education sessions

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

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

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Ethics, Accountability And Professionalism


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

Photo of Eva Aldrich
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.


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

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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.


Ready, Set, Ethical AI: Preparing Your Organization for AI in Fundraising

Join us to explore the ethical integration of AI in fundraising, featuring discussions on biases, Anthropic's AI Safety Levels and the management of AI persuasion. Engage through live polls, demonstration of tools, and engaging discussion to enhance your AI strategy ethically and effectively. Don't miss this cutting-edge session!

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Keith Greer, CFRE

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


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.

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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

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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.


Meaningful Risk: Navigating Vulnerability and Transparency in Fundraising

Join us for a thought-provoking session on the intricate relationship between vulnerability, transparency, and ethical fundraising practices. Through interactive, lived, real-life examples, uncover how embracing vulnerability can foster deeper connections with donors while maintaining ethical standards--no matter your role in the organization.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Kristen Bierma

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Beacon Hill - Executive Director
Kristen has served Alaska’s children and families for the past 30 years as a clinician and as the Executive Director of Beacon Hill, a nonprofit organization focusing on supporting Alaska's children in foster care and families at risk. Kristen earned a Master of Counseling Psychology degree from Alaska Pacific University and has been a Licensed Psychological Associate since 1994. She holds two Certificates of Nonprofit Management from The Foraker Group and Boston College.

Becky Chambless, CFRE

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Ember Consulting, LLC - President
Becky is an experienced Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) with a demonstrated history of creating long-term, sustainable, relationship-based funding in the nonprofit sector. With over thirteen years of experience in fundraising, Becky runs Ember Consulting, LLC, a multi-faceted consulting firm specializing in fundraising and philanthropy consulting, and corporate community relations strategy. She is also the Development Director for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife. Becky received her B.A. in Business Administration and Management with a Nonprofit Management Emphasis from Alaska Pacific University. She earned her Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) designation in March 2016.


Red Flags in Fundraising – Been There, Done That (Unfortunately)

This session will equip nonprofit leaders with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of ethical fundraising. Discover practical strategies from leading experts in the field and engage in meaningful dialogue about maintaining the highest standards of ethical practice in your fundraising efforts.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Scott Staub, ACFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), MPA

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Brakeley Search - Managing Director
Scott Staub has, for over 30 years as a nonprofit professional, demonstrated success in building high performing teams, budgeting and financial analysis, problem-solving, and creativity, to achieve measurable results. He has served as both staff and consultant to many nonprofits. He has also served on the boards of Association of Fundraising Professionals, Hawaii Meals on Wheels, Golden Gate University Alumni Association as well leadership positions in Rotary International, at the club and district level. He was recognized as an Outstanding Fund Raising Professional by the AFP-Aloha Chapter and AFP-Silicon Valley Chapter.

Joy McKee

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Boston University - Assistant Dean for Development and Alumni Relations College and Graduate Sc
Experienced fundraising, marketing and communications professional with a demonstrated twenty years working alongside non-profits to build collaborative relationships with individuals, community, corporations and foundations. I’m committed to institutional messaging that connects philanthropists and constituents with their areas of interest so they can make a world of difference. In line with my commitment to the industry, in September 2014 I acquired the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) credential, the most rigorous certification process available to development professionals, demonstrating my expertise in organizational leadership, management and ethics. Specialties: Development Operations, Strategic Planning, Communications, Annual Campaigns, Event Management, Solicitation, Marketing, Volunteer Management.

Mary Doorely Simboski, ACFRE, MS

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Changing Our World - Senior Managing Director
Mary Doorley Simboski is a senior nonprofit management executive with more than 30 years of experience working in education, healthcare, the arts, and religious and human service organizations. An adjunct instructor at Boston University and Baypath University, she teaches courses in fundraising management. Mary has earned the designation of Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive. She is a current member of AFP's Ethics Committee. She has a Bachelor's degree from the Catholic University of America and a Master of Science Degree in Management from Regis

Benjamin Mohler, ACFRE, CFRE, MA

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GivingThree - Chief Executive and Principal Consultant
Ben Mohler, M.A., CFRE, ACFRE has presented frequently over the past twenty years for local AFP chapters and state, national, and international conferences. He teaches as a subject matter expert for the Texas A&M University Bush School of Government and Public Service and is an in-demand instructor, having taught at Eastern Kentucky University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and St. Mary’s University of Minnesota.


AFP’s New Code of Ethic- What is it … what can it do for me?

