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.
Introductory/Foundational
How to Become a Certified Fund Raising Executive (Learning Lab) Presented by CFRE
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 dive into the eligibility requirements, application tips, and all things related to the CFRE Exam, as well as answer your questions. You’ll leave the session with a clear understanding of how to achieve your CFRE credential.
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 only 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. Before that, she was a member of the consulting team at Johnson Grossnickle & Associates and was Assistant Professor of English and Director of the Writing Center at Franklin College. Aldrich has been widely published in fundraising journals and is one of the editors of Achieving Excellence in Fundraising, 3rd Edition, from Jossey-Bass.Expanding Your Donor Base: Advocating for Disability Inclusion and Access
Elizabeth Ralston and Troy Coalman are professionals with disabilities who are passionate about helping organizations incorporate accessibility and inclusion principles into every facet of an organization. In this session, you will learn about implicit bias and be equipped with strategies to engage people with disabilities as donors, including older people.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Elizabeth Ralston, MPH
Elizabeth Ralston Consulting, LLC - Elizabeth Ralston Consulting, LLC
Elizabeth Ralston is a consultant who guides organizations in the strategic development of an accessibility roadmap, with an emphasis on equity and inclusion. She has a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan and a certificate of Nonprofit Management from the University of Washington. As a deaf woman who uses cochlear implants, Elizabeth faces accessibility challenges every day. Her hearing loss never stopped her from achieving her life goals. As a Peace Corps Volunteer in Africa, she saw the powerful impact a person can have on others’ lives. She has devoted her life to public service ever since.
Wellspring - Senior Fundraising Executive & Accessibility Advocate
Troy Coalman is the Senior Director of Donor Impact with Wellspring Family Services in Seattle. His career spans three decades, encompassing the education, arts, social justice, and LGBT equality sectors. His expertise includes Annual Fund, Major Gifts, Legacy Giving, Data, Technology, Grants, and Events. Mr. Coalman is a sought-after educator who is an Instructor with the University of Washington teaching Fundraising Management. He has held leadership roles with AFP regionally and advised the international organization on accessibility. Alongside his fundraising career he also advocates for the disabled community, speaking on accessibility awareness and collaborating with the Seattle Cultural Accessibility Consortium.Exploring Real World Ethical Scenarios and Doing What is Right
How do you figure out what is the correct thing to do when confronted by a challenging situation involving a donor or your organization? In this session, participants will review and evaluate 5-8 real world ethical scenarios through small group facilitated discussions.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Jamie McMahon, CFRE, MA
Community College of Allegheny County - CEO, CCAC Educational Foundation
Jamie McMahon, CFRE is CEO of the Educational Foundation at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh, and has 20 years of experience in fundraising, strategic planning, and nonprofit management. He previously worked at Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh, and as a fundraising consultant for Ketchum. He teaches fundraising at Carnegie Mellon University and holds an A.B. from Dartmouth College, an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge, and is completing a doctorate in higher education management at the University of Pittsburgh.How to Craft Compelling Legacy Giving Key Messages, Taglines and Wordmarks
In this dynamic session, participants will delve into the art of crafting compelling legacy messages, taglines and wordmarks that resonate with donors and motivate charitable legacy gifts. Come with your questions about legacy giving messaging, and leave with actionable next steps to apply to your organization.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Aimée Lindenberger, CFRE
Refocus Fundraising - Chief Engagement Officer
Aimée Lindenberger, Founder of Refocus Fundraising and author of "How to Talk About Legacy Giving," brings over two decades of marketing and communications expertise to every organization she works with. Holding a certificate in Philanthropic Psychology and degree in Graphic Communications Management, she shares innovative strategies with nonprofits. Aimée has a commitment to advancing philanthropy, having played leadership roles in the Greater Vancouver Chapters of AFP and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners.Navigating New Horizons: Leveraging Data Insights from FEP Q4 2024 for Enhanced Fundraising Effectiveness
Join a team assembled by FEP to hear the latest research from the initiative’s Q4 2024 report. This session brings together experts and seasoned fundraising practitioners to discuss the latest trends and data insights that will inform and enhance your fundraising strategies, helping you make informed, growth-oriented decisions.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
GivingTuesday - Data Scientist
Parsa Torabian is a Senior Data Scientist at GivingTuesday focused on sector-wide research, technology, and data infrastructure in supporting the GivingTuesday Data Commons. With a background in engineering, Parsa brings his experience in software development, statistical modelling, and AI research to solve complex technical challenges in the non-profit sector. He leads the technical development of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project on behalf of GivingTuesday.Tim Sarrantonio, MA
Neon One, LLC - Director of Corporate Brand
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. He lives in Niskayuna with his lovely wife, three lovely daughters, and a deep love of the Adirondacks.Cognitive Impairment in Donors: What You Need to Know
With 1 in 7 people ages 72+ showing signs of cognitive impairment, it's inevitable that you and your organization will encounter elderly donors in cognitive decline. Are you prepared to handle this situation? This session will teach you actionable best practices for managing situations of cognitive impairment in elderly donors.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Tara Adams, JD, Ed.M.
