heather Nelson
BridgeRaise - President and Founder
Heather Nelson is founder and president at corporate fundraising consultancy, BridgeRaise. Heather started her career in program management and fundraising at small nonprofits and for 15+ years has focused on corporate partnership. She has supported 100s of charities raise money from companies by prioritizing aligned values. Heather holds her MBA from Schulich School of Business and is a certified fundraising executive. She is an experienced teacher having taught Introduction to Fundraising at Toronto Metropolitan University.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 714 A/B

Be Bold Better: What It Takes To Create Transformational Gifts

This highly interactive session will deepen participants’ understanding of what transformational giving is and how they and Board partners can develop the skills and actionable tools to create transformational gifts through concepts like BIG VISION, Signature Language, Bold Listening, the Science of Rituals, and leave invigorated to Be Bold Better!

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Christy Passmore, MA

Photo of Christy Passmore
Vision Philanthropy Group - Senior Advisor
Christy Passmore joined Vision Philanthropy Group July, 2022 following almost 40 years in staff leadership roles honing skills ranging from mass communications and volunteer management to major gifts development. More than half her career was spent at Vanderbilt University (1990-2011) where she managed two campaigns: $50 million to build a free-standing Childrens Hospital immediately followed by the planning and implementation of Vanderbilt’s first billion dollar-plus campaign, Shape the Future, which secured more than $1.8 billion.

Susan Holt, MA

Photo of Susan Holt
Vision Philanthropy Group - President and Senior Consultant
Susan Holt, fundraising specialist with 40 years experience leading/consulting education, health care, and social service/arts organizations, founded Vision Philanthropy Group in 2009. CDO at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University Medical School, Weill-Cornell Medical College, National Jewish Health. Specialist in campaigns and training in major gift fundraising. She speaks on transformational giving, campaigns, psychology of giving and philanthropic cultures. Managed campaigns from $10 million to $1.3 billion, and partnered in securing nearly $2 billion.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 718 A

How Capital Campaigns are Changing and What You Can Learn from National Organizations’ Experience

Leaders from three large, national organizations (ACLU, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, and UNICEF USA) will describe how their national capital campaigns have differed from other campaigns, and what innovative lessons and new approaches can be applied to all capital campaigns to make them more successful.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Jethro Miller, MA

Photo of Jethro Miller
Clinton Foundation - Chief Development Officer
Jethro Miller is Chief Development Officer for Planned Parenthood Federation of America and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, leading the organization’s national fundraising program. Prior to joining Planned Parenthood in 2014, he spent six years at the American Red Cross, serving as Vice President for Principal and Major Gifts. He has also served as Director of Development for Children's Rights, a national advocacy organization, and as a consultant for CCS Fundraising.

Renée Cutting, MA

Photo of Renée Cutting
UNICEF USA - Chief Philanthropy Officer
V. Renée Cutting leads UNICEF USA’s strategic partnerships as Chief Philanthropy Officer. In her inaugural year, Renée inspired the individual and institutional teams to achieve over $1 billion in philanthropic revenue supporting the world’s most vulnerable children. With 25 years of experience, Renée has led at premier institutions including the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Mount Sinai, Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention, and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Mark Wier, MBA

Photo of Mark Wier
ACLU - Chief Development Officer
Mark Wier is Chief Development Officer for the American Civil Liberties Union. He leads a national team that collaborates with 50 ACLU affiliates nationwide. Since taking the role in 2012, Mark led the most ambitious capital campaign in the ACLU’s history, the Centennial Campaign, which raised over $2.7 billion. Prior to the ACLU, Mark worked in Development at the International Rescue Committee, WNET/Thirteen New York, and The New York Public Library.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 801 A

AI for Fundraising: Your Quick-Start Guide (Presented by Microsoft)

AI seems to be everywhere, but how is it relevant to your development team? In this session, we’ll walk through a “day-in-the-life” of a fundraiser to explore how AI can help you: Identify high-value prospects who are most likely to donate to your organization based on their past giving history and other factors. Personalize donor communications by analyzing donor data and providing insights into their preferences and interests.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Christina Macchiarola, MBA, Other

Photo of Christina Macchiarola
Microsoft - Global Engagement & Content Lead
Christina Macchiarola is the Global Engagement & Content Lead for the Tech for Social Impact team at Microsoft. Previously, Christina served as Sr. Director of Marketing & Consulting at the College Board, the Director of Marketing and Communications at the World Science Festival and began her nonprofit career at the New Victory Theater in New York City. Christina holds an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, an MFA from Columbia University's School.

Alex Kasavin, MBA

Photo of Alex Kasavin
Microsoft - Sr. Product Manager
Alex Kasavin is a senior product manager on the Tech for Social Impact team at Microsoft, where he leads the development of data and AI products for the nonprofit sector. Prior to this role, he helped Fortune 500 enterprises with their digital transformation efforts as a cloud solution architect, and was previously the founding product lead at a K-12 education nonprofit focused on educational equity.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 718 B

Moving Toward Equitable Futures: A CCF Panel

In this panel discussion, Rachel D’Souza will facilitate a spirited and informative discussion with members of the CCF Global Council to explore learnings from and experiences in the movement, and how including CCF’s core principles in your organization’s fundraising strategy can lead to larger contributions and more committed donors/funders.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Rickesh Lakhani, CFRE, MBA

Photo of Rickesh Lakhani
Radiance Advisory - Lead Consultant
Rickesh Lakhani believes that we are all responsible for each other’s success. He is the Founder of Radiance Advisory, supporting social impact organizations and leaders to align their actions with their values and build stronger cultures based on truth and trust. He has over 15 years of experience in the social impact sector, including serving as the Executive Director at a community-based organization and as the Development Director leading an $8M annual fundraising campaign.

