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 And Prospective Donor Research
Sun, Apr 27, 2025
9:00am - 10:15am
Room 427 -429
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
Meena Das, Master of Science
NamasteData - CEO
Meena Das is the CEO, consultant, trainer, and speaker with NamasteData, a data and AI equity consulting practice for nonprofits. Her career spans over 15 years in data, AI, and systems over multiple countries, multiple industries. She holds three advanced (master’s) degrees in computer science, Data Science, and Computer Applications, with minors in Human-Centric Design Thinking. She has drafted multiple Data Values and Community-Centered AI Values documents across the nonprofit industry. She speaks at national and international conferences on the intersection of data, equity, inclusion, and algorithms.
GivingTuesday - Chief Data Officer
As Chief Data Officer for GivingTuesday, Woodrow has been instrumental in shaping the global generosity movement and has led ground-breaking research of individual giving behaviors. He leads the GivingTuesday Data Commons, bringing together a coalition of more than 1,000 collaborators across over 50 countries to understand the drivers of generosity to inspire more giving. Woodrow is a member of the Generosity Commission Research Task Force, serves as an advisor and is a past-Chair for Global Impact Canada's Board of Directors, and was previously a Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School.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.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.Sun, Apr 27, 2025
10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 333-334
How Australia’s Largest Domestic Charity Grew its Digital Fundraising by 298%+ from $6.4M to $25.5M
In the past 4 years, the Salvation Army Australia has undergone radical digital transformation, increasing digital fundraising by 250%+ and moving its donor base from legacy donors to younger donors. Learn the insights, tests applied and strategies behind how digital is powering up every part of the Salvos’ fundraising.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
ntegrity - Creative Director
Kyle is the Creative Director at ntegrity, an award-winning fundraising agency that combines strategy, performance marketing, and inspiring creative to help non-profits grow their revenue.
The Salvation Army (Australia) - National Head of Fundraising
Janine is the National Head of Fundraising at The Salvation Army Australia, where she has grown overall fundraising revenue by 18% over 6 years from $135 million to $160 million, and a total revenue contribution of $964m over 6 years. She has over 20 years executive and senior leadership experience with expertise in sales, marketing, philanthropy and corporate partnerships. Prior to starting her current role with The Salvation Army Janine held the role of Chief of Private Funding at World Vision Australia. And before this she was the Director of Marketing and Fundraising at The Lighthouse Foundation.Sun, Apr 27, 2025
10:45am - 12:00pm
Room 331-332
20 Years of Women’s Philanthropy Research: Implications for Growing Giving By and For Women
Building on two decades of research on gender and philanthropy, this session will highlight unique insights from the Women's Philanthropy Institute's new research on trends in women's philanthropy since 2000. Attendees will learn about the driving forces behind these changes and gain practical strategies for engaging women in philanthropy.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy - Interim Director, Women's Philanthropy Institute
Jacqueline Ackerman is interim director at the Women’s Philanthropy Institute, which believes that gender matters in philanthropy, and that solving the world’s complex problems requires perspective, leadership, and generosity from women and men. Her work centers on moving WPI research into action, delivering insights to donors, fundraisers, and sector leaders that grow women’s giving and deepen fundraisers’ engagements with women donors. Jacqueline joined the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy in 2012 after earning a Master’s in Public Affairs from the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs in Bloomington.Sun, Apr 27, 2025
4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 331-332
How to Ensure Donor Retention Success
Are you seeing low donor retention numbers year after year? Spending thousands of dollars annually to acquire new donors? We will share some of our successes in donor retention in hopes of igniting a thoughtful, engaging conversation in which participants leave with some new tools for their organizations.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Justin Duran, CFRE
Child Crisis Arizona - Vice President of Development & Communications
With more than 20 years of nonprofit experience, Justin leads a talented philanthropic resource development and communications team. Since 2016, he has been connecting a community of supporters with the mission and vision of Child Crisis Arizona. As Vice President of Development and Communications, Justin oversees the agency’s philanthropic and marketing efforts. His passion for the agency’s mission is shown through his efforts in expanding our impact by ensuring a sustainable future through philanthropic giving. Justin holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management from Northern Arizona University and earned his Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) certificate in 2019.Sun, Apr 27, 2025
4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 335 - 336
An Eventful Discussion: Exploring the Future of Fundraising Events (Presented by OneCause)