Why do professionals and professions need an Ethical Code? AFP’s Code of Ethics is a living document and baseline that provides structure, guidance and support – for all of these.   Participants will review and explore the new code and all the supporting resources available for individuals and chapters to use to develop a deeper understanding of applying and implementing the code in personal and organizational practice.   Using interactive cases and group activities, Participants will apply the code – and discuss why there are very few “cut and dried” solutions.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Andrea McManus, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer)

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The Development Group - President & CEO
Nonprofit specialist with a passion for building the capacity of nonprofit organizations and to grow robust, innovative philanthropic relationships with supporters. Committed to the development of the fundraising profession and mentoring younger professionals.

Roberta Healey, ACFRE, MBA, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), FAFP

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Aurora Philanthropic Consulting - Founding Member
Robbe Healey brings more than four decades of diverse experience, insight, and success to philanthropic fundraising consulting, strategic planning, board governance and non-profit organization management. Highly regarded and sought after, she has worked with more than150 organizations. A member and past chair of the AFP Ethics Committee, she is currently CO-Chair of The AFP Code of Ethic Review Task Force. Committed to community service, she is a Rotarian, and volunteer with three community organizations.

Audrey Kintzi, ACFRE, MA, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), FAFP

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Saint Mary's University of Minnesota - Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and Executive Director of the M. A. in Philanthropy and Development Program
Audrey Kintzi is the Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and the Executive Director of the M. A. in Philanthropy and Development Program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Kintzi has been working in the development field for 40 years. In 2023, AFP Global named her an AFP Global Distinguished Fellow. Kintzi currently serves as a member of the AFP Research Council, the AFP ICON Education Advisory Committee and the AFP ACFRE Credentialing Board. Kintzi is a certified AFP Master Trainer and holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology (with Distinction) from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy.


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

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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.


Ethics and Inclusion in Action: Conversations from the Front Lines to Build Better Fundraising

Join us for a conversation from the front-lines of fundraising with four senior fundraising executives. We will explore trust, honesty and doing the right thing. Panelists will discuss challenging situtaitons in fundraising and share success stories where Ethics and IDEA opened the door to major gifts.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Dwayne Ashley, MBA

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Bridge Philanthropic Consulting LLC. - Chief Executive Officer
Dwayne Ashley is renowned for his bold, strategic thinking and wise counsel in philanthropy. Over the course of his 30-year career, he has raised more than $1 Billion. A fearless and authentic solicitor, he is committed to DEI and helping organizations of color maximize their fundraising success. He advises non-profits, philanthropists, and influencers globally on the sector. A powerhouse of energy, enthusiasm and a passion for fundraising, Dwayne has managed capital and annual campaigns and spearheaded development for such notable organizations as Jazz at Lincoln Center, National Juneteenth Museum, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and the National Negro College Fund.

Dr. Roderick Smothers, PhD, Certification from the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University

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Bridge Philanthropic Consulting LLC - Executive Consultant
Dr. Roderick L. Smothers is a 29-year professional whose focus has been providing transformative leadership, strategic advocacy, and building institutional capacity at our nation's Historically Black College and Universities. An accomplished fundraiser and relationship builder, Dr. Smothers has worked extensively with individuals, non-profit organizations, corporations, foundations, and public agencies and holds a fundraising record that exceeds $400 Million. In addition to his Ph.D. from Louisiana State University, he holds a certification in fundraising management from the Lilly Family School of Philathropy at Indiana University.

Dr. Tammy Smithers, PhD

Photo of Dr. Tammy Smithers
Bridge Philanthropic Consulting LLC - Vice President of Campaigns
Dr. Tammy Smithers has worked professionally for over 20 years with high-net-worth donors and clients as a wealth advisor for three fortune 100 corporations. She has served as the lead fundraising counsel for arts, education, and cultural organizations, leading and guiding campaigns raising more than $140 Million. She has executed successful fundraising campaigns for The Houston Grand Opera, National Juneteenth Museum, National Black MBA Association, and the William H. Gray Memorial Foundation. Dr. Smithers is an adjunct professor for the Diversity/Equity and Leadership course at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas.

Sylvia White, MA

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Bridge Philanthropic Consulting LLC - Bridge Philanthropic Consulting LLC.
A fundraising executive with a provide track record in overseeing major fundriaing annual and capital campaigns, Sylvia is a highly sought after advisor and mentor in the non-profit and fundraising sector. Throughout her 35 year career, Sylvia has led or served on teams that have raised in excess of $300 Million. With substantial experience in principal and major gifts, board development, and fundraising management, Sylvia has significant expertise in strategic planning, fundraising and development, as well as, individual, corporation, public agency, and foundation funder and donor relationship management and stewardship.