Abigail Oduol, CFRE, MA

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Earthjustice - Senior Development Officer, Planned Gift
Abigail Oduol is a Senior Development Officer, Planned Gifts at Earthjustice. Abigail’s work experience includes 3 years in Kenya and Ethiopia in refugee resettlement, work as an autism behavior therapist and a graduate degree in Transformational Urban Leadership. Abigail has lead initiatives such as a Black employee affinity group, a parenting support group and launching an organization wide initiative to retain Black staff.

Leah Rapley

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Profound Gentlemen - Director of Development
Leah Rapley is the Director of Development of Profound Gentlemen, a nonprofit committed to retaining male educators of color, and serves on the Community Centric Fundraising Global Council. She received a Masters in International Education Development from George Washington University and Bachelors in Anthropology from Davidson College.

Rachel D'Souza-Siebert, MBA

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Gladiator Consulting - Founder+Principal
Rachel D'Souza is the founder of Gladiator Consulting, a boutique firm serving nonprofits across the country. Rachel is a founding member of the Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) Global Council, a body that guides a global initiative to reimagine the nonprofit sector through radical collaboration, racial equity, social justice, and decolonization. Additionally, Rachel is currently the president-elect for the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater St. Louis Regional Chapter.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 801 B

Engaging Diverse Donors and Cultivating an Inclusive Donor Base

Are you looking to develop a more inclusive donor program? Join to learn about the strategies and insights gained from high-profile inclusive fundraising campaigns that launched the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Obama 2008 presidential campaign.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

April Harley

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Funders' Committee for Civic Participation (FCCP) - Senior Director of Member and Foundation Relations
April Harley is the Senior Director of Member and Foundation Relations at Funders' Committee for Civic Participation (FCCP). Prior to this role, she's served as an executive leader in non-profits. From 2007-2012, April raised upwards of $15 million for President Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns, Inaugurations, the Party and nominating conventions. After serving as the Senior Advisor to the Mayor for the Charlotte in 2012 Convention, she created The Harley Firm, providing consulting services.

Brandon Neal

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Brandon Neal is a subject matter expert in executive management, political strategy, corporate social responsibility, fundraising, organizational and business development problem-solving. A past Senior Executive Service (SES) member in the federal government, he's served as an Advisor to Presidential Cabinet Members, and President and CEOs of national political and non-profit organizations, candidates and campaigns on all levels. On the Obama 2008 campaign, he developed and executed the national BIPOC donor strategy.

Anna Barber, JD

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Barber & Associates - Founder and Principal Strategist
Anna Barber, Founder and Principal Strategist of Barber & Associates, is a 20-year fundraising veteran. Prior to starting the firm, Barber was the first Central Major Gifts Officer at the Smithsonian Institution, and a member of the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s (NMAAHC) fundraising team. At NMAAHC, Barber secured $42M in leadership ($1M+) and major ($100K) gift support, closing 22 individual one million-dollar gifts, 90% contributed by first-time Smithsonian donors.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 803 A/B

Manage and measure your impact as a strategic asset

Do you want to leverage your environmental and social impact to mobilize resources more effectively? Are you looking to measure and communicate your current impact better? In this session, we will help you create impact management plans that engage your stakeholders, meaningfully measure outcomes, and strengthen your fundraising strategies.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Sarah Nielsen

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Relativ Impact - Managing Director
Sarah Nielsen is the Managing Director of Relativ Impact, an impact solutions provider serving purpose-driven organizations in over forty countries. She has experienced in multiple levels and areas of social sector management including fundraising, communications, impact measurement, and project development. Sarah completed post-graduate studies in fundraising management and international development in Canada before working in development roles across Southern Africa.

Colin Habberton, PhD

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Relativ Impact - Co-Founder
Colin Habberton is Co-Founder of Relativ Impact, an impact solutions provider based in South Africa, Canada, and New Zealand, serving investors, corporates, social enterprises, foundations, government agencies, and nonprofits. His PhD research focused on the decision-making dynamics of institutional investors towards responsible investing. Through academic research and professional practice, Colin has focused on building tools and processes to support organizations in identifying, managing, and amplifying their impact for more than 15 years.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 701A

With a great story comes great responsibility: A case study of ethical and trauma-informed storytelling

Join this session to learn about creating space, safety and equity in storytelling with vulnerable populations. Using the YWCA Regina’s capital campaign as a case study, we’ll discuss telling truthful and accurate stories while ensuring the dignity of all involved.   Eligible for 1.25 ACFRE credits in Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Jessica Gordon

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YWCA Canada - Indigenous Relations Director/Accountability Partner
Jessica Gordon is Anishinaabe and Nehiyaw from Pasqua First Nation, Treaty 4. She is one of the four founders of the global, Idle No More movement. At YWCA Regina, Jessica is leading the organization through instrumental change in how it offers its programming at all levels, working to dismantle the systemic colonialism in the organization's history. Her activism, knowledge, and guidance is instrumental in forging a decolonized future on Turtle Island.

