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.
- Current & Prospective Donor Research
- Ethics, Accountability & Professionalism
- Health Care (Sponsored by DonorSearch, Curated by Advancement Resources)
- Leadership & Management (Sponsored by Lindauer Global)
- Relationship Building (Sponsored by GolfStatus)
- Securing the Gift Track (Sponsored by Mission CRM)
- Volunteer Involvement
Introductory/Foundational
Sun, Apr 7, 2024
9:00am - 10:15am
Room 602 A/B
Getting Help: Engaging Volunteers to Grow Your Gift Planning Program
The most effective path to supercharge your gift planning program is help from volunteers! In this session you will learn how to effectively harness the power of volunteer leadership in your gift planning program, as well as, practical strategies to maximize their impact on fundraising success.
Education Track(s): Volunteer Involvement
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Carlo Laurore, CFRE, CFP® CHFC® CLU® RICP® AEP® CAP®
National Boy Scouts of America Foundation - VP & Executive Director
Carlo Laurore is the VP & Executive Director of the National Boy Scouts of America Foundation, where he has worked for almost the past decade. Currently, he leads planned giving, corporate giving, and Private Foundation fundraising for the BSA. Carlo also provides leadership for grant administration, restricted funds management, and fundraising educational initiatives for the national organization. He is an Executive Committee member of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners Board.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
9:00am - 10:15am
Room 714 A/B
Small Shops Big Success in Planned Giving
Planned giving is not just for the big organizations with lots of resources. It's for every organization with a compelling mission. You will be able identify planned giving prospects and obtain over 30 different donor conversation starters. Receive practical strategies for securing the planned gift and increase annual gifts too!
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Alexis India Alm, AFP Master Trainer, CFRE, CAP, MNA
Sun, Apr 7, 2024
9:00am - 10:15am
Room 803 A/B
Driving Impact: How to Supercharge Your Golf Tournament’s Fundraising Power (Presented by Golf Status)
Golf's capacity for fundraising is unmatched. To maximize your tournament’s fundraising potential, it’s crucial to understand how to appeal to golfers’ and sponsors’ generosity. This session will outline best practices and proven strategies for pricing teams and sponsorships, filling your tournament’s field, incorporating contests and games, and other revenue-generating components.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Golfstatus - Sales and Education Director
Logan Foote has been around the game of golf his whole life, but despite thousands of attempts, he’s never gotten a hole-in-one (except in mini golf). His passion for golf led him to GolfStatus in 2017, where he discovered the sport’s power for good. As Sales and Education Director, Logan oversees a team that works with thousands of nonprofits to maximize their golf fundraisers and shares his golf fundraising expertise through GolfStatus’ educational webinars.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
9:00am - 10:15am
Room 801 A
How to Communicate your Cause using the 3 Vs of Communication
Communicating your organization’s story effectively is vital to meeting fundraising goals. Authentic communication can be challenging in person and in the virtual world. Be confident in your next Ask. Attendees will leave knowing how to communicate their cause using the 3Vs of communication.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
FundJoy LLC - Nonprofit Consultant, Speaker, Author
Kristal Frazier is the founder of the Assertive Ask®, used by licensed trainers who empower organizations, associations, and universities to present without fear so they can fund, sustain, and grow. Kristal has an innate talent for coaching critical thinkers and thought leaders to craft words and deliver speeches that cultivate investors, funders, and donors. She is truly an inspirational speaker, noted for her warm personality, motivational and insightful teachings, unrivaled professionalism, and expansive knowledge.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 717 A/B
From Capitol Hill to Nonprofits: how understanding public policy makes you a better fundraiser
What can you do to be prepared to elevate your organization’s work and mission with lawmakers? Learn how federal policy affects nonprofits and their donors. This session will give fundraisers an approachable, easy-to-understand summary of how upcoming policy changes will impact their fundraising.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP - Director, State Government Relations
Nicole L. Weingartner, well-established as "The Long Island Lobbyist”, has been dedicated to aiding and assisting many of Long Island's nonprofit organizations with representation at the local, county, state and federal levels of government, securing millions of dollars in funding to essential organizations of Long Island's communities.Lisa Chmiola, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer, CSPG, MS
Sally Schaeffer, MA
Uncorked Advocates - Principal Consultant
Bringing nearly 25 years of experience, Sally Schaeffer is founder and owner of Uncorked Advocates, a bipartisan federal government relations firm started in 2017. Among her current clients are some of the largest nonprofits and philanthropic associations in the country, including Association of Fundraising Professionals, American Heart Association, YWCA USA, Covenant House International, United Philanthropy Forum, and Prevent Child Abuse America.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 716 A/B
Philanthropy is Black History: The Untold Stories of Black Philanthropists
Just as with American history, Black philanthropists have largely been forgotten throughout history. Philanthropy is Black History: The Untold Stories of Black Philanthropists, this enlightening session explores the impact of Black donors, past and present, on society and inspires attendees to embrace a more inclusive approach to philanthropy.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Lauren Tudor, CAP®, 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.