North Carolina State University - Director of Philanthropy
Tara Adams has spent her professional career dedicated to education, serving in roles at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, University of Illinois College of Law at Urbana-Champaign, and North Carolina State University. She also worked in the Judicial Education division at the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts in addition to spending years raising funds as a member of the Auxiliary Board for the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Illinois. Tara received her B.S. from Illinois State University. She received her Ed.M. and JD from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where Tara is also a current Ph.D. student.Anthony Pomonis, CFRE
University of Central Florida - Executive Director of Advancement
Anthony Pomonis, CFRE has spent the last two-plus decades helping individuals unlock meaningful experiences in their lives. He has served as a major gift officer for the University of Illinois, 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, opening 5 regional restaurants. He served on the Regional Executive Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters, spent 5 years on the executive board of his local Greek Orthodox Church, and 2 years in service at the Kirby Medical Foundation Board.How to Build the Plan While You're Flying It!
Join our dynamic educational session tailored for fundraising professionals seeking to craft a detailed fundraising plan while juggling day-to-day duties. This workshop will arm you with powerful strategies and tools to refine your planning process, enabling the creation of effective fundraising initiatives without compromising your ongoing projects.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Robin Kasel, CFRE
Cornerstone Consulting Solutions LLC - Owner
Robin Kasel, CFRE, has over 20 years of experience in sales, project and account management, and professional fundraising. Robin has extensive, practical experience in annual fund management, strategy and fund development, capital campaigns, board management, event planning, and major gift fundraising. With a degree in Psychology, she understands what drives people to make decisions, causing them to give. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers, Big Sisters of East Central Wisconsin and her local AFP Chapter. Robin has been a member of AFP since 2014 and received her Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) credential in 2020.Alice Ferris, ACFRE, CFRE, MBA
GoalBusters Consulting - Partner
Alice L. Ferris, MBA, CFRE, ACFRE, Partner, is the founder of GoalBusters, providing comprehensive leadership for small nonprofit teams. With 30+ years of fundraising experience in public media, rural healthcare, education, and science, Alice excels in finding creative solutions, working with dedicated leaders, and teaching practical tactics. She is a sought-after consultant, mentor, and positively reviewed speaker. Alice also serves as adjunct faculty for the Nonprofit Leadership Program at the University of Denver.Donor Development Conversations – Nurturing Donor Relationships at Every Stage of the Fundraising Cycle
As fundraisers, managing prospect pipelines can feel overwhelming. With thoughtful preparation, however, fundraisers can confidently and intentionally implement personalized cultivation strategies with qualified, like-minded prospects and secure sustained support. Lasting donor relationships begin with intentional, one-on-one conversations. When you implement prospecting strategies in every step of the donor cycle, you uncover prospects’ giving motivators, deepen your relationships, and create meaningful giving opportunities. Through hands-on practice with real-world scenarios, participants will: Establish a prospect research strategy. Develop effective questioning approaches. Activate key stakeholders (board, volunteers) to support prospecting and cultivation. Align donor passions with impactful outcomes to foster support.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Pearl Hoeglund, MBA
Fundraising Academy at National University - Director
With over thirteen years in the philanthropy sector, Pearl Hoeglund is dedicated to empowering fundraisers by removing barriers to essential training, enabling them to drive revenue growth and create lasting impact in their communities. As the Director of Fundraising Academy at National University, Pearl leads a talented and dedicated team in launching transformative initiatives that make high-quality fundraising education accessible to all. Under Pearl’s leadership, the team delivers live and on-demand cohort-based certificate programs, training, and digital curricula focused on relationship-driven fundraising.Jack Alotto, CFRE, MA
Fundraising Academy at National University - Trainer
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. In July of 2023, Jack became a Faculty Training Academy - AFP Certified Facilitator.Jarrod Williams, CFRE, MBLI
Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh - 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 on behalf ULGP. Jarrod is one of only 75 proud black male Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). He is also a member of the Men of Color in Development (MOCID). In December 2023, Jarrod completed the Faculty Training Academy becoming a AFP Certified Facilitator.Small but Mighty! Fundraising Planning for Small Fundraising Teams
This interactive and engaging session is built for small fundraising teams and staff who have fundraising as part of their role. We’ll discuss how to make small but impactful shifts in strategies and planning to significantly boost your fundraising success, and fundraising efforts that focus on your organization’s strengths.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Charity Shift - Fundraising Consultant
Sara Hoshooley is a fundraising consultant and coach who LOVES working with small nonprofit organizations and small fundraising teams to create customized fundraising plans that raise more money. As a former small charity Executive Director she understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing small but growing nonprofits. Her unique approach uses each organization's strengths to grow fundraising in an authentic and sustainable way.Jas Jhooty, MA
Independent - Consultant
Both as a direct line fundraiser and consultant, Jas has over 16 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. As a consultant, Jas supports charities of all sizes with fundraising planning, fundraising audits, donor journey mapping, and monthly giving program development and growth.Shifting the Paradigm Landscape: Increasing Engagement and Philanthropy Among Alumni of Color
This presentation will allow participants to assess their organization’s diverse constituency landscape and establish a diversity, equity, and inclusion action plan to embed into their current fundraising initiatives. Participants 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
Brown University - Brown University
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. Dr. Coates 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. Dr. Coates is a certified Maxwell Leadership coach and presents annually for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the National Association for Diversity Officers in Higher Education.LaDaniel Gatling II, MA, CFRM
Guilford College - Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations
LaDaniel “Danny” Gatling II 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. Gatling has also worked at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Elon University School of Law, and North Carolina A&T State University. Gatling earned a B.S. degree in Architectural Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and a M.A. in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University.Fundraising Career Success: Strategies from 2024 AFP Young Professional Awardees
Learn to navigate the fundraising career by cultivating a supportive community and advocating for necessary resources. With high turnover rates, support for young professionals is vital. Gain insights from AFP Outstanding Young Professionals on utilizing AFP, community networks, and educational resources to advance your career while preventing burnout.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Autism Edmonton - Development Officer
Santana, a dynamic and enthusiastic neurodivergent woman, boasts 14 years of dedicated experience in the non-profit sector through professional roles and extensive volunteer work. Her journey underscores a commitment to fostering positive change and inclusivity. With expertise spanning program development, event management, fund development, volunteer coordination, policy creation, website development, and social media management, Santana has been instrumental in various initiatives. Recognized for her dedication to diversity and inclusion, she was honored with the 2024 Outstanding Young Professional Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
MoveOn - Director, Donor Retention & Direct Response
Madeleine Durante is a resource mobilizer for social justice. As Director of Donor Retention & Direct Response at MoveOn, the nation’s largest independent progressive advocacy group, Madeleine leads retention and multichannel fundraising. Prior to MoveOn, Madeleine held fundraising roles at Planned Parenthood’s national office, and served as co-chair of their LGBTQ employee resource group. She is a board alumni and volunteers with the New York Abortion Access Fund, and received AFP-Global’s 2024 Outstanding Young Professional Award.Ryan Zapolski, CFRE
Smile Train - Director, Development
Ryan Zapolski, CFRE, is a Director of Development at the New York-based nonprofit Smile Train, Inc. He currently serves on the board of AFP Greater Cleveland and earned recognition as one of AFP's Outstanding Young Professionals in 2024. A lifelong fundraiser, Ryan has held roles in higher education and global healthcare. Committed to civic engagement, he also volunteers for the Cleveland Leadership Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and College Now Greater Cleveland.