Leah Eustace, ACFRE

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University of Ottawa - Executive Director, Advancement
Leah is the Executive Director of Advancement for the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. Prior to joining the University, Leah spent almost two decades as a consultant working with non-profit clients to raise 100s of millions of dollars for causes all around the world. Leah is also active in shaping the non-profit landscape. She’s past chair and a current member of the ACFRE Credentialing Board.

Chelsey Lemke

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YWCA Regina - Senior Director of Development, Marketing, Communications and Capital Campaign Director.
Chelsey Lemke, CFRE, is the Senior Director of Development for YWCA Regina, and is finishing up a $25 million capital campaign for YWCA Regina Centre for Women and Families. Prior to the YWCA, Chelsey held the position of Manager of Major Gifts with Habitat for Humanity Regina. Currently, she is President of the AFP South Saskatchewan Chapter.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 715 A/B

Post Give Day Tips to Amplify Donor Loyalty (Presented by Fundraising Academy)

Give Day Campaigns provide an opportunity to demonstrate donor loyalty and identify new supporters. Does your organization have measures in place to nurture new relationships or will your new prospects be lost in your database until next year? Your organization’s response to these questions are vital for long-term sustainability. This session will explore qualitative and quantitative measures to sustain and upgrade annual donors to major gift donors. 

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Hannah Berger, CFRE, MPA

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The Philanthropy Coach, LLC - President, The Philanthropy Coach
As a self-proclaimed “accidental expert” at revitalizing fundraising programs to realize exponential growth, Hannah is skilled at building authentic, lasting relationships with philanthropists, community leaders and corporate representatives. She thoroughly enjoys coaching other professional fundraisers to do the same. Hannah has proudly supported dozens of nonprofit organizations in raising more than $150M. Hannah's boutique consulting firm, The Philanthropy Coach, specializes in major expansion campaigns, board recruitment and development, and the creation of strategic development plans.

LaShonda Williams, CFRE, MPA

Photo of LaShonda Williams
LaShonda Williams, MPA, CFRE, recently joined South Texas College of Law as the Associate Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. She serves as a vital member of the Advancement and Alumni Engagement department, which spans all fundraising functions, alumni engagement, and philanthropic services. She possesses two decades of experience in higher education, former employers include Prairie View A&M University, University of Houston College of Education, African American Studies and Bauer College of Business.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 713 A/B

Building the Future Mid-Level and Major Donors (Presented by Blackbaud)

Nonprofits are overwhelmed with the level of fundraising they need to do to keep up or even break even. Incoming funds are concentrated on major donors while the middle and small donors are disappearing. The average new donor retention rate is 45%, so it is difficult to know what strategy to employ.   We want to focus on one problem: How to attract and keep younger donors and build the future of loyal mid and major gift donors.   Giving in the workplace has transformed in this century. In today’s landscape, it’s become a tactic for employee engagement and retention and even marketing or brand image strategies.   For nonprofits, workplace giving has the potential to attract younger donors with means (the average age of employees in corporate America is 38, and the average yearly donation is $1,250).   Workplace giving has a corporation’s communication and marketing power behind it because they are using this type of programming to enhance its brand image and keep employees. It also has the element of donor engagement because a key element of workplace giving is the act of volunteering. It encourages collaboration among employees and gives nonprofits an opportunity for donors to really get to know you. Workplace giving also has the amplifying power of a company match for both donations and volunteer actions; and, in many cases, another boost from corporate foundation grants. A majority of workplace giving is inspired by local actions which encourages a closer connection between a donor and the nonprofit.   Estimates of giving through the workplace in 2023 were $5B. But much of what companies have set aside for charitable gifts is left on the table. It’s estimated that between $3 and $7 billion have gone un-donated.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Matt Nash, MBA

Photo of Matt Nash
The Blackbaud Giving Fund - Executive Director
Matthew Nash is the Executive Director of The Blackbaud Giving Fund, leading the organization’s mission to unleash generosity by connecting people to causes they care about around the world. An experienced executive with a focus on customer relationships, he previously served as the Executive Director of the Generosity Commission Working Group, where he continues to volunteer, focusing on implementing a research agenda aimed at more deeply understanding generosity in America.

Calli Hartman

Photo of Calli Hartman
Calli Hartman is the Head of Customer Success for Corporate Impact at Blackbaud, the world’s leading cloud software company for the social good community. She currently leads the team that helps thousands of corporations maximize the impact of their employee engagement, CSR, and ESG programs with YourCause and EVERFI solutions. Calli works closely with the Blackbaud Giving Fund, a donor-advised fund that simplifies the giving experience by administrating donations from individuals and corporations.


Mon, Apr 8, 2024

4:00pm - 4:30pm
Learning Lab 2

Smarter Fundraising: Leveraging Technology to Raise More Money More Efficiently(Learning Lab) Presented by Huron Consulting Group

Join Emily Eakin, a seasoned industry professional and expert in nonprofit technology, for an enlightening session on leveraging new technology. Explore how Salesforce Data Cloud, Nonprofit Cloud, and AI are reshaping nonprofit fundraising. Discuss real-world use cases and discover how to effectively integrate technology into every stage of the fundraising process, from donor identification to stewardship and retention. With interactive discussions, this session will empower you to harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology and drive positive change for your organization. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your fundraising strategy and raise more money more effectively. Let’s demystify tech together and uncover how it can revolutionize your fundraising efforts!