The Ohio State University Extension - Area Leader, Hamilton and Butler Counties
Victoria Fresh is currently the Area Leader for the Hamilton and Butler County Extension programs in the Southwest region of Ohio helping to create opportunities for people to explore how science-based knowledge can improve social, economic, and environmental conditions. While she is early in her career, with just five years under her belt, she has raised just shy of $3 million and enjoys sharing her methods and learnings with her peers.Adrienne McDade Taylor, CFRE, MA, MBA
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.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 602 A/B
Creating a Framework for Compassionate & Ethical Storying Telling
History has shown that stories are linked to what it means to be human. Organizations must institute a framework that gives the client a voice while protecting them from the unintended consequence of storytelling. Ethical & Compassionate storytelling should be a tool in each nonprofits tools box.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Derria Ford, MBA, Ed.D
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands - Deputy Director of Community Engagement and Development
Derria Ford holds a Doctorate in Leadership and Professional Practice. She is also a graduate of MTSU, where she earned a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Organizational Psychology and Communications. Since 2009, she has administrated and raised over $60,000,000 via various grants, including government, local, foundation, private grants, and individual donations. She is currently Deputy Director of Community Engagement and Development for the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
3:15pm - 4:30pm
Learning Lab 1
How to Become a Certified Fund Raising Executive (Learning Lab)
The CFRE Credential: Is it worth it? What are the benefits? Is the CFRE Exam difficult? This interactive session to learn everything you ever wanted to know about the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential. We’ll answer your questions plus dive into the eligibility requirements, application tips, and all things related to the CFRE Exam.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Eva Aldrich, CAE, PhD
CFRE International - President & CEO
Eva E. Aldrich is President and CEO of CFRE International, the first globally recognized fundraising credential. Prior to joining CFRE International, Aldrich was Associate Director of Public Service and The Fund Raising School at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She holds a Ph.D. in Philanthropic Studies from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
3:15pm - 3:45pm
Learning Lab 2
Zero to Hero: Starting a Planned Giving Program (Learning Lab) Presented by Freewill
The historic shift of wealth from older to younger Americans has begun, with Baby Boomers poised to transfer up to $70 trillion in assets. Learn more about what The Great Wealth Transfer means for your nonprofit and get insights into key generational giving trends that you can use to cultivate more transformational gifts this year. You’ll also get a look at how 1,450+ nonprofits are using the FreeWill platform to grow non-cash gifts in support of their missions – and how you can too as you look to take advantage of The Great Wealth Transfer.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Freewill - Account Executive
Alyssa is an Account Executive with FreeWill. For the past 4.5 years, she has been working to bring nonprofits of all shapes and sizes to the platform. She specializes in helping smaller size organizations launch and find success with the tools. Prior to FreeWill, she worked in politics. She is a graduate of Vassar College and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
Freewill - Partnerships Lead
Lisa Maxwell-Frieden, J.D. is a career fundraising professional. Since joining the FreeWill team, she has been focused on helping organizations generate more than $10 billion in new planned gifts, stock gifts, and QCD’s from partnering non-profit organizations. Before joining FreeWill, she was the Vice President for Advancement at Trine University and the Director of Gift Planning at Butler University and DePauw University.Sun, Apr 7, 2024
4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 701A
Matching the Ask to the Motivation (Presented by Blackbaud)
Giving feels good. When a donor’s own motivations, values, and needs are met and matched with an opportunity to give, that giving feels even better. In the session, you will meet donor models, and by working through the moves management process you’ll learn their motivations and learn how to shape approaches that will resonate with the donor’s personal vision and motivations.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Sun, Apr 7, 2024
4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 802 A/B
Cognitive Impairment in Donors: Best Practices & Considerations
With 1 in 9 people aged 65+ years showing signs of cognitive impairment, encountering a donor with this issue is inevitable. We will teach the top signs of cognitive impairment, best practices to utilize in this situation, and pose questions about incorporating this in your culture, metrics, CRM, and stewardship.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Tara Adams, JD, Ed.M.