Pull up a chair and join fundraising event experts, planners, and auctioneers for an insightful panel discussion on the latest trends and challenges in event fundraising. Explore strategies to adapt to changing donor preferences, leverage technology, and stay agile, helping your nonprofit navigate and thrive in today’s event fundraising environment.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Human Rights Campaign - Deputy Director of Events
Mike Wilkinson is currently the Deputy Director of Events at the Human Rights Campaign where he works with a team of event fundraising professionals to produce 30 signature fundraising dinners nationwide. He previously worked for health-related non-profit organizations including the National Kidney Foundation and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Mike has worked extensively on creating innovations for on-site fundraising, ticket sales and registration, live and silent auctions and on-stage appeals. Mike and his colleagues at HRC have perfected the live appeal as well as overall event design to maximize the attendee experience in a way that drives revenue results.Jennifer McNulty, MA
TaylorMade Experience - VP of Talent Acquisition
Jen McNulty brings over two decades of development experience supporting nonprofit organizations. As the leader of the Talent Acquisition division at TaylorMade Experience, she also plays a pivotal role in business development and client services. Before returning to TaylorMade Experience, Jen served in many frontline fundraising roles, including a Major Gifts Officer for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, successfully raising over $1.5 million annually for her region. She also held the role of Foundation Director at the Holy Family Hospital Foundation and helped jumpstart strategic fundraising for the Dog Tag, Inc. organization.
Swaim Strategies - Founder
Samantha has more than 20 years of event planning and fundraising expertise. She founded Swaim Strategies, a fundraising event consultancy, in 2004, working internationally with nonprofit organizations to produce impactful events that move missions forward. Samantha is the co-author of “Planning a Successful Major Donor Event,” the founder of the annual Elevate fundraising event conference and co-host of “The Fundraising Elevator” podcast.
OneCause - VP of National Accounts
Emily Newberry is a sales and strategy leader in the nonprofit SaaS world. She’s passionate about technology and the impact it has on people, organizations, and communities. 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.Sun, Apr 27, 2025
4:00pm - 5:15pm
Room 420 - 422
Back to the Future in your Next Fundraising Plan: Techniques for Near-Term & Long-Term Fundraising Growth (Presented by Bloomerang)
Hop in our fundraising DeLorean! "Roads? Where we’re going, we won’t need roads!" Join us to future-proof your 2025 plan. We'll navigate data, strategy, and AI, ensuring your fundraising hits 88 mph towards sustainable success. No flux capacitor required, just your brilliant mind!
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Bloomerang - Chief Marketing Officer
As the Chief Marketing Officer at Bloomerang, Ann is responsible for the company's overall thought leadership, brand, marketing and community outreach programs that work to strengthen relationships with customers and the broader nonprofit community. Ann brings with her more than 24 years of experience in business-to-business (B2B) marketing in the technology industry, including time spent working at a nonprofit organization. Prior to Bloomerang, Ann spent two years as an independent marketing consultant for high-growth, B2B Software as a service (SaaS) businesses and was named one of the “Top Women Leaders in SaaS of 2018.Hannah Berger, CFRE
The Philanthropy Coach, LLC - President, The Philanthropy Coach
Hannah provides coaching and consulting that is derived from 20+ years of experience as a professional fundraiser, non-profit executive, campaign consultant and board member. After a decade of “side hustle” consulting while in senior Development roles, Hannah founded The Philanthropy Coach - a boutique firm that empowers, trains and connects to change makers to permanently improve fundraising. Hannah has proudly supported dozens of nonprofit organizations in raising more than $150M, specializing in major expansion campaigns, board recruitment and development, program restructuring initiatives and the creation of strategic development plans. Hannah is the current Co-President of the AFP Greater LA Chapter.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.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 331-332
Using Donor Research to Grow Your Income AND Increase the Diversity of Your Donor Base
This session will present key findings from donor research done by Amnesty International in 2022, tracking progress from an earlier survey in 2012. During that interval, racial diversity of the organization's donor base increased by 55%, and donor engagement also increased. Data collection using an equity lens will be covered.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Rosemary Oliver, CFRE
Canadian Civil Liberties Association - Advancement Director
Rosemary joined the Canadian Civil Liberties Association as Advancement Director in 2022. Rosemary was previously the Fundraising Director at Amnesty International (Canada) for 23 years and spent seven years leading Greenpeace's fundraising program. Rosemary has also raised funds for Oxfam and a small multicultural hospital. Rosemary is passionate about donor research and using research findings to develop communications and stewardship programs that result in higher levels of retention, giving and diversity of supporter bases.Marie-Helene Boubane, CFRE
Amnesty International Canada - Fundraising Director