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Charmaine Lyon

Photo of Charmaine Lyon
Huron Consulting Group - Digital Consultant, Nonprofit
Charmaine Lyon, armed with a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management, has over 15 years of expertise in the nonprofit sector. As a former head of fundraising for multiple organizations within the social services sector, she spearheaded programs that significantly boosted annual giving, major gift initiatives, and donor stewardship. Today, as a digital consultant at Huron’s Nonprofit practice, Charmaine utilizes her understanding of nonprofit operations to drive impactful digital transformations.

Emily Eakin

Photo of Emily Eakin
Huron Consulting Group - CRM Nonprofit Practice Lead
Emily Eakin, Huron’s CRM Nonprofit portfolio leader, is at the forefront of an innovative team dedicated to empowering clients with technology to achieve their organizational and fundraising goals. She champions a comprehensive approach, driving the evolution of people, processes, and technology to meet the present and future needs of nonprofit organizations and their constituents. Bringing over two decades of nonprofit experience, Emily previously served as Business Strategy Director in Salesforce's Nonprofit Practice.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 601 A/B

Data-Driven Do-Gooders: Unleash Your Nonprofit's Superpowers with Data

Achieve fundraising success with data-driven decision making! Join Maggie Dubyk and Meena Das for expert insights on using data to set and measure achievable goals, understand donor behavior, and more. Get real-life examples of how nonprofits have used data to succeed and level up your nonprofit game!

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Meena Das

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NamasteData
Meena Das (she/her/hers) is the founder, consultant, and facilitator at her practices NamasteData and Data Is For Everyone. NamasteData is focused on advancing data equity for nonprofits and social impact agencies. Meena specializes in designing and teaching equitable research tools and analyzing engagement. She supports nonprofits in 3 core areas: data collection assessments, community surveys, and, staff workshops on improving data equity (through data collection, visualization, human-centric algorithms etc.)

Maggie Dubyk

Photo of Maggie Dubyk
Keela - Chief of Staff
Maggie is an experienced humanitarian and social impact leader with a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector. She has worked on diverse causes like women's empowerment, refugee support, youth education, and economic development in various global contexts. Maggie's passion is leveraging data and technology to revolutionize the sector, and she currently serves as Chief of Staff at Keela, a tech company providing innovative solutions for nonprofits.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 602 A/B

Learning from the Present to Prepare for the Future of Volunteer Engagement

The modern volunteer is changing. Are you ready to change with them? Join us to explore the past, present and future of volunteer engagement in an interactive session packed with tips for meaningful community engagement and tools to advocate for successful volunteer participation.

Education Track(s): Volunteer Involvement

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Sammy Feilchenfeld, CVA

Photo of Sammy Feilchenfeld
Volunteer Toronto - Manager, Learning
As Manager of Learning, Sammy Feilchenfeld, CVA designs and oversees Volunteer Toronto’s responsive and accessible learning experiences for non-profit engagement professionals, grassroots leaders and volunteer seekers. With a strong focus on diverse educational interventions that support the changing needs in volunteerism, Sammy also develops training for aspiring and established non-profit Board Members.

Kasandra James

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Volunteer Toronto - Director, Programs
Kasandra James (she/her) is Volunteer Toronto’s Director of Programs. Kasandra provides strategic leadership of the organization’s programs, services and events that connect Toronto’s diverse volunteer-seekers with community organizations and volunteer programs that need them. Since joining Volunteer Toronto in 2015, Kasandra has used her experience and expertise in non-profit and volunteer management, community development and program design to support capacity building efforts in hundreds of organizations across Ontario.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 718 A

What Not to Say to Your Donors, Eh? (And What to Say Instead)

Why give you money? Why you and not someone else? One thing: words. Without knowing it a reader thinks... "Wow, they really get me. Sign me up for some of that!" Come strike a memorable chord in a noisy world. Your donors long for it. Your bottom line demands it.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift , Rebels, Renegades and Pioneers

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Julie Cooper

Photo of Julie Cooper
Julie Cooper is a fundraising copywriter and donor comms strategist passionate about helping nonprofits reach the next level of revenue and impact. Her specialties include print and digital fundraising writing, annual planning, and fundraising design. She holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology with Distinction from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy, is a member of The Case Writers, and is the founder of JB Cooper LLC, where she collaborates with her writing partner, Brett Cooper.

Sarah Masterson, MA

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Sarah Klein Masterson Consulting - Copywriter & Consultant, Donor Communications
Nonprofit leaders trust Sarah to help them speak from the heart – to the heart – growing meaningful donor relationships and extraordinary generosity. Her work is shaped by 25 years in cause-driven communications, along with degrees in psychology and rhetoric. She holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology with Distinction from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy. In a noisy world, Sarah is passionate about inspiring people to say "Me, too!" and "I'm IN."