Cognitive Empowerment Consulting Group, LLC - Co-founder
Tara Adams has served in roles at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, University of Illinois College of Law at Urbana-Champaign, and North Carolina State University as well as raising funds for the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. Tara received her B.S. from Illinois State University and her Ed.M. and JD from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she is a current Ph.D. student. Tara is the co-founder of the Cognitive Empowerment Consulting Group.Anthony Pomonis, CFRE
Cognitive Empowerment Consulting Group, LLC - Co-founder
Anthony Pomonis served as a major gift officer for the University of Illinois, the University of Illinois Foundation, and the University of Central Florida. Anthony graduated with his B.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and began a 15-year journey as an entrepreneur. Anthony considers himself to be a lifelong learner and is about to sit for the CFP exam. He is the co-founder of the Cognitive Empowerment Consulting Group, LLC.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 803 A/B
Low–Code App Development: A First Step to Creating Your Own AI–Powered Tools (Presented by Blackbaud)
What's possible when you empower business users and admins to create software solutions using low-code development tools? Those closest to your operational challenges are armed with AI power and other transformational approaches. With free tools and low-code approaches to application, your team can develop custom solutions to solve operational challenges, automate clumsy processes, drive efficiency, and fuel social impact. Want to take advantage of these capabilities? Come explore examples of how low-code approaches can be used to solve operational challenges and get valuable resources to help organizations of all sizes launch and govern their low-code programs. Whether you’re interested in creating your own apps or equipping your team, you’ll leave with actionable next steps to embrace this new frontier.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Blackbaud - Principal Product Manager, Innovation
Heather McLean began her career as a nonprofit marketer and fundraiser. Since she joined Blackbaud, Heather has been a chief evangelist for customer low-code adoption and expansion of developer tools with the Microsoft Power Platform.
North York General Foundation - Chief Information Officer
John is the Chief Information Officer at the North York General Foundation with a rich background in technology, business intelligence, and information systems management across various organizations within the healthcare and nonprofit sectors. With over two decades of experience, he has demonstrated a profound ability to lead and innovate in the domain of data management, CRM systems, and digital transformation.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 801 A
Don’t Close the Door on Your Donors: Intentional Inclusivity in Fundraising Events (Presented by OneCause)
One positive change that arose during the pandemic was the increased access to philanthropy for diverse donors through virtual events and engagement opportunities. But now that we’re spending less time at our screens, large and small, how can nonprofits ensure that access is maintained and that their fundraising strategies?
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
OneCause - Director of Corporate Communications
Sarah is a marketer and brand enthusiast currently serving as Director of Corporate Communications at OneCause. With over 9 years of dedicated experience in the nonprofit technology sector, she brings a wealth of expertise in content writing and strategy, brand management, event marketing, public relations, communications, and technical writing. After graduating from Florida State University with a degree in English, she served her community as an AmeriCorps teacher.
OneCause - VP of National Accounts
Emily Newberry is sales and strategy leader in the nonprofit SaaS world. At OneCause, Emily works directly with national nonprofit organizations and their leaders to understand challenges and opportunities and collaborate on ways to engage donors and use technology to meet fundraising and stewardship goals. She works cross-functionally with internal leaders in marketing, product, and operations to ensure we build processes and products for today and tomorrow’s opportunities.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
9:15am - 9:45am
Learning Lab 1
AFP Membership, What’s In It for Me? (Learning Lab) Presented by AFP Global
Description: Current and prospective AFP members will learn about key benefits of membership including professional development, local events, mentorship and volunteer opportunities, publications, leadership training, and more. Find out how you can maximize the value of your professional involvement while meeting your AFP peers!