Marie-Hélène is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 20 years of fundraising expertise. As the Director of Fundraising at Amnesty International Canada, she oversees a diverse portfolio spanning Major Gifts, Legacy Giving, Digital, and Monthly Giving. Her impressive track record includes roles at respected organizations like MSF and CARE Canada, where she honed her skills in Annual Giving, Monthly Giving, and Donor Services. Marie-Hélène's unwavering commitment to social impact drives her to maximize resources and deliver exceptional results for the causes she champions.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 345 - 346
Hidden Gems: Finding Legacy Prospects (and more) Within Your Database
Data shows an organization only knows about a third of the people who have committed to legacy gifts prior to their passing- so how do you identify the two thirds you don’t know about? Learn how to use the data you already have to identify ideal legacy donors.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Carolyn Soule, MS
The Nature Conservancy - Associate Director of Development for New Hampshire
Carolyn Soule, MS, is an experienced and results-driven fundraiser with a demonstrated history of success spanning over a decade within the arts and culture sector. Armed with a Master's degree in Strategic Fundraising and Philanthropy, she brings strategic insight and expertise in legacy giving and campaign fundraising. Her track record includes spearheading impactful initiatives that have significantly contributed to the growth and sustainability of organizations. Carolyn is committed to fostering meaningful connections and cultivating lasting relationships with donors, and excels in utilizing data to inspire philanthropic support.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 331-332
What Do Middle Donors Really Want - A Landmark Study
Attend this important briefing on a landmark study of the attitudes and preferences of more than 5900 midlevel donors from 36 different organizations. The study has yielded critical information for fundraisers looking to recruit, retain and upgrade this loyal and generous donor group.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Mark Rovner, JD, PCC
Sea Change Strategies - Principal
Mark is founder and principal at Sea Change Strategies, a research, coaching and fundraising practice serving non-profits. In his best-selling book Tribes, Seth Godin called Mark a “fundraising heretic” and a leader in the field of non-profit communications. Mark describes himself as a fundraiser who cares more about the donors and the fundraisers than the money itself. Mark works primarily with mid-level fundraisers and has co-authored multiple studies on the state of mid-level fundraising, including the latest study of nearly 6,000 mid-level donors from 36 organizations. Mark is a certified coach and holds a Law degree from Georgetown University.Alia McKee, MA
Sea Change Strategies - Principal
Alia McKee is co-principal of Sea Change Strategies. She is a veteran fundraising strategist with strategic chops and practical “in the trenches” experience developing brand-perfect fundraising strategies and campaigns. Clients have included: Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Population Services International, Everytown for Gun Safety, MoveOn, National Audubon Society, among others. Alia is a noted speaker, author and blogger. Her work has been featured in Forbes, NPR and The Chronicle of Philanthropy. Alia earned her Masters in Public Affairs and an MSW from University of Texas at Austin.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 347 - 348
The Future of Fundraising: Adapting to the New Reality of Donor Expectations and Digital Transformation (Presented by GiveSmart by Momentive Software)
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Tirrah Switzer, MBA
Momentive Software - VP of Product Marketing
Tirrah Switzer is the VP of Product Marketing at Momentive Software, where she leads market intelligence, go-to-market strategy, and messaging for a portfolio of 15 products. With a passion for nonprofit sector challenges, she co-authored 10 research studies on nonprofit member engagement, loyalty, and digital evolution trends. Her background includes leading volunteer management, membership fundraising, individual giving, and program development for several nonprofits. She stays at the forefront of industry trends, driving product and research initiatives that help nonprofits achieve their missions and enhance their impact.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
1:15pm - 2:30pm
Room 327-329
GivingPulse: Applying Trends in Giving Behavior and Perspectives for Donor Engagement Strategies
Understanding your donors and what motivates them to get and remain involved in your organization is critical for maximizing your fundraising strategies. Explore the latest research from GivingPulse, a comprehensive analysis of donor behaviors and motivations, alongside the Field Guide for a deeper dive into practical implementations of these findings.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
GivingTuesday - Chief Data Officer
As Chief Data Officer for GivingTuesday, Woodrow has been instrumental in shaping the global generosity movement and has led ground-breaking research of individual giving behaviors. He leads the GivingTuesday Data Commons, bringing together a coalition of more than 1,000 collaborators across over 50 countries to understand the drivers of generosity to inspire more giving. Woodrow is a member of the Generosity Commission Research Task Force, serves as an advisor and is a past-Chair for Global Impact Canada's Board of Directors, and was previously a Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School.