Carlos Rosario International School - Associate Director of Development
Dimetri O'Brien, a seasoned fundraising and communications expert in DC, boasts over a decade in non-profit development. With a diverse career spanning public and private sectors, including roles at The United Nations and Facebook, he's shaped national and international initiatives. Currently, Dimetri serves as Associate Director of Development at Carlos Rosario International School, crafting innovative solutions for educational advancement. His dedication and expertise are instrumental in creating new opportunities and brighter futures for learners from diverse backgrounds.Simplify: Elevate Your Fundraising with Clear Cultivation, Communication, and Strategy
"Simplify" redefines success in fundraising. Learn to craft impactful cultivation plans, master storytelling for donor engagement, and enhance communication strategies. Streamline your approach for clarity and effectiveness, ensuring lasting impact in your fundraising efforts.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Who Needs Ethics When I’ve Got To Plunge The Toilet??!?!?!
A practical how and why of ethical behavior when it seems to be at the bottom of the daily to do list A practice that every ethical Board must do and how it can boost Gram, X, TikTok and Facebook How ethics influences staff, volunteers, donors and mission recipients
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Annie Fritschner, ACFRE, MBA - Volunteer Leader
Annie Fritschner, ACFRE, MBA is a member of the AFP USA Foundation Board, and an active volunteer consultant for Catchafire NGOs throughout the world. She has been in fundraising as a practitioner and consultant since 1978 and has worked in all aspects of the Independent Sector including faith based, small shop, education, environmental. arts, healthcare, political and community-based fundraising. She is an Athena Leadership Award recipient for her work serving women and the vulnerable.Unsung & Untold: Black Philanthropists of the Past, Present & Future
Unsung & Untold: Black Philanthropists of the Past, Present & Future, this enlightening session unearths many stories about how Blacks and Africans use philanthropy to take action, build communities, and experience joy. Join three Truthtellers for a jampacked storytelling session. This is Part 1 of a 2-part educational series.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Adrienne Taylor, MBA, CFRE
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 a former President of the Greater Cincinnati Chapter and a former 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.
The Ohio State University Extension - Area Leader, Hamilton and Butler Counties
As a development professional Victoria has learned a great deal about the science behind engaging in diverse communities and enjoys sharing her knowledge with other professionals. While her specialty is grant writing she has a breadth of experience from her days as a one-woman development team at small organizations.Beyond the Basics: Using the AFP Code of Ethics and Member Code of Conduct
Fair and ethical conduct is the foundation of professionalism and vital to maintaining integrity in fundraising. Join members of the AFP Ethics Committee and Member Code of Conduct Committee to learn how to foster trust within our industry through the understanding and application of the new AFP Member Code of Conduct and recently updated AFP Code of Ethics.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley - Senior Vice President of Advancement
John Scola has nearly 40-year’s of success with foundations, healthcare, social service, faith-based and education organizations. He is SVP Advancement with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley, leading a $23 million resource development program. John holds a B.A. from the University of Dallas, later serving on its Board of Trustees. He is a Master Teacher through the Faculty Training Academy of the AFP and is a past recipient of his chapter’s Outstanding Executive Award.Jaye Lopez Van Soest, CFRE
Music Will - Director, Philanthropy
A strategic leader with a proven track record in nonprofit management and fundraising, Jaye has dedicated over 25 years to driving positive change through fundraising efforts in education, civil rights, advocacy, food security, and accessibility. Jaye currently serves as the Director, Philanthropy for Music Will which is the largest nonprofit music program in the US public school system. Music Will strives to make music education available to all students regardless of their socioeconomic background and believes it should reflect the cultures of the students being served.Amy Rowell, EdD
IMPACT
Dr. Amy Rowell is an accomplished nonprofit leader and educator. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Arts in Public Service from Marquette University, and a Doctorate in Education from Alverno College. Amy serves IMPACT in Milwaukee, WI as Chief Operating Officer and is an adjunct instructor in the graduate school at Marquette University. She serves the AFP Southeastern Wisconsin as the chapter’s immediate past president and AFP Global as a member of the Code of Conduct committee.