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Nakera Dumas, Other
Mon, Apr 8, 2024
9:45am - 11:45am
Room 713 A/B
Breaking the Silence: Confronting Anti-Black Racism in AFP
Join this session with the Co-Conspirators, a group of racial justice activists who supported Nneka Allen, Mide Akerewusi, and Múthoní Karíukí in their pursuit of racial justice. This session will provide an overview of the obstacles, risks, and learnings in the Co-Conspirators quest for accountability from the AFP-GTC chapter. The session will explore the group’s calls to action designed to catalyze institutional and systemic change. In February 2023, this group of 16 individuals became co-conspirators through a commitment to their relationship with Nneka Allen and a desire to amplify and share the impact that Nneka, Mide, and Muthoni's experiences of anti-Black racism as board members at AFP-GTC had, and the subsequent failure to address those concerns. The Co-Conspirators united in a shared mission, to demand repair; acknowledgment, restitution and closure by the perpetrators of harm and AFP-GTC. From the beginning of this journey, the mission was clear - to ensure that Nneka, Mide, and Muthoni's experiences with anti-Black racism as members of AFP were illuminated. For too long, the experiences of anti-Black racism in the fundraising sector have been minimized or actively suppressed. In order for the sector to change, the Co-Conspirators pushed these stories to the forefront, to force one of the most powerful voices in the sector to reconcile with its racist history. The focus was on the voices of Black fundraisers, lifting up their stories, to call for a genuine apology and change. During this session, the Co-Conspirators will vulnerably share their personal experiences navigating this transformative movement. Gain insight into what they have learned in this struggle, hear the collective barriers they faced, and the individual challenges encountered while standing against injustice. Join us in unpacking this movement in the making from the perspective of these change-makers and discover how they are reshaping the narrative for a more equitable and just charitable sector.
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Rickesh Lakhani, CFRE, MBA
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.
The Board Pro - The Board Pro
Christal is passionate about purpose, justice, and supporting Black women. She believes in building community to ensure our rights to happiness, self-empowerment, and success. Christal is the founder and CEO of The Board Pro, a boutique consulting firm providing comprehensive training and coaching to nonprofits and their boards. Learn more at www.theboardpro.com.
Alzheimer Society of Ontario - CEO
As the CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Ontario, Cathy leads with enthusiasm, creativity and a drive to create impact within the not-for-profit sector. Cathy fosters innovation through fundraising and program development with a strong belief that not-for-profit organizations should step up and shine by increasing their social profit margins.
Nova Scotia SPCA - Co-Founder
Liz brings more than 20 years of experience to her consulting work with Sargasso Philanthropic CIC (Nova Scotia, Canada). Liz has served as a board member with local Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) boards, was the past chair of the AFP Women’s Impact Initiative, the past co-chair of the AFP Fundraising Bill of Rights Task Force, and currently sits on the board of the African American Development Officer Network (AADO).
Muthoni Kariuki, CFRE
Wild Woman Fundraising - CEO
Mazarine Treyz excels at motivating audiences to lead, to fundraise and question the status quo in the nonprofit sector. She taught fundraising to over 22,000 people from 2011-2023. Her works include 10 courses on fundraising & 3 books on nonprofit careers, fundraising and marketing. Treyz is committed to racial equity and justice, starting with her work at the Urban League of Portland in 2008.
Boundless Philanthropy - Founder & Principal
Nicole brings extensive experience working in the nonprofit and charitable sector as a curious leader and fund development strategist. She is the founder of Boundless Philanthropy, a consultancy providing a range of services, including sustainable business modeling, strategy development, and Raiser’s Edge database configuration and support. She is a co-Editor of the book Collecting Courage: Joy, Pain, Freedom, Love, and former book review panelist and contributing editor with the defunct online publication The Charity Report.
Mon, Apr 8, 2024
10:00am - 10:30am
Learning Lab 1
Do More Good With Your Golf Fundraiser (Learning Lab) Presented by Golf Status
A golf event can be a hassle—but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be! GolfStatus is the leading platform for charity golf tournaments and fundraisers. Hear how it makes organizing and executing a successful golf fundraiser easier than ever, with solutions that save time and raise more money.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Golfstatus - Sales and Education Director
Logan Foote has been around the game of golf his whole life, but despite thousands of attempts, he’s never gotten a hole-in-one (except in mini golf). His passion for golf led him to GolfStatus in 2017, where he discovered the sport’s power for good. As Sales and Education Director, Logan oversees a team that works with thousands of nonprofits to maximize their golf fundraisers and shares his golf fundraising expertise through GolfStatus’ educational webinars.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 717 A/B
Get to know your donors to increase engagement. Legal Aid and their LGBTQ+ audience
You need to know who your audiences are so that you can engage them. Learn how Legal Aid Society targets new donors to continue an important initiative defending the rights of LGBTQ+ people. We will show you how to target new donors and present content in a brisk fundraising pitch.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Langton Creative Group, Ltd. - President