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

John Scola

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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

Photo of Jaye Lopez Van Soest
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

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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.

Joyce Mitchell-Antoine

Photo of Joyce Mitchell-Antoine
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

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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.


Navigating Power Dynamics in Fundraising

Most fundraisers have experienced an uncomfortable, offensive, or harmful donor interaction. This cannot just be seen as “part of the job” rather something that is addressed to create a culture and systems that build brave spaces and policies and procedures that result in greater fundraiser safety and professional satisfaction.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Robert Osborne

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The Osborne Group, Inc. - Principal
Robert is Principal of The Osborne Group, with 30 years of nonprofit experience. He speaks regularly nationally and internationally. Robert serves on the boards of the United Hospital Fund and US Squash, both in New York. He also serves on the International Advisory Board of the Czech Fundraising Center in Czech Republic, the International Advisory Board of the Impact Hub Belgrade in Serbia, and the Advisory Board of the Impact Hub Metropolitan in New York. He is a studio partner and co-founder of Studio X Ventures, a venture studio for social impact startups in the Western Balkans.

Laurel McCombs

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The Osborne Group - Senior Advisor
Laurel McCombs brings more than 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector and a passion for the role philanthropy can play in changing the world to her work as a consultant and trainer with The Osborne Group. Laurel is a well-known speaker presenting well-received workshops for national organizations, universities, as well as AFP ICON, CASE-NAIS, Nonprofit Association of Oregon, and AFP Congress. She works closely with clients on a variety of topics, including donor retention, development operations, planning, donor management, board development and more.


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

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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.


The Session No One Wants to Attend But Likely Will Have the Most Impact

If you want to ensure no one comes to your session, make it about one of two topics: data or ethics. This one covers both! Together we're going to gamify data collection, have fun doing it, and gain deeper understanding of how to gather data effectively, efficiently, and ethically.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Meena Das, Master of Science

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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.

Clay Buck, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), MFA

Photo of Clay Buck
TCB Fundraising - Founder and Principal
T. Clay Buck, CFRE is the founder and principal of TCB Fundraising, a fundraising and communications consultancy focusing on strategic individual giving programs that strengthen results and deepen engagement. A thirty-year fundraising veteran, Clay has worked in leadership roles at nonprofits across the country. He has held the CFRE designation for 10 years, is a certified coach, and completed the certificate in Philanthropic Psychology. He is the co-creator of The Fundraiser's Planner and teaches strategic planning and fundraising at UNLV. Clay served as the Chair of the IDEA Committee for AFP Global from 2023 - 2024.


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

Jennifer Johnstone

Photo of Jennifer Johnstone
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.


Ethics Matter: More Than Your Momma Taught You

"Do the right thing at the right time". But the ethics pool can become murky in these underfunded and understaffed times. These 6 principles, based on Harvard Business School ethics research, will help you stay on the highest ethics course regardless of the challenges.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Alexis India Alm, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), CAP, CEC

Photo of Alexis India Alm
Alexis Alm Advisors, LLC - CEO and Executive Coach
Ms. Alm is a highly regarded nonprofit professional with over 35 years of executive leadership experience. She has established successful, multi-million dollar major gift campaigns and is known as a planned giving guru for local, community-based organizations and an AFP Certified Master Trainer. Ms.Alm is highly credentialed and has earned graduate certificates in Leadership and Management from Harvard Business School, a Master's in Nonprofit Management, a Certified Executive Coach (CEC), a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), Certified Nonprofit Consultant (CNC), CFRE and is a Doctoral Candidate in Organizational Leadership at American College of Education.


Gain More Public Funding: Lessons in Building Partnerships with Local Governmental Officials

What’s the best way to secure public funding to underwrite your organization’s mission? There’s so very much money out there in the public sector from city, county, state and federal sources. Learn how to approach your local governmental officials, get to know them, and advocate appropriately for your organization.

Education Track(s): Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Gail Perry, CFRE, MBA

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

Cassie Rice

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Gail Perry Group - Vice President for Client Success
With two decades of experience in the political sector, Cassie understands politics and advocacy at all levels of government. A 10-year veteran of Capitol Hill, Cassie knows how politicians think and how to work within any government system to make positive gains for an organization. Cassie helps clients understand how to work their way through their web of influence to maximize their partnerships with local public entities.


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

Becky Watts

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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

Photo of Julie Weagraff
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.

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