GivingTuesday - Sr. Director, US + Canada Hub
Celeste Flores, director of GivingTuesday's US and Canada Hub, manages and collaborates with local leaders on growth strategies and mobilization of GivingTuesday in communities across the United States and Canada. This includes managing the learning community of over 300+ leaders growing generosity movements for their respective and diverse communities, causes, and cultures. Celeste is a strategist focused on community-led efforts with decades of experience engaging more people in giving. Celeste previously held leadership positions at I Live Here I Give Here, Foundation For the Carolinas, University of Virginia Darden School of Business, Texas Children’s Hospital, and United Way in Houston.
GivingTuesday - Data Scientist
Annie Collins is a Data Scientist with the GivingTuesday Data Commons team. Prior to GivingTuesday, Annie spent several years in data management and research roles within the Canadian charitable sector. She utilizes this experience alongside her academic background in mathematics and statistics in hopes of supporting data-driven philanthropy worldwide.
RKD - Chief of Staff
Justin McCord serves as Chief of Staff for RKD Group, a leading fundraising solutions company for nonprofits. Justin is the host of the award-winning RKD Group: Thinkers podcast, has served as Co-Chair for the Bridge Conference and currently serves as Marketing Co-Chair for the Direct Marketing Association of Washington Board of Directors. He is a nerd for professional wrestling and the Grateful Dead. His favorite role, however, is being husband to an Elementary School Principal and father to two incredible humans.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
3:00pm - 4:15pm
Room 333-334
Suspect – Prospect – Donor! Demystifying Prospect Research for Major Gift Success from Identification to Gift
Whether you are managing a large or small fundraising shop, prospect research can turn the chaos of data into smooth processes that help you close more major gifts. You will discover how to use the right amount of research to work your way through the solicitation cycle to gift
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Tracey Church, MA, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), MLIS
Tracey Church & Associates, Research + Consulting Services - Principal, Researcher & Consultant
A professional researcher for over 25 years, Tracey has worked with over 400 organizations in education, healthcare, environment, social services, Indigenous, the arts, and STEM initiatives, among others. She was Founding President of AFP London & Region (ON) and is the Treasurer & Chair, Sponsorships. Tracey is the Co-Editor & Contributor to APRA’s ”Prospect Research in Canada” book and chapter contributor to “Excellence in Fundraising in Canada” (2nd ed.). Tracey taught Prospect Research in Fundraising in Western University’s MLIS program for 15 years; received the inaugural APRA Canada Excellence in Prospect Research Award; and, is an AFP Certified Master Trainer.
Aspire Research Group LLC; Prospect Research Institute - CEO
Jennifer Filla is a veteran fundraiser with a focus on prospect research. As CEO of Aspire Research Group LLC, she believes that every development officer deserves a methodical, replicable process for major gift success. That’s why Aspire provides specialized major gift consulting, research services, and training. Jen is co-author of “Prospect Research for Fundraisers: The Essential Handbook” as well as numerous other research workbooks, and has served as a volunteer and trustee for a variety of organizations.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
3:00pm - 4:15pm
Room 420 - 422
Leveraging Data, Systems, and Change to Elevate Your Nonprofit (Presented by CCS Fundraising)
This presentation will provide a roadmap for nonprofits to elevate their performance through the integration of data, systems, and change management. Attendees will learn about the process of continuously building a foundation for data-informed strategies and decisions, which will allow them to expand their revenue growth and mission impact.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
CCS Fundraising - Executive Vice President, Data Strategy
Allison founded and leads CCS Fundraising’s Systems practice area, partnering with complex organizations to holistically analyze fundraising operations. Centered on ‘data in practice,’ her work evaluates the ability of client systems and processes to support effective, impactful development programs, focusing on where each organization is now and where they aim to grow. A strong believer in the power of storytelling, she helps clients take ownership of their data narratives and create clear sight lines from individual activity to big picture goals.Ashutosh Nandeshwar, PhD
CCS Fundraising - Senior Vice President, Data Science and Analytics
Dr. Ashutosh Nandeshwar is a leader in creating effective systems and processes with tools and technology. Educated in systems engineering, artificial intelligence, and design thinking, he has built solutions to improve fundraising results at the world’s top higher education institutions. He has written multiple books, including co-authoring “Data Science for Fundraising.” Ashutosh earned his Ph.D. and MS in Industrial Engineering, specializing in machine learning, and an MS in design thinking. He loves speaking about the power of data and has given keynotes at national conferences. He is an active member of various professional organizations, including a term on Apra’s board.