I’m a designer (president of Langton Creative Group in NY), educator (adjunct at Hostos College/CUNY), writer, and cartoonist (IG: Davidlangton1961) who believes in using the power of design as a transformative tool in promoting change in our world. My book is Visual Marketing (Wiley). I’ve worked with nonprofits, including, Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, Children's Aid, The International Rescue Committee, and The Legal Aid Society. I’m a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design.Deborah Brozina, MBA
Making Change Productions - President
Content that connects to the right audiences is expensive to produce and distribute – especially for nonprofits. Having a solid, documented content strategy makes sure that you are targeting who needs what message when from the organization and in what context. Deborah Brozina specializes in content strategy, creation, and distribution. She blends her deep background in content creation and technology development to support clients including Carnegie Foundation, The Economist Group, and Phelps Memorial Hospital.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 601 A/B
Demystifying Wellbeing: Taking the “Woo Woo” out of Individual and Organizational Wellbeing
This interactive session will focus on demystifying “wellbeing” by sharing research and practical examples of the how to prioritize individual and organizational wellbeing. The session will illuminate the importance of wellbeing as foundational element for leadership. The session will also highlight the important connection between wellbeing and inclusion.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Mon, Apr 8, 2024
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 716 A/B
The fundraising profession taking over the world
Fundraisers, let's dominate the world! The fundraising profession is present in every continent of the world and in this session you will develop a global perspective of the profession, its ethics and career opportunities, with examples from Egypt, Brazil, Japan and other countries.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
GivingTuesday - Director
GivingTuesday Director for the Latin American and the Caribbean Hub. CEO of the Brazilian Fundraisers Association (ABCR) from 2015 to 2023. PhD student researching philanthropy and author of the book Economic Sustainability of Civil Society Organizations. Board member of the Brazilian charities Fundação Amor Horizontal, Fundação NHR Brasil and Kibô-no-Iê. CSR Professor and Alumni Manager at FECAP, Brazil.
Greenpeace Mena - Regional Fundraising Director
Perihan is a Regional Fundraising Director at Greenpeace MENA, with extensive fundraising leadership experience. She served for two years in AFP global board as At Large Director in 2023 and The Chapters Presidents' Council -CPC representative in 2022, where she was the first Arab woman nominated to this seat. She is also Immediate Past Chapter President of AFP Egypt and MENA Chapter.Masataka Uo, CFRE
Japan Fundraising Association - CEO
Masataka UO is the founder and CEO of Japan Fundraising Association, the Asian largest fundraisers network that promotes philanthropic giving and fundraising in Japan, and the founder of Fundrex, a leading consulting company in Japan which provides strategic development, fundraising management, and system consulting for more than 150 nonprofits and social business. He is CFRE and adjunct professor of Shizenkan Graduate School.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
12:00pm - 12:20pm
Learning Lab 1
AI and Ethics: What We Know … and Don’t Know (Learning Lab) Presented by AFPeeps
AI offers exciting opportunities for charities and nonprofits, from automating administrative tasks to gaining insight from data. However, integrating AI requires navigating complex ethical considerations unique to the fundraising sector. This session will highlight the findings in the recent Rogare report, Artificial Intelligence and Fundraising Ethics: A Research Agenda, with Cherian Koshy, project chair, and Alice Ferris, a member of the project group.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Cherian Koshy, CFRE
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 millionsAlice Ferris, ACFRE, CFRE, MBA, AFP Master Trainer
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.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
1:00pm - 1:30pm
Learning Lab 2
Are You Fit to Fundraise? Transform Your Donation Form for Greater Giving (Learning Lab) Presented by Donor Box
Are you looking to boost your fundraising efforts, bring in more donations, and better support your mission? The solution could be simpler than you think - transforming your online donation form! A well-designed form builds donor trust, improves the donor experience, and makes donating fast and easy, leading to increased gifts. In this interactive session, Donorbox experts will discuss the key elements of a successful donation form through a comprehensive “donation form fitness test.” You’ll leave with several actionable tips and the knowledge to get your form into shape, helping you raise more funds for your cause.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Donorbox - Head of Europe
Killian Raynor, a European nonprofit veteran, brings a proven fundraising track record from his time at the Red Cross and World Vision. Driven by a belief in creating lasting change, he excels in relationship-building, predictive fundraising, crafting creative campaigns, and securing the resources needed to make a difference.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 701A
Everything You Need To Know About African American High Wealth Donors
Are you effectively engaging African American high wealth donors? The data available on major gift donors of color is limited as compared to other demographic groups, and especially for African Americans. But these donors are highly philanthropic and give more of their household income per capita - don't miss out!