Rachel Muir, CFRE

Photo of Rachel Muir
rachelmuir.com - Keynotes, custom training & retreats
When she was 26, Rachel Muir launched Girlstart, a non-profit empowering girls in math, science, engineering and technology in the living room of her apartment with $500 and a credit card. Several years later she had raised over 10 million and was featured on Oprah, CNN, and the Today show. Today Rachel delivers workshops and offers a monthly membership, League of Extraordinary Fundraisers, transforming people into confident, successful fundraisers.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 801 A

AI in Fundraising: Enhancing Efficiency and Impact while Ensuring Accountability

In this interactive session we'll explore how to ethically incorporate AI into your fundraising workflow while ensuring accountability. Learn about potential risks and challenges associated with AI integration in fundraising and best practices to manage them. Join us to discover how AI can help enhance your fundraising productivity.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Keith Greer, CFRE

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University of New Mexico Foundation - Director of Development
Keith Greer, CFRE is Director of Development for the UNM School of Architecture + Planning. With over a decade of fundraising experience, Keith has lead fundraising for Hawai'i Island's largest hospice organization and was the Director of the ASRT Foundation with work reaching around the globe. Keith is an AFP Chamberlain Scholar as well as an ASAE NextGen Award Winner.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 718 B

Thinking Big Around Legacy Giving for Growth & Long-term Connection

Legacy marketing is about a values connection and understanding donor needs/motivations. This session will provide new insights into how to make these valuable connections, what is working to inspire people to take action and how you can harness the power of legacy to grow your programs and deepen relationships.

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Rachel Hunnybun

Photo of Rachel Hunnybun
Blakely - Director, Strategic Solutions
Rachel is a fundraising professional with over a decade of experience working for UK charities in Individual Giving & Supporter Experience. Through her role at Blakely Inc she now works with US and Canadian charities and is passionate about helping charities deliver a great donor experience. She speaks internationally, served as a commissioner for the UK’s Commission on Donor Experience and is a member of the institute of fundraising.

Kimberley Blease

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Blakely - Executive Vice President, Strategic Solutions and Consultancy
When it comes to building high-value donor relationships, Kimberley’s original thinking is unparalleled. With over 38 years of experience, Kimberley is a fundraiser and marketer, and sought after speaker on the topics of high value giving, planned giving, legacy and trends in the sector. Kimberley’s passion for high value donor development has led to the creation of new products and solutions for the sector, and the launch of Blakely’s thought leadership platform – The Exchange Hub.

Niambi Martin-John

Photo of Niambi Martin-John
Stephen Lewis Foundation - Director of Development
Niambi is a social change champion, community mobilizer, advocate and fund development specialist who has dedicated her career to increasing capacity for marginalized, racialized and at-risk communities. For more than 20 years, Niambi has held leadership roles in the health charity, arts and social services sectors, employing an integrated, mission-centered, collaborative approach to drive revenue, create space and empower beneficiaries. Niambi is currently the Director of Development at the Stephen Lewis Foundation.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

8:00am - 9:15am
Room 716 A/B

Continuing the Conversation on being an Equitable, Inclusive, Diverse Leader

To take on the biggest problems, all need to lead in an inclusive, diverse and equitable manner. This session will focus on the leadership skills you need for personal and professional success. These diverse leaders on the panel live their lives with IDEA everyday. Learn how you can as well!

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Sana Mahboob

Photo of Sana Mahboob
Government of Canada - Senior Advisor
Sana Mahboob is an enormous advocate for the communities she serves, a seasoned speaker across the globe, and a morning show guest in Pakistan. Sana continues to serve on local, national, and international Boards. With over a decade of diverse experiences, Sana has a transparent and truthful discussion style, and as an immigrant to Canada, she brings a diverse perspective and passion to everything she does professionally, and personally.

Majoy Camberos

Photo of Majoy Camberos
Majoy Camberos seeks growth in cultural, educational, and philanthropic fields with interdisciplinary experience which enriches her problem-solving approach with background in administration, logistics, and orchestral production, serves as Project Developer at Orphanage Ana Maria Casillas. AFP member since 2020, she currently holds the secretary position at AFP Occidente Pacífico México.

Michael Baker, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Michael Baker
m3 Development - Partner & Founder
Michael J. Baker, CFRE, is founder and partner of m3 Development, a full-service consulting firm. Michael has over 30 years of experience, is an AFP Master Trainer, serves on the Board of the Marlboro Educational Foundation, and as an Ambassador for CFRE International. Michael served on the AFP Global Board, is Past-President of the AFP–NJ Chapter, has a BA from the University at Albany, SUNY, and is an Eagle Scout.

Don Baker, AFP Master Trainer, MPA

Photo of Don Baker
FAME, Inc. - Chief Executive Officer
For over 20 years, Don has invested his time to serve people in and around Delaware. Before becoming CEO of FAME, Inc., Don built a reputation for tackling the root causes of social issues including hunger, poverty, social/racial justice, and education. Don received his formal training at Morehouse College as a Political Science Pre-law major. Don was one of the Delaware Valley’s first Standards for Excellence ® Licensed Consultants and AFP Certified Master Trainers.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:00am - 10:30am
Learning Lab 1

Navigating Donor Journeys: Strategies for Engaging Nonprofit Supporters - (Learning Lab) Presented by Microsoft