CCS Fundraising - Principal and Managing Director
Greg is a Principal & Managing Director at CCS, the leading strategic consulting and fundraising management firm to nonprofit organizations worldwide. He serves on the CCS Board of Directors and leads the firm’s Philadelphia, Toronto, and Sydney offices in addition to its Systems and Analytics practices. He has advised hundreds of executive leaders, philanthropic partnerships, and development initiatives that have raised over $10 billion to advance the most important causes of our time. Greg earned his MBA from the Wharton School and BA from Boston College. He has visited, studied, and worked in 45 countries across all seven continents.Mon, Apr 28, 2025
3:00pm - 4:15pm
Room 427 -429
A Decade of LGBTQ+ Philanthropy: Trends and Implications for Funders and Nonprofits
The Equitable Giving Lab's LGBTQ+ Index reveals that despite heightened attention to LGBTQ+ issues, giving to LGBTQ+ organizations remains a small share of overall giving. This session will unpack trends, challenges, and opportunities that have emerged in LGBTQ+ philanthropy and discuss implications for funders and nonprofits in this pivotal moment.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Katie Hultquist, MA
Outright International - Director of Leadership Giving
Katie Hultquist is Director of Leadership Giving for Outright International, a global nonprofit advancing human rights and equality for LGBTIQ people around the world. She has 25+ years of experience in nonprofit management, philanthropy, and social justice activism for local, national, and international organizations including NPH USA, Ashoka, and many others. Katie holds an Executive Masters in Nonprofit Leadership from Seattle University and a BA in International Studies from UNC-Chapel Hill.
Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy - Interim Director, Women's Philanthropy Institute
Jacqueline Ackerman is interim director at the Women’s Philanthropy Institute, which believes that gender matters in philanthropy, and that solving the world’s complex problems requires perspective, leadership, and generosity from women and men. Her work centers on moving WPI research into action, delivering insights to donors, fundraisers, and sector leaders that grow women’s giving and deepen fundraisers’ engagements with women donors. Jacqueline joined the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy in 2012 after earning a Master’s in Public Affairs from the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs in Bloomington.Tue, Apr 29, 2025
8:00am - 9:15am
Room 323-325
Leveraging Data-Driven Strategies to Amplify Fundraising Success!
Join fundraising's best frenemy duo as they spar over their secrets behind research-driven fundraising successes. This session will dive into lively case studies and dissect the game-changing strategies that have supercharged donor engagement and fundraising outcomes. Discover how targeted research and savvy data analytics can transform your fundraising efforts.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Brooke Solutions - Founder
Cannon Brooke, founder of BROOKE Solutions, is a highly successful professional specializing in data-driven insights for nonprofits of all sizes. Building on his extensive experience, he integrates creativity and analytics to offer prospect identification, wealth analysis, giving trends, and engagement strategy services to organizations throughout the United States. Cannon has served in leadership roles at Chapman University, the University of Hawaii Foundation, and Hawaii Pacific Health, where he spearheaded successful prospect research for annual giving programs, capital projects, comprehensive campaigns, and legacy giving. Board service includes The California Advancement Researchers Association and APRA's Executive Leadership Cohort committee.Jennifer Oyer, CFRE, MA, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), FCEP
Community Impact Advisors - Founder & Chief Joy Officer
Jennifer Oyer is the Founder and Chief Joy Officer of Community Impact Advisors, a boutique fund development consulting firm providing strategic counsel for nonprofit organizations and corporations striving to increase capacity and positively impact the community. As a connector and navigator in the fundraising sector who is deeply committed to creating space for partners to achieve greater philanthropic goals, Jennifer envisions a world where joyful giving is an integral part of society and every nonprofit is financially sustainable.Tue, Apr 29, 2025
10:00am - 11:15am
Room 423 - 425
500 nonprofits have spoken! Hot Takes from The 2025 Nonprofit Marketing Survey (Presented by Feathr)
Feathr polled nearly 500 nonprofit professionals about their biggest wins, losses, challenges, and strategies over the past year - and we’re sharing their lessons with you. In this session, get real-world examples of how to… Diversify your… everything! Keep the donors you have. Navigate uncertainty with confidence.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Feathr - Associate Director of Sales