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
National Civil Rights Museum - Chief Marketing & Development Officer
Tiffany Legington Graham is the Chief Marketing & Development Officer for the National Civil Rights Museum, overseeing brand strategy and fundraising. She has 20 years of for-profit and non-profit experience. Previous leadership roles include: ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Tulane University, Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts+Culture and Levine Museum of the New South. She is an alumna of the University of Southern California and Georgia Tech, and serves on several advisory boards.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 713 A/B
How to Implement Strategies for Increasing Engagement and Philanthropy among Donors of Color
This presentation will allow participants to assess their organization’s diverse constituency landscape and establish a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) action plan to embed into their current fundraising initiatives. The session will introduce DEI strategies that align with their fundraising plans and priorities. Participants will work in small groups to assess their organization’s DEI goals, shortfalls, and opportunities; and will leave with the building blocks to create an action plan to improve the donor engagement and giving within their organization.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Alyssia Coates, PhD
Brown University - Senior Director of Development, Inclusive Philanthropic Engagement
Dr. Alyssia Coates is the Senior Director of Development, Inclusive Philanthropic Engagement for Brown University Advancement Division and Advancement Academic Liaison to faculty and administrative leadership. She formerly served for 24 years at the University of Notre Dame in many leadership roles, including regional director of development, senior leader for the enrollment management team, and professor for the college of the first year of studies.
Guilford College - Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations
LaDaniel “Danny” Gatling II, a higher education development professional with experience in philanthropic management and institutional advancement. Gatling serves as the Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations at Guilford College in Greensboro, NC. Prior to Guilford, he served as the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Bennett College. Before joining Bennett, Gatling worked at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Elon University School of Law, and North Carolina A&T State University.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Room 802 A/B
How to Create a Donor Newsletter That Raises Money
Donor newsletters can play a key role in your annual (and legacy!) fundraising strategies. Join Holly to learn how to plan and execute all the details of a newsletter appeal, how and when to integrate digital with print, what data to track, and get inspired by lots of real-life examples!
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Holly H. Paulin, CFRE
Broccoli - Partner
Holly H. Paulin, CFRE has been a professional fundraiser for over 20 years. She’s equally passionate about emotional storytelling and good data analytics, and strongly believes that the best fundraising happens at their intersection. After working as both a front-line fundraiser and a consultant, Holly co-founded Broccoli in 2021. She is a graduate of Humber’s Fundraising program, holds a B.Sc. from Mount Allison University, and served as Co-Chair of AFP Ottawa’s 2021 Fundraising Day conference.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
2:30pm - 3:00pm
Learning Lab 1
Gifts that Grow: AI-Enhanced Strategies for Expanding Major Contributions - (Learning Lab) Presented by Donor Search
Gifts that Grow: AI-Enhanced Strategies for Expanding Major Contributions" is a dynamic session for forward-thinking philanthropists, fundraisers, and nonprofit leaders seeking to elevate their major gift efforts. In this engaging session, participants will delve into the cutting-edge intersection of artificial intelligence and philanthropy, discovering how AI can predict potential major contributions and enhance the personalization and effectiveness of fundraising campaigns.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
DonorSearch - Senior Onboarding Specialist
Cathy Allwine has been part of the DonorSearch Client Success team for 7 years. She has presented over 1500 webinars, live sessions at conferences, and in-person training sessions for DonorSearch clients and specializes in helping clients understand how to use DonorSearch data to achieve their specific goals. Prior to DonorSearch, Cathy excelled in various customer services roles, including insurance sales, web development and email marketing, hospitality and retail.
