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.
Relationship Building
5 Ways to Develop Billion-Dollar Donor Relationships
Ready to learn the best ways to cultivate donor relationships and attract your largest-ever gift? In this session, you’ll learn five strategies to build lasting trust and focus on the impact of philanthropy through the donor's lens. This presentation will be based on the case study of a $1B gift.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Karen Cochran, CFRE, MA
Philanthropy Innovators - Founder & Chief Philanthropic Innovator
Karen is a seasoned philanthropic strategist who has led and mentored teams that raised more than $7.5 billion. She brings experience as a nonprofit volunteer and senior leader at several well-known research universities where she built fundraising and advancement teams that significantly increased both results and impact. A strong advocate for professional development, mentorship, and workplace well-being, Karen is a certified Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coach. Known for her organizational acumen, forward-thinking vision, and commitment to inclusion, Karen helps build cultures that encourage everyone to be their best in service to their mission.Changing the Narrative: Moving Toward Autonomy, Accountability, and Abundance in Fundraising
What stories do our relationships with funders and donors tell? This session will explore the potential for fundraising practices to create narratives of autonomy, accountability, and abundance that can help to reshape philanthropy in service of racial equity and economic justice goals.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Erika Pettersen, MA
Compelling & Inclusive Storytelling – How to Center Underrepresented Voices
Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your storytelling prowess and engage diverse perspectives in your organization's fundraising efforts. Participants will learn powerful tactics and principles, including asset framing and community-centric fundraising, to amplify marginalized narratives authentically. Join the discussion about operationalizing these strategies for genuine partnership and impactful storytelling.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Park City Community Foundation - VP of Development
Alexis is the VP of Development at Park City Community Foundation and is a seasoned fundraising professional. She’s played pivotal roles leading and collaborating with several Development teams in reaching and exceeding multi-million-dollar fundraising goals year after year. Previously, she held Development roles at Volunteers of America, Utah and other human services agencies in Salt Lake City. Alexis started her career in digital marketing and brand management but transitioned into nonprofit fundraising to apply her skillset to community impact. She serves on the Boards of Directors of the AFP Utah Chapter and an affordable housing nonprofit serving several Utah counties.
Park City Community Foundation - VP of Equity & Impact
Diego migrated from Peru in 2005 to attend the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah. His journey in the philanthropy sector began in 2009 when he managed education programs and directly worked with immigrant families and their children. With a focus on collaboration and community organizing, he works towards improving equitable outcomes for communities of color as well as other marginalized groups. Diego believes that through empowering folks and creating more inclusive environments, philanthropy can do more than just address the symptoms, but rather, examine the root causes and systems in place creating these disparate outcomes.Embracing the Collaborative Giving Revolution
Today’s major donor is a strategic, social investor moved by impact and connection. To succeed, you must focus on “partnership” over making a “pitch.” In this presentation, hear from a researcher, major donor and practitioner about how we can transform to meet today's collaboration-minded givers and create a better experience.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Brian Gawor, CFRE
JGA - Consultant
Brian Gawor, CFRE is a 25-year higher education and non-profit veteran, and dedicated “giving geek.” A former annual giving and major gifts professional turned consultant, he has helped higher education institutions of all sizes transform their engagement with data-driven strategies that maximize response from an inclusive, purposeful donor base. Brian has presented at over 100 professional conferences, created the top-rated Fundraising Voices podcast to showcase innovation in donor engagement, and regularly shares insights on LinkedIn.
Lisa Greer - founder
Lisa Greer is a philanthropic advocate dedicated to reshaping charitable giving. Following her transformative journey into the 1%, Lisa and her husband were disillusioned by the impersonal norms of philanthropy. Determined to instigate change, Lisa channels her expertise as a businesswoman to empower nonprofits with sustainable fundraising strategies. Through her bestselling book "Philanthropy Revolution" and upcoming release "The Fundraiser’s Handbook," she guides organizations worldwide toward authentic donor relationships and long-term success. With a focus on revitalizing the sector, Lisa's mission is to foster a culture of transparency, engagement, and lasting impact in philanthropy.
Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles - CEO
As CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles, Theresa Edy Kiene leads the nation's second largest Girl Scout council, with over 54,0000 members. Theresa provides strategic direction and vision for developing and achieving the organization's mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. This mission has been a focal point of her career. Before coming to Girl Scouts, she served as VP of Strategic Planning and Change Management at Fuller Theological Seminary, co-founded and led two innovative consumer food brands, and had a successful career as a television executive.Empowering Small Communities: Charting Paths to Bold Visions and Sustainable Funding
Together, we'll explore fundamental questions that small, rural, and volunteer-run organizations can ask themselves before launching new fundraising strategies, such as grant writing or a special campaign. Come for the practical tips that you can immediately apply and stay for the stories and activities that bring to life our recommendations.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Julie Bianchi, CFRE, MA
Cloudbreak Collective - Consultant & Campaign Practice Director
Julie believes the sweet spot between big-picture thinking and the details is where successful fundraising strategy is born. She has worked with 50+ organizations across the country, including work on campaigns from $1M to $300M. She is a founding-Board member for the Advancement Northwest Chapter of AFP and a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). She holds a Master of Nonprofit Leadership from Seattle University and Certificate in Fundraising Management from the University of Washington. Julie teaches as adjunct faculty at Seattle University and the University of Washington. She is a fifth-generation Whidbey Islander raising the sixth generation on a family farm.
Cloudbreak Collective - President & Grants Practice Director
Brittany is a fundraiser and consultant; she has supported 100+ diverse organizations in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, with a specialty in securing grant funding and integrating fundraising with other functions like finance and evaluation. Brittany’s real world experience is underscored by education in best practices; she holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Washington, and she has been a highly-rated presenter at events by the Puget Sound Grantwriters’ Association (PSGA), Nonprofit Association of Washington, 501 Commons, and more. Brittany is also a member of the Bainbridge Community Foundation Board of Trustees.Empowering Wealth Advisors as Allies in Charitable Giving
Discover the invaluable synergy between nonprofits and wealth advisors! Dive into our session to unlock the benefits of nurturing strong advisor relationships, seamlessly integrating charitable giving into financial plans. Explore how collaboration fosters trust, amplifies impact, and empowers both donors and communities.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Nicola Lawrence, CFRE, MA, CAP and Phild in process
Phoenix Children's - AVP, Philanthropic Advising
Nicola Lawrence is a highly regarded gift-planning specialist with over two decades of experience in the philanthropy field. She has a proven track record of turning around underperforming planned gift programs and creating tailored solutions. Nicola's transformative contributions have earned her several prestigious awards. Besides her professional work, she has volunteered as a foster parent and an advocate for the rights of foster and adoptive parents. Nicola also serves on the board of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners and the Arizona Charitable Gift Planners, working to advance the profession nationally.
Phoenix Children's - Senior Marketing Strategist
With 14+ years in international education and nonprofit sectors, Justin excels in cross-cultural communication and data-driven strategies. Specializing in planned giving, he crafts sophisticated marketing campaigns for diverse donor segments. Justin holds a B.S. in Political Science and Women’s Studies from Western Michigan University and an MBA from the International School of Management. His passions include travel, craft beer, and social enterprises.Eternal Gratitude: Mastering Planned Giving Donor Stewardship for Lifelong Connections
Including Planned Giving donors in your Legacy Society is an important part of donor stewardship. But it is just the beginning: Set it and Forget it just doesn’t cut it any more with donors. In this session we will show you ways to make your Planned Giving Stewardship more effective.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Sharp HealthCare Foundation - Senior Director of Legacy Giving
Linda Spuck serves as Senior Gift Planning Officer for Sharp HealthCare Foundation, overseeing planning and marketing as well as staff and board training. She partners with individual giving offers to secure current and deferred gifts. Linda also runs Linda Spuck Consulting, dedicated to helping nonprofits find the most effective ways to achieve their mission through strategic planning, fundraising counsel and legacy giving. Linda’s practice focuses on sharing best practices gleaned from observing hundreds of outstanding nonprofits, as well as personal experiences gained from over 20 years in the philanthropic sector. She currently serves as Board President for San Diego Opera.Timothy Logan, ACFRE, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), MNO, FCEP
Synergy Direct Marketing Solutions - Vice President, Mid-Level Solutions
Timothy D. Logan, FAHP, ACFRE, CFRE has over 40 years’ experience in fundraising and nonprofit management. Tim is Vice President, Mid-Level at Synergy Direct Marketing Solutions. Tim is a leader in developing innovative multichannel direct response programs for major, mid-level and planned giving donors. He has extensive experience using the phone to identify potential donors and deepen donor relationships. Tim holds a Masters of Nonprofit Management (MNO) from Case Western Reserve University and speaks and writes frequently on fundraising, nonprofit management, and building donor relationships.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.It’s Time to Pay Attention to Gen X and Millennials