Kimberly Bottom is a passionate storyteller and a sharp strategic thinker with 15 years of experience in digital media, spending the last 10 years focused on digital content and marketing for nonprofits. With a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Central Florida, and work that earned an award from the Associated Press, Kimberly has gathered, produced and distributed thousands of hours of content to inform and inspire audiences. In her current role at Feathr, Kimberly consults with nonprofits of all shapes and sizes on the most effective and efficient ways to know, grow and engage their audiences.Tue, Apr 29, 2025
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 327-329
Two Studies on the State of African American Philanthropy
Uncover the essence of African American philanthropy with Elsie L. Scott, Ph.D. and Dr. Emmett D. Carson. From boosting HBCU support to advocating for collective giving, delve into vital research and actionable strategies for societal equity. Join the dialogue shaping a more inclusive future through philanthropy.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Emmett D. Carson, PhD
Valdry Center for Philanthropy at Southern University - Former CEO, Silicon Valley Community Foundation and Minneapolis Foundation
A social innovator, Dr. Emmett D. Carson has helped create new institutions, programs and research in the pursuit of a more equitable society. He was the first COO of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, founding CEO of Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and CEO of The Minneapolis Foundation. He has authored seminal research on African American giving and philanthropy. His graduate and undergraduate degrees are from Princeton University and Morehouse College, respectively.Elsie L. Scott, MA, PhD
Howard University - Director, Ronald W. Walters Leadership & Public Policy Center
Elsie L. Scott, Ph.D. is the founding director of the Ronald W. Walters Leadership and Public Policy Center at Howard University. She has served as president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, executive director of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, in local government and college teaching positions. She has a Ph.D. from Atlanta University in political science.Alfred Harrell, III, CFRE, MBA
Southern University System Foundation - CEO
Alfred E. Harrell, III serves as CEO of the Southern University System Foundation (SUSF). The Southern University System is comprised of five campuses located in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport, Louisiana, and is the only Historically Black College and University -System (HBCU) in the nation. As CEO, he has activated programming and expanded the organizations capacity to serve the University and its surrounding communities through the creation of the Southern University Innovation Center for Business Opportunities and Entrepreneurship and the Valdry Center for Philanthropy — the first of its kind at an HBCU.Tue, Apr 29, 2025
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 331-332
AI & Major Gifts: The Fundraiser’s Roadmap to Smarter Donor Engagement (Presented by DonorSearch)
AI is revolutionizing major gift fundraising, moving beyond wealth screening to predictive intelligence. This session explores how AI uncovers high-potential donors, forecasts major gifts, and personalizes outreach. Learn how to optimize engagement, maintain a dynamic portfolio, and convert prospects into committed donors using cutting-edge AI strategies.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Sarah Tedesco, MBA
DonorSearch - Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner of DonorSearch
Sarah TeDesco is the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner of DonorSearch, bringing 15+ years of nonprofit expertise to the fundraising industry. Since 2007, she has helped grow DonorSearch into a nationally recognized leader in fundraising technology. She focuses on company growth, operations, client success, and marketing, driven by a passion for providing nonprofits with actionable data. A recognized speaker, she has presented for AFP, Apra, AHP, and more. Sarah holds a BA in English and Psychology and an MBA from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. Her work is guided by Growth and Excellence.Tue, Apr 29, 2025
10:15am - 11:30am
Room 420 - 422
Managing the Avalanche: Prospect Research & Assignment for 2,000+ Prospects
A challenge for many development offices is conducting research on and making relationship management assignments when there are a surplus of prospects. In this session, we present a suite of processes for addressing this challenge can be adapted and replicated at other organizations.
Education Track(s): Current and Prospective Donor Research
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Campbell & Company - Consultant
Cara Anderson Rosas joined Campbell & Company as an Operations Consultant after 20 years with the University of Florida Foundation and UF Health. During that time, she took on or supervised many roles in advancement operations, including prospect research, prospect management, gift processing, CRM training, data integrity, and analytics. At UF Health, she developed and managed the hospital’s grateful patient and concierge programs. Cara brings her expertise in development operations to the full range of Campbell & Company clients. She has a BA from Wesleyan University in History and an MA from University of Florida in African History.