DonorSearch - Director of Sales Operations
Jason brings over 5 years of invaluable experience to DonorSearch, where he has made significant strides in his journey from an eager account executive to becoming the Director of Sales and Operations. In his current role, Jason plays a pivotal role in driving revenue, sales strategies, and operational efficiencies, working closely with DonorSearch's Executive Vice President, Patrick Tedesco. Jason has been instrumental in transforming the culture of the sales team by embracing how non-profits fundraise.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 717 A/B
Raising Money Where You Don’t Live: Funding in Secondary Markets
Sometimes our organizations are so good at what they do, they decide to grow. And our network has too, also. In our time together, we'll be breaking down that stigma that we’re an “outsider” in the community, orienting funders in a new area, and how to steward relationships over time.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Steven Mandeville, MBA
The Family Initiative - Director, Fund Development
Steven Mandeville is the Director of Fund Development for The Family Initiative. Mandeville oversees a team raising money for the multi-state agency in Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. Currently, Mandeville is focused on training the expanding fund development team and building development relationships in north Texas where TFI is expanding. The team has raised over $1.5m since he joined the agency. Mandeville earned his bachelors and masters in business degrees from Oklahoma State University.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
3:45pm - 5:00pm
Room 802 A/B
Cultivating Abundance - Big Gifts for Small Shops
Can small nonprofits raise major gifts? You bet! Let's break down the taboos surrounding money and explore cultivating a mindset of abundance. You'll leave with the confidence you need and the practical steps of how to identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Elisabeth Noble, CFRE
Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness - Philanthropy Lead
Elisabeth Noble, CFRE is the Philanthropy and Campaign Lead at the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness. She has raised millions of dollars for social, cultural and environmental organizations in the USA and Canada. She holds a BFA from Concordia University and is dedicated to exploring the way that culture, storytelling, music and art can act as critical levers in solving the world's intersecting crises.Mon, Apr 8, 2024
4:30pm - 5:00pm
Learning Lab 1
Charting Success: Navigating the Dynamics of Fundraising with the Fundraising Effectiveness Project (Learning Lab)
Step into the strategic realm of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project (FEP) and explore its transformative influence on fundraising methodologies within nonprofit organizations. This session highlights FEP's critical role in refining fundraising practices by offering advanced tools for measuring and boosting annual growth in contributions. A joint initiative between the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and GivingTuesday, FEP employs a comprehensive approach through its annual Fundraising Effectiveness Survey and the innovative Fundraising Fitness Test. Gain insights into how FEP's detailed analysis of data from a myriad of nonprofits and a multitude of donors informs organizations, steering them towards data-driven, growth-focused decisions. Engage with us to comprehend the imperative of weaving FEP's nuanced analyses and strategic recommendations into the fabric of your everyday fundraising activities. Attendees will also receive a print copy of the 2023 Q4 Report.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Tim Sarrantonio, MA
Neon One
Tim Sarrantonio is an internationally renowned speaker on generosity, technology, and the trends in the social good sector. After helping various causes raise over $3 million, he then moved into providing support for thousands of nonprofits through his work at Neon One. He has spoken at AFPICON, NTC, TEDx, and holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy.Tue, Apr 9, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 701A
Fundraising is Funny
Share laughs as we unpack the ridiculous situations happening in sector. Sometimes we just have to laugh at ourselves in order to learn. The root of each of these stories is a serious ethical question, a system or structure or person that allowed it to happen. Because fundraising is funny.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Lynne Wester, Masters in Fundraising
Donor Relations Guru LLC - Founder and Principal
Lynne is regularly featured in publications such as the Washington Post, Chronicle of Philanthropy, and CASE Currents and has contributed to two books and authored four books of her own on a myriad of industry topics. Lynne received her B.A. from the University of South Carolina, holds a Masters in Strategic Fundraising and Philanthropy from BayPath University, and proudly sports a DUCKtorate from the Disney Institute.Clay Buck, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer
TCB Fundraising - Founder and Principal
Clay is a dynamic speaker and teacher and an internationally recognized thought leader in fundraising and nonprofit management. He is an experienced frontline fundraiser with over three decades of leading successful individual giving programs. A frequent speaker, trainer, and author, Clay makes his home in Las Vegas, Nevada where he teachers fundraising and strategic planning in the Fundraising/Nonprofit Certificate programs and graduate school at University of Nevada, Las Vegas.Tue, Apr 9, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 713 A/B
Write and Wrong: Developing Million Dollar-plus Proposals
Proposal structure, wording and imagery could motivate some donors to give to your organization, and cause others to take their generosity elsewhere. We will discuss inspiring with emotion and justifying with logic, including the steps to take and the ones to avoid when your goal is securing a significant gift.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Ruane Remy, MJ (Master of Journalism)
Toronto Metropolitan University - Communications Officer
Ruane Remy is experienced at crafting persuasive narratives that inspire donors to give millions of dollars to fund innovation and equity in health care, medical research, and leading education. She specializes in developing proposals, grants, and cases for support, which have been key in securing gifts as generous as $50 million-plus. Her experience in advancement communications spans supporting higher education at Toronto Metropolitan University and top Canadian hospitals at University Health Network through UHN Foundation.Tue, Apr 9, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 803 A/B