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kristin Fleek

Photo of Kristin Fleek
Kristin Fleek has held several leadership and individual contributor positions at Great Plains and Microsoft for 25+ years, since her career shift from the Education sector. In her current role, Kristin is the Business Applications Lead for Microsoft’s Tech for Social Impact Team, which focuses on the nonprofit sector globally. She leads the strategy to drive growth and health of the business and exceed fiscal year targets, working with marketing, partner and sales team leaders,

Jim Ballou

Photo of Jim Ballou
Microsoft - Technical Specialist, Tech for Social Impact
My name is Jim Ballou and I have been working at Microsoft for 2 years as a Technical Specialist for Microsoft’s Tech for Social impact team. I help our Nonprofit customers transform their operations through better technology solutions. I specialize in the Dynamics365 suite of applications, which includes customer relationship management (CRM), and the Power Platform, which enables users to create low code no code solutions.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 713 A/B

Big Donors Love Big Ideas: Vision & Innovation Leading to Major Gifts

Since big donors love big ideas, nonprofits need to cast vision and innovate to devise the major opportunities that captivate major gift donors. An easy-to-use framework for identifying a compelling vision, a six-step innovation process, and a paper clip will strengthen your ability to craft big ideas for big donors.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Bill Stanczykiewicz, MA, EdD

Photo of Bill Stanczykiewicz
Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanth - Senior Assistant Dean, External Relations
Bill Stanczykiewicz serves as senior assistant dean for external relations at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of philanthropy where he directs The Fund Raising School. Bill has been associated with raising more than $120 million for small, medium, and large nonprofits over the last 25 years as a staff and board member in the philanthropic sector.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 714 A/B

Hidden Gold: How Monthly Giving will build donor loyalty and improve donor retention

Join Harvey McKinnon, author of three books on monthly giving and one of North America's leading experts on the subject, and Jas Jhooty, who led one of the largest monthly giving programs in Canada and learn how to create lifelong donors through recurring giving

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Jas Jhooty, MA

Photo of Jas Jhooty
Independent - Consultant
As a consultant, Jas helps charities realize the power of their own donor data and tell the story behind it. Using data audits/analytics, donor journey mapping, storytelling, and a multi-channel approach, Jas helps charities keep the donors they have. She has over 15 years of monthly giving expertise including monthly acquisition, conversion, reactivation, and upgrades through email, digital, direct mail, telefundraising, DRTV, telethons, radiothons, and face-to-face/door-to-door.

Harvey McKinnon, AFP Master Trainer

Photo of Harvey McKinnon
Harvey McKinnon Associates - President
Harvey McKinnon is recognized as one of North America’s leading fundraising experts. He has delivered fundraising keynotes at conferences around the world and is a frequent master-class trainer. He has authored five books –most recently a third book on monthly giving: How to Create Lifelong Donors. His best-selling book, The 11 Questions Every Donor Asks, is a major gift training manual for fundraising departments throughout the US and Canada.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 801 A

Using the Power of Connections and Influence in Global Corporate Fundraising

Social initiatives are increasing within corporations due to the ESG agenda. Learn how to define the best strategies of relationship building and maintenance to connect your cause with businesses and make your nonprofit part of the impact companies want to generate. Corporate fundraising is waiting for you!

Education Track(s): Relationship Building

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Salomão Lima, MBA

Photo of Salomão Lima
IOS - The Institute for Social Opportunity - Head of Development and Institutional Relations
DEI Consultant and Head of Development at The Institute for Social Opportunity, a Brazilian nonprofit focused on education for underserved youths. Experienced in fundraising for internationally recognized nonprofits, including World Vision, Brasscom (Brazilian Association of Information Technology Companies), and United Nations Global Compact. UN Young Professional Pioneer Award finalist. MBA in International Relations and executive certifications in LGBTQI+ Leadership from Stanford University (USA) and Queen’s University (Canada), and Political Leadership at George Washington University (Brazil).


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 718 B

Becoming a Changemaker: How Fundraisers are Positioned for Advancing Equity

Fundraisers are changemakers. We identify issues, make connections, generate support, and solve problems. These attributes make fundraisers well-positioned for leadership roles helping advance inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in our organizations at any level. This session will share personal stories, identify skills and provide resources for your IDEA success.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Helen (Hyo-Kyung) Choi

Photo of Helen (Hyo-Kyung) Choi
HC & Associates - Principal
Helen Hyo-Kyung Choi is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. She is a dynamic, empathetic and experienced community builder and speaker. She is also a leading public relations consultant to nonprofits, public sector organizations and socially conscious driven for-profit enterprises. She is a strong advocate for compassion, generosity and thoughtful investment in causes related to vulnerable women and children. In total, she has raised over $15 million dollars through her consultancy.

Terrel White, MSA, MSW

Photo of Terrel White
Center for Nonprofit Excellence - Director of Advancement
Terrel White (he/him/his) was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and is currently the Director of Advancement at the Center for Nonprofit Excellence in Charlottesville, Virginia. Before his current role, he has worked across the country within universities in multiple facets of fundraising. He holds a Master of Social Work as a macro practitioner, focusing on social change, innovation, and policy advocacy; a Master’s in Administration with a concentration in nonprofit administration and philanthropy.