WomanCare Global - VP Development
Joyce Mitchell-Antoine is currently VP for Development at Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. She is accomplished in major gifts, strategic fundraising planning, expanding development programs, and volunteer training. Joyce is the Immediate Past Chair of the AFP Global Ethics Committee and is a member of the AFP Foundation Fundraising Board.Theresa Fleck, CAE, CFRE, MA, EdD, CNP
Logan University - Vice President of Institutional Advancement
Theresa Fleck, EdD, CFRE, CAE, CNP currently serves as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Logan University. A fundraiser since 2001, Dr. Fleck has extensive experience developing strategy and executing fundraising plans for a wide range of nonprofit organizations, including; universities, independent schools, social service agencies, international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the arts. She has also been a manager of fundraising staff for over 15 years. Dr. Fleck is a CFRE, and currently serves as the immediate past president of AFP St. Louis and is a former board member of AFP Rhode Island.Roots of Change: Cultivating Relationships for Grassroots and Nonprofit Startup Success
Explore a transformative session to empower grassroots organizations and nonprofit startups through strategic relationship building. Learn practical strategies for forging alliances, engaging communities, and developing advocacy platforms that drive substantial social change. Enhance your impact by leveraging key relationships effectively.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Kimberly O'Neil, MA, MPA
Giving Blueprint - CEO
Kimberly O'Neil is an award-winning trailblazer in community capacity building and nonprofit strategy. As the founder and CEO of Giving Blueprint and leader of Cause Studio, she has empowered underresourced communities and coached over 5,000 nonprofit leaders. She was once the youngest Black female city manager in the U.S., Kimberly has generated over $22 million for social initiatives. Her work spans sectors, promoting transformative change. Kimberly is an adjunct graduate professor at Tulane University's John Lewis Public Administration Program. She is pursuing a Doctorate in Philanthropic Leadership at Indiana University's Lilly School of Philanthropy.Lifelong Donors: How to Find and Keep Monthly Sustainers
The average monthly donor gives 5 to 20 times more than single gift donors. Harvey McKinnon has written three monthly giving books, and he’ll show you how to find and keep lucrative monthly sustainers. You’ll learn techniques that promote donor loyalty, raise more money, and increase your organization's financial stability.
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Harvey McKinnon, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer)
Harvey McKinnon Associates - President
Harvey McKinnon has been a fundraiser for over 40 years and 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 & Canada. His company Harvey McKinnon Associates has offices in Toronto and Vancouver and works with dozens of non-profits in Canada and the USA.Creating Departmental Framework for Ethical Storytelling
This session advocates for ethical storytelling, emphasizing authenticity, inclusivity, and empathy. It outlines guidelines to ensure integrity, diversity, respect for privacy, avoidance of harm, and empowerment. Fostering a socially conscious narrative landscape aims to inspire positive societal change and a more equitable, compassionate world.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Derria Ford, MBA, Ed.D
Martha O Bryan Center - Chief Development Officer
Derria Ford serves as the Chief Development Officer of the Martha O Bryan Center, an anti-poverty organization in Nashville, Tennessee. She brings over seventeen years of nonprofit experience. Her expertise spans program expansion, grant administration, executive leadership, and fund development. Derria's career has been marked by exceptional ability to lead and motivate teams, strategic thinking, and building relationships with organizational stakeholders. Derria holds a doctorate in leadership from Trevecca Nazarene, where she specialized in Leadership and Professional Practice. She also holds a master's in Business Administration. Derria is a dynamic leader that believes in the power of storytelling.Unlock Your Working Genius: Elevating Fundraising Teams and Productivity
Using the popular Six Types of Working Genius framework, discover transformative insights and practical tools to reignite your joy at work, foster collaboration, and increase productivity. You’ll walk away with strategies to implement immediately. Don’t miss this opportunity to recharge and elevate your team’s potential!