The Cockpit, Congress, and Charities: Stories from a Nonprofit CEO (Presented by CharityEngine)
From flying Navy jets to lobbying for the beer industry to serving as the CEO (and savior) of Help Heal Veterans, “Captain Joe” McClain has overcome challenges in many forms. In this presentation, he will share inspiring stories from the military, political, and nonprofit sectors. Through his personal anecdotes and practical insights, nonprofit executives will learn how to apply leadership principles, turn obstacles into opportunities, and foster a culture of resilience in their organizations. Join CharityEngine’s Director of Client Success, Alexis Langley, CAE, as she chats with Joe about his unique career and lessons he’s learned.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Alexis Langley, CAE
CharityEngine - Director of Client Success
Alexis Langley, CAE, is a relationship-building, technology-loving problem solver. As a proud Certified Association Executive with a decade of experience serving the non-profit industry, Alexis has empowered countless mission-driven organizations to raise more money, engage their communities, and grow their impact. In her current role as CharityEngine's Director of Client Success, Alexis helps clients maximize their experience and achieve their goals.Joseph McClain, MA
Help Heal Veterans - CEO
Joe McClain serves as the CEO of Help Heal Veterans whose mission is to heal the invisible wounds of war through creativity by manufacturing and distributing therapeutic crafts supporting VA/military health care. His unique background includes flying jets and command-at-sea in the Navy; and developing and executing the legislative strategy for the beer industry as President of the Beer Institute trade association. Joe is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy.Tue, Apr 9, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 717 A/B
The Keys to Donation Form Conversion: Design and Optimization (Presented by Blackbaud)
In this session, you'll learn how to design a donation form that converts visits into donations. We'll cover the 6 hallmarks of a high-converting nonprofit donation form and how you can modify your donation forms accordingly. We'll also define optimization and discuss strategies for making and testing small changes to your forms to best meet the needs of your donors. Finally, we'll share a case study where design and optimization had a real impact on conversions.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Tue, Apr 9, 2024
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 715 A/B
CANCELLED Unleashing Leadership Potential: Coaching for Nonprofit Success and Building Inclusive Teams
Unleash your leadership potential and build strong, diverse, and inclusive teams in your nonprofit organization. This interactive workshop using John Maxwell's leadership principles teaches effective communication, team-building strategies, and how to create a culture of success. Gain valuable insights and actionable steps to enhance your leadership skills.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Dale Richardson, JD
Tue, Apr 9, 2024
9:15am - 9:45am
Learning Lab 2
AI and Innovations in Prospecting and Marketing with Sylogist MISSION CRM + Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit (Learning Lab)
AI and Innovations in Prospecting and Marketing with Sylogist MISSION CRM + Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit See the latest AI tools and innovations from Microsoft and MISSION CRM to make fundraising and communications easier and more effective. We’ll explore how fundraisers can use this cutting-edge tech to segment, analyze, target and execute effective campaigns to attract new donors and unearth potential opportunities.
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Tue, Apr 9, 2024
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 803 A/B
You Can Be More Than Remotely Successful Fundraising Remotely
While meeting prospects face-to-face is the preferred method, raising money while video-conferencing is becoming increasingly common. In this session, we will provide strategies for fundraisers stewarding donors and cultivating gifts without a single in-person meeting. You will learn best practices for successfully working remotely while developing deep connections with colleagues.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Yael Rosen, CFRE
Jody Braunig, CFRE, LMSW
Lost Tribe - Director of Development
Jody has dedicated her professional journey to creating positive change in the world. With over two decades of experience as a non-profit professional and outstanding volunteer, she has earned recognition in both the New Orleans and Jewish communities. Currently serving as the Development Director for Lost Tribe, Jody adds a touch of joy to life as a baseball mom, Float Lieutenant and 2024 Royalty for the Krewe of King Arthur.Tue, Apr 9, 2024
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 603
Interactive Listening Workshop: AI for Fundraisers (Presented by Microsoft)
Interested in AI for your nonprofit, but not sure where to start? Join our interactive workshop where you’ll discuss best practices for AI with your fellow fundraising practitioners and connect with technology providers who making a global impact in the AI space. In this hands-on session, you’ll also have the chance to share your thoughts on AI with teams that are building the technology, and leave with valuable connections and ideas you can implement in 2024.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Christina Macchiarola, MBA, Other
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
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.Tue, Apr 9, 2024
10:45am - 11:15am
Learning Lab 2
Unlocking Impact: Exploring the Power of Impact Frameworks for Nonprofits (Learning Lab) Presented by UpMetrics
Unlock your nonprofit’s impact potential with our transformative session on crafting impact frameworks. Discover why impact frameworks are essential for operationalizing your impact, including measuring progress, driving continuous improvement, and showcasing outcomes to attract support from funders and donors. In essence, an Impact Framework is more than a tool; it's a blueprint for driving meaningful change, maximizing effectiveness, and instilling confidence in stakeholders. Learn to articulate your mission and objectives with clarity, and select the right metrics to measure progress towards goals. This session equips you with the skills and insights needed to measure, communicate, and amplify your nonprofit's impact.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