Jonathan Meagher-Zayas, CFRE, MSW, MPA, CDP

Photo of Jonathan Meagher-Zayas
Equity Warrior Strategies LLC - Owner & Chief Strategist
Jonathan (he/him) is a Queer Latinx Millennial nonprofit strategist dedicated to addressing equity issues, building capacity, engaging the community, motivating new impact leaders, and getting stuff done. Jonathan wears many professional hats including fundraiser, nonprofit strategist, coach, trainer, adjunct professor, and macro social worker. He leads Equity Warrior Strategies LLC, a consulting company that provides leadership development education and coaching, community engagement strategic planning, and equity training and assessments to the social impact sector.

Chrissey Nguyen Klockner

Photo of Chrissey Nguyen Klockner
Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School - Director Of Development And Communications
Inspired by her family of immigrants, Chrissey strives to break the barriers facing women of color, to lift up and support other people from immigrant backgrounds, and to build community with other fundraisers. As a fundraising professional, she has built and expanded fundraising programs in Texas, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., and has led nonprofit leadership teams through fundraising growth and strategic challenges. To date, she has raised over $18 million for causes nationwide.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 601 A/B

How We're Transforming Our AFP Chapter Through a Commitment to IDEA

AFP Silicon Valley Board Members will share how they're transforming CA Chapters with the innovative IDEA Fellowship for diverse fundraisers. Learn about launching the program with provided tools and templates after a group discussion and interactive brainstorm about your Chapters commitment to IDEA.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Julia Zarcone, MA

Photo of Julia Zarcone
Opera San Jose - Director of Development
Julia Zarcone is an accomplished strategist, fundraiser, board coach, and non-profit leader. Her fifteen years of service as an Executive Director and Major Gifts officer equips her with a depth of knowledge and expertise to advise and manage complex projects and complex people. Julia enjoys deep dives into process, teaching teams to function with integrity and transparency and guiding people to their best wisdom and most vibrant performance.

Manju Ramachandran, CFRE

Photo of Manju Ramachandran
San Jose State University - Director of Development
Inspired to be “in service to others,” Manju Ramachandran works with donors to give their time, treasure, and talent to close the equity gap in the Bay Area and has raised over $10MM to support programs at SJSU, India Community Center, Second Harvest Food Bank and All Stars Helping Kids. Manju co-founded the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) fellowship for AFP Silicon Valley/Golden Gate to ensure all voices are included in philanthropy.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 802 A/B

Unlocking Donor Potential: Transforming Volunteers into Cause Champions through Relationship-Driven Fundraising (Presented by Fundraising Academy)

Volunteers are essential in every organization. They know your cause and support your organization throughout the year. They are your greatest advocates and possess linkage, ability, and interest in filling resource gaps. The question now is: Does your organization have a strategic plan to elevate volunteer commitment into meaningful financial contributions? Volunteers represent untapped potential as major gift prospects. If your major gift prospect pool currently overlooks this hidden treasure within your volunteer base, this session is for you. Join us to explore converting loyal volunteers into enthusiastic donors, unlocking a new dimension of support for your cause.

Education Track(s): Volunteer Involvement

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Hannah Berger, CFRE, MPA

Photo of Hannah Berger
The Philanthropy Coach, LLC - President, The Philanthropy Coach
As a self-proclaimed “accidental expert” at revitalizing fundraising programs to realize exponential growth, Hannah is skilled at building authentic, lasting relationships with philanthropists, community leaders and corporate representatives. She thoroughly enjoys coaching other professional fundraisers to do the same. Hannah has proudly supported dozens of nonprofit organizations in raising more than $150M. Hannah's boutique consulting firm, The Philanthropy Coach, specializes in major expansion campaigns, board recruitment and development, and the creation of strategic development plans.

LaShonda Williams, CFRE, MPA

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LaShonda Williams, MPA, CFRE, recently joined South Texas College of Law as the Associate Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. She serves as a vital member of the Advancement and Alumni Engagement department, which spans all fundraising functions, alumni engagement, and philanthropic services. She possesses two decades of experience in higher education, former employers include Prairie View A&M University, University of Houston College of Education, African American Studies and Bauer College of Business.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 718 A

Emerging Trends in Fundraising Research (Sponsored by AFP Foundation for Philanthropy)

Join the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy for an engaging panel discussion with fundraising scholars from around the country. Learn about their cutting edge research - both recently published and in process - and consider how it can be applied to improve your fundraising.

Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Lois Buntz

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Lois Buntz Consulting LLC - President and Owner
Lois Buntz, CFRE, is President of LoisBuntzConsultingLLC, author, and fundraiser. Her consulting business focuses on strategic planning, fund development, and women's philanthropy. She recently published a book, Generosity and Gender. Buntz is the former CEO of United Way ECI. She has a BA from Univ of Wisconsin, MSW, Univ of Iowa, and Nonprofit Leadership Certificate from Stanford University. Tara Stone Medina is an independent consultant with experience in U.S.,Latin America, and Europe.

Lori Overmyer, Chair of AFP Research Council, and AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Fundraising Board Member

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Goettler Associates - Vice President
Lori Hunter Overmyer, MBA, CFRE has more than twenty-five years of professional fund-raising experience with a focus on the arts, social, and human service organizations. Her professional expertise includes implementing annual and capital fund-raising plans, strategic analysis, major donor solicitation, and establishing development procedures to maximize effective operations and communications.