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Stacey Wedding, BoardSource Certified Governance Consultant, Working Genius Certified Facilitator
The Stacey Wedding Group - Chief Strategist
Dubbed the "fairy godmother of nonprofits” by her clients, Stacey Wedding has 25+ years of nonprofit expertise working in the nonprofit sector and as a consultant to the sector. She and her team at The Stacey Wedding Group specialize in executive coaching, board governance, organizational development, and strategic planning. A sought-after keynote speaker and co-host of the highly acclaimed Nonprofit Everything podcast, Stacey is among just 80 BoardSource certified governance consultants nationwide. She is also a certified facilitator of The Six Types of Working Genius.Building Trust With Your Donors: Fundraising, the Ethical Impact Profession
In this era of misinformation and fractured political landscapes, building trust with your donors has never been more important. Policy Horizons Canada identified the top prominent disruption for 2024 and greatest threat to democracy as "people cannot tell what is true and what is not". Join us to explore the tools developed by AFP Global and AFP Canada to help you build stronger relationships with your donors and demonstrate your commitment to truth-telling and promise-keeping. Exploring both the Narrative for Canadian Fundraisers and the newly revised AFP Code of Ethics and Standards for Professional Fundraisers.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Central City Foundation - President & CEO
Jennifer Johnstone is President & CEO of Central City Foundation, an organization working to improve the lives of people in need in Vancouver’s inner city. Today, CCF pursues this agenda through community-centered philanthropy rooted in a commitment to truth, justice and reconciliation. CCF owns innovative, sustainable social purpose real estate properties and builds relationships with leading community organizations to create the opportunities for investments in community-led solutions. Jennifer’s background is in non-profit management and community resource development. Jennifer has long served as a board member with several local organizations and is currently the Chair of the board of AFP Canada.6 Things You Should Do to Get Your Board Ready for a Capital Campaign
If you’re planning a capital campaign, your board members are likely to be anxious. In this session, we’ll give you simple and effective ways to get your board members ready for a campaign.
Education Track(s): Leadership and Management
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Amy Eisenstein, ACFRE
Capital Campaign Pro - CEO
Amy Eisenstein, ACFRE, is the CEO and Co-Founder of Capital Campaign Pro. She has been a development professional and fundraising consultant for more than 25 years. Since 2008, she has consulted for nonprofit organizations on capital campaigns and major gift fundraising. She is a frequent speaker at national and local conferences and has authored several books on fundraising including, Major Gift Fundraising for Small Shops. Amy served on the board of AFP-NJ for nearly a decade, including serving as President of the board in 2014 and 2015.Pursuing State and Federal Funding Through Legislative Advocacy and Relationship Building: A Case Study
Learn how to engage with public officials to secure transformational funding for your organization. Join us to gain an understanding of how to educate government entities about your organization's impact, your value to your constituents and the community, and how you can serve as a resource to civic leaders.
Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
G2G Consulting - Vice President
Becky Watts is a Vice President with G2G Consulting, a full-service government affairs consulting firm that has raised $531 million in government funding and is based in Washington, DC, Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Becky joined G2G in 2008 and leads the company’s work in Ohio, guiding organizations on advocacy strategies and securing federal, state and local government funding. She previously served as Appropriations Director on Capitol Hill managing earmarks for U.S. Senator Mike DeWine, who is now the Governor of Ohio. With over two decades of experience, Becky knows first-hand how to secure funding and be an effective advocate.Julie Weagraff, CFRE
Girl Scouts of North East Ohio - Chief Development Officer
Julie Weagraff is the Chief Development Officer for Girl Scouts of North East Ohio where she is responsible for all fundraising and advocacy activities for the council, which covers 18 counties and serves 19,000 girl members and 9,000 adult members. She has over 30 years of nonprofit management experience. She holds a master’s degree in nonprofit management from Case Western Reserve University and a bachelor’s degree in public relations with honors from Westminster College in New Wilmington, PA. She currently serves on several boards, including the Board of Directors for the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Cleveland Chapter.How to launch a successful monthly giving program in a small non-profit
Are you looking to start a monthly giving program? Join this session to learn how to set up a monthly giving program; how to acquire new monthly donors; how to convert existing donors to monthly; and what you need to do to keep monthly donors (and even gain legacy prospects).
Education Track(s): Securing the Gift
Audience: Introductory/Foundational
Speakers
Charity Shift - Fundraising Consultant
Sara Hoshooley is a fundraising consultant and coach who LOVES working with small nonprofit organizations and small fundraising teams to create customized fundraising plans that raise more money. As a former small charity Executive Director she understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing small but growing nonprofits. Her unique approach uses each organization's strengths to grow fundraising in an authentic and sustainable way.Jas Jhooty, MA