Soon, $53 trillion will be passed from Baby Boomers to Gen X and Millennials. How can non-profits begin preparing today for these younger generations of donors? In this insightful panel, learn from Gen X and Millennial philanthropy leaders how they are setting up their fundraising programs for success.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Hopkins School - Chief Advancement Officer
As the first Chief Advancement Officer at Hopkins School in New Haven, Connecticut, Tom Diascro oversees an extensive alumni and parent engagement, annual and leadership giving, major and principal giving, and stewardship and donor relations program. Prior to joining Hopkins School, Tom served as Director of Alumni & Parent Relations at Wesleyan University in Connecticut (his alma mater), where he also previously served as a Major Gift Officer. Tom brings to his advancement role a more than 15-year career in Professional Services marketing and communications. Tom received his B.A. from Wesleyan University and his M.A. from George Washington University.
Beth Interactive Inc. - Principal + CEO
Beth Hatcher is the Principal and CEO of Beth Interactive, a digital philanthropy and communications agency in Chicago. With 18 years of experience in online fundraising and healthcare marketing, she specializes in crafting customized fundraising and communications strategies for healthcare foundations, higher ed institutions and non-profits. A passionate storyteller, data nerd and accomplished presenter, Beth loves to bring best practices to her non-profit clients nationwide—with the goals of engaging donors and increasing giving through intelligent strategies, thoughtful implementation and full-service support. She received the 40 Under 40 Award from the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy in 2022.Dzenan Berberovic, CFRE, MA
Avera Health - Chief Philanthropy Officer
Born and raised in war-torn Bosnia, Dzenan’s humble beginnings were a stepping stone that shaped him into the professional he is today. A resident of a refugee camp and Germany for six years, he and his mother immigrated to the United States when he was nine years old. Dzenan currently has the honor of serving Avera as Chief Philanthropy Officer, and he has served and led teams to raise more than $600 million. Dzenan and his wife, Kelsey, reside in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He is involved in the community, serving on several regional and international nonprofit boards and committees.
USA Triathlon Foundation - Chief Development Officer
Christi-Marie Butler is President and Chief Development Officer for USA Triathlon Foundation. She started her career in fundraising 20 years ago as a frontline fundraiser. “While I love philanthropic strategy and operations, talking to people who care about things that matter—and showing them how to help—is the core of how I can support the missions I serve,” Butler explained. From the Girl Scouts of Colorado to Colorado College; from Centura to Children’s Hospital to USA Triathlon, Christi-Marie and her teams have consistently secured the largest gifts for their department or organization. She trains actively for 10Ks, half marathons and triathlons.Meaningful Philanthropy in the 21st Century: The Role of Self in Giving by the Wealthy
In this session, Jen will explore the findings of a major new study of high-net-worth philanthropists. The study examines why these individuals give. But more critically “WHO they are” when they give and how their experience of giving makes them feel shaping the meaning they derive from their giving.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy - Co-Director
Jen Shang is the world’s first PhD in Philanthropy. She is also the world’s only philanthropic psychologist. Her research has been covered in the New York Times, BBC, The Guardian, the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Advancing Philanthropy and the Nonprofit Times. Jen has been published in numerous academic journals including, the Journal of Marketing Research, Marketing Science, the Economic Journal, Experimental Economics, Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, and Nonprofit Management and LeadershipRoots 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.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
The Art and Science of Neurophilanthropy - intersecting neuroscience, psychology and sociology with philanthropy
Eric will leverage his combined 25+ years of work, education, and hundreds of millions of dollars raised to help explore the emerging field of neurophilanthropy, the confluence of neuroscience, psychology, and sociology within fundraising. You will leave knowing how to leverage your donors' identities for better engagement and fundraising.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Eric Frans, CFRE
NeuroImprints - Vice President of Philanthropy
Eric is a highly creative and strategic senior executive with extensive local, national, and international non-profit experience. For over two decades, he has had a consistent track record of training best-in-class teams and receiving 6, 7, and 8-figure gifts based on his recognized expertise in the field of neurophilanthropy. As Vice-President of Philanthropy at Women's College Hospital, Eric oversees all relationship fundraising, as well as gift planning and foundations. Eric is also the leader of NeuroImprints - a leading consulting agency focused on high net-worth relationship fundraising.Unlocking Donor Generosity: Crafting Your Annual Stewardship Plan
Receiving a gift is just the beginning! Learn proven strategies to cultivate lasting donor relationships, increase retention, and boost support for your organization’s mission. Gain practical insights, participate in our interactive discussions, and leave with a template to create your own annual stewardship plan. Elevate your fundraising efforts today!
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Sara Leonard, CFRE, MBA
Sara Leonard Group - CEO
A 30-year fundraising veteran, Sara founded the Sara Leonard Group to provide consulting, coaching and training to fundraisers, CEO’s and nonprofit board members. She is a solutions-oriented advancement professional with experience in fundraising and volunteer management for healthcare, educational and cultural organizations. She is a CFRE, has been named as an AFP Master Trainer and completed the BoardSource Certificate of Nonprofit Board Education. She is a Past President of the AFP Tampa Bay Chapter. She shares her expertise as an instructor for the Nonprofit Leadership Center of Tampa BayDebbie Sokolov, CFRE, MNA
The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art - Deputy Director for Development & Communications
For 30 years, Debbie Drucker Sokolov's donor centered and team building approach has helped small and large nonprofits raise million of dollars. She joined The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in January 2020 as the first development professional and now leads a team of five as the Deputy Director for Development & Communications. Professional accomplishments include a successful $4.5 million capital campaign, several transformational gifts, and securing over $30 million in endowments. One of Debbie's donors was on the 2022 Chronicle of Philanthropy's Top 50 Philanthropists and featured in a front-page article in Tampa Bay Times.Using Storylistening and Storyweaving to Discover Donor Values and Raise More Gifts
Transform your fundraising! In this session, learn to unlock the power of connection-based fundraising through Storylistening and Storyweaving. Deepen donor relationships as you uncover their personal stories, values, and identities. Then, through conversation, learn to weave them together with mission impact for irresistible asks and successfully secured major gifts.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Beth Ann Locke, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer)
The Fundraiser Coach - Chief Spark
Beth Ann Locke brings over 30 years of accomplished fundraising experience in the U.S. and Canada to her work as “The Fundraiser Coach”. Rooted in Seattle and now based in Vancouver, BC, Beth Ann is highly regarded for coaching, training, and guiding fundraisers and nonprofit leaders to secure major gifts and amplify their impact. Her connection-based approach empowers fundraisers to cultivate donors for significant major and principal gifts. With a reputation for insightful donor strategies and actionable tactics, Beth Ann equips individuals and teams with the tools to become catalysts for changeWhat You Don’t Know Can Sink You – The Truth about Black Philanthropy
Lack of cultural fluency is a significant barrier to the diversification of fundraising efforts and inclusionary practices in the nonprofit sector. This session aims to remove the blind spots and educate nonprofit leaders and fundraisers about the power Black fundraisers, donors, and communities wield through philanthropy.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium - Network Engagement Manager
Joy is a creative inquisitive passionate thought leader who intentionally connects dots between communities, brands, and people. She is the founder of The Circle of Joy, a giving circle supporting women and children in Atlanta. They have granted more than $200,000 to nonprofits serving these populations. In 2022, Joy earned her CAP, Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy and was invited to join Leadership Dekalb. She was recently invited to the 21/64 cohort for Certified Advisors of Color program. Joy is also part of the Prismatic Accelerator by Daylight Advisors. Joy lives in Atlanta, GA.
Columns Fundraising - Senior Consultant
Carla Lavender is a seasoned senior consultant at Columns Fundraising in Atlanta, GA, with a passion for empowering community-based organizations on the brink of expansion. Boasting over two decades of dedicated fundraising experience, Carla specializes in orchestrating major gift campaigns within the nonprofit sector and higher education realm. She is an active member of the National Gift Planning Association, AADO and is the treasurer on the board of F3. Beyond her professional pursuits, Carla is married and lives in Smyrna, Georgia. She enjoys exploring new destinations and cherishing quality time with loved ones.Christal Cherry, MA
Fabulous Female Fundraisers - Chair, Board of Directors
Meet Christal M. Cherry, the founder and Board Chair of Fabulous Female Fundraisers Inc, (F3), a nonprofit with a mission to connect, support, engage, and empower Women of Color in fundraising to foster personal and professional growth. Christal is a tireless advocate for Black women and champions her passion through F3. She is delighted to be joined by four F3 members for this session. By day, Christal is the Principal & CEO of the Board Pro, a firm that supports nonprofits to build better boards. Christal lives in Atlanta with her son Mac and dog, Charlie.Ninjia Miles, CFRE, CFRM
Indiana University Foundation - Director of Development, Black Philanthropy
Ninjia Miles, CFRE, is the Director of Development, Black Philanthropy at the Indiana University Foundation. She is a millennial fundraiser with over ten years of fundraising experience with university and community-based organizations. She takes pride in developing fundraising strategies centered on cultural relevance, supporting Black-led/Black-serving organizations, engaging Black donors, and engaging millennial donors. Ninjia has a Certificate in Fundraising Management from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and an MPA in nonprofit management from the IU O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE).Muthoni Kariuki, CFRE, MPNL
The Center for Addiction and Mental Health - Senior Philanthropy Officer
Muthoni has over 15 years of Fundraising experience. Muthoni works at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). Muthoni is a Certified FundRaising Executive (CFRE) holds an Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) degree from the University of Toronto and a Master’s degree in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership (MPNL) from Carleton University. Muthoni is also a co-author of the award-winning, Collecting Courage. When Muthoni isn’t fundraising, she spends her most important, valued time with her family here in Toronto and travelling on the African continent.Who are “Those People?”: Trauma-Informed Storytelling for Brighter Futures
What happens when we share stories of people like they’re people? What if we stop saying words like “working poor” and focus on words that emphasize empowerment, strength, inclusivity, and resilience? You’ll learn about the principles of trauma-informed care, hope, and how you can share supportive, strengths-based stories to fundraise.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Sunbeam Family Services - Chief Development and Marketing Officer
Angie Doss has nearly 20 years of marketing experience and 16 years in fundraising. She is AFP Oklahoma’s 2024 OKC Outstanding Professional and believes in putting the FUN in fundraising, emphasizing that philanthropy is for everyone. Angie has presented locally and nationally on best practices in fundraising and marketing, including AFP Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, and Feeding America. A member of Leadership OKC, she has been named to the Journal Record and Oklahoma Gazette’s 40 Under 40 lists. Angie serves on the United Way Emerging Leaders Board and is a LOYAL Class 8 graduate.Nonprofit Enters the Chat: Cultivating Relationships with Corporate Giving Officers for Win-Win Outcomes
Corporate giving officers are inundated by nonprofits asking for money, and nonprofit leaders are often overwhelmed with what it takes to cultivate successful relationships with them. This session features candid dialogue between a corporate giving officer and a nonprofit leader about approaching the nuances of this dynamic for win-win outcomes.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Katie Cramer, MA
Big Lots - Manager, Philanthropy & Events
In her role at Big Lots, a national retailer with 1,400 stores and more than 30,000 associates, Katie leads the organization’s charitable giving and employee engagement efforts. She oversees the Big Lots Foundation’s grantmaking, distributing $5 million annually to 250 nonprofits around the country, and manages the company’s point-of-sale campaign program, engaging customers to raise millions of dollars for Big Lots’ nonprofit partners. Katie earned her Masters from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
Michelle Cramer, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer)
Cramer & Associates - President & CEO
Michelle Cramer, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer is President & CEO of Cramer & Associates, a woman-owned, Hispanic-owned fundraising consulting firm. Founded in 1987, the firm specializes in feasibility studies, campaigns, and serves nonprofits of every size and sector. In 2015, Michelle was awarded the “Outstanding Professional Fundraiser of the Year” award by AFP Central Ohio. She was also a contributing author to