Angela Seaworth

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Rice University Center for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadersh - Director
Angela Seaworth, Ph.D., is Instructional Assistant Professor, Director of Philanthropic Initiatives & Capacity Building at the Texas A&M Center for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership. Dr. Seaworth is passionate about nonprofit and philanthropy education. At the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service, she teaches Management and Leadership of Nonprofit Organizations, Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector, Fundraising in Nonprofit Organizations, and Grant and Project Management for the Public and Nonprofit Sectors.

Ruth Hansen

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University of Wisconsin-Whitewater - Assistant Professor
Ruth K. Hansen, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of nonprofit management at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Her research focuses on the theory and practice of fundraising, and equity and inclusion in resource mobilization. Ruth has more than 20 years’ professional experience as a fundraiser, and is a former board member of AFP-Chicago. Along with her collaborator Lauran Dula, she was the inaugural winner of a Levis Research Grant.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 701A

Create a Fired-Up High Performing Board

Let’s create a board that’s fired-up, enthusiastic and ready to work. Discover how to change your board’s culture, build an internal culture of philanthropy, and create new involvement and commitment. You’ll learn 10 ways to Liven Up Your Board Meetings, and the Tough Questions to discuss with your board.

Education Track(s): Volunteer Involvement

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Gail Perry, CFRE, MBA, AFP Master Trainer

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Gail Perry Group - Consultant, Speaker, Author and Coach
Gail Perry is a veteran philanthropy leader, keynote speaker, and author with more than 30 years’ experience. Her company, Gail Perry Group, helps nonprofits reach extraordinary fundraising and capital campaign goals. She has keynoted over 60 fundraising conferences around the world, and was named a LinkedIn Top Voice in Philanthropy in 2020. Her book, Fired-Up Fundraising: Turn Board Passion into Action, is recognized as “the gold standard guide to building successful fundraising boards.”


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:15am - 11:30am
Room 701B

CANCELLED Engaging Meaningfully with Donors Through a Gift in Will Pipeline

Donor engagement is key to fundraising success yet charities fail to meaningfully engage with its most loyal, long-term donors, resulting in dwindling legacy programs. This research and data-driven deep dive will teach how to create love-filled marketing and engagement activities for every stage of your gift in wills pipeline.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Ligia Pena, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, M.Sc.

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GlobetrottingFundraiser - International Legacy Consultant
Ligia Peña, CFRE is President of GlobetrottingFundraiser, specializing in helping charities develop & implement their fundraising and legacy strategy. She's also a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Kent, researching national legacy marketing campaigns. As an AFP Master Trainer, she’s trained countless fundraisers around the globe. She's a sought-after and seasoned international presenter who enjoys sharing her knowledge and empowering nonprofits professionals to think about legacies differently by daring to be creative and innovative.

Jen Love

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Agents of Good - Partner
Jen Love is a storyteller. And not in a poetic sense. In an awkward-and-authentic, cryball-in-throat, let's-get-to-the-heart-and-the-emotions sense. Where vulnerability, values, passion and purpose come first and forever. Let’s talk about metrics and meaning, facts and feelings. Jen, filled with an attitude of gratitude, is a Partner at Agents of Good.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

10:45am - 11:15am
Learning Lab 1

Navigating Donor Expectations In a Smartphone World (Learning Lab) Presented by Fundraise Up

Showcasing Fundraise Up's robust mobile-centric features and user interface, designed to meet and exceed the expectations of modern donors. We'll highlight functionalities that ensure your nonprofit is equipped to provide a seamless and intuitive giving experience on any mobile device. Expect to learn about: - Mobile-optimized donation forms that increase conversion rates - One-click donations via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other mobile wallets - Personalized mobile outreach strategies to engage new donor demographics - Real-time analytics and how they can inform your mobile fundraising strategy. We will also discuss emerging demographics that are more likely to contribute when approached with mobile-friendly giving options. By understanding these groups and their preferences, your organization can tap into new sources of support and foster lasting donor relationships.

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Salvatore Salpietro

Photo of Salvatore Salpietro
Fundraise Up - Chief Partnerships Officer
Salvatore Salpietro is the Chief Community Officer of Fundraise Up, a technology company unlocking the world’s generosity potential by optimizing how people give. He also currently serves on the board of AsiaWild.org. Prior, he served as Director of Digital for Child Mind Institute, a nonprofit focused on children's mental health, and a technologist in academia.


Tue, Apr 9, 2024

11:30am - 12:00pm
Learning Lab 2

Tech for Impact: A Look at 2024 Nonprofit Trends (Learning Lab) Presented by Sage

As Managing Director for Sage in North America, Mark Hickman empowers U.S. and Canadian businesses by simplifying workflows to break down barriers and achieve growth. With more than 20 years of experience at the executive management and leadership-levels, where he consistently grew revenues at leading organizations, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge essential to successfully navigate the channel, partner, and SMB landscapes in North America. As a leader, Mark looks to empower colleagues, partners, and customers to seek out solutions through creativity and innovation.

Education Track(s): Leadership and Management

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Mark Hickman

Photo of Mark Hickman
Sage - Managing Director, North America
As Managing Director for Sage in North America, Mark Hickman empowers U.S. and Canadian businesses by simplifying workflows to break down barriers and achieve growth. With more than 20 years of experience at the executive management and leadership-levels, where he consistently grew revenues at leading organizations, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge essential to successfully navigate the channel, partner, and SMB landscapes in North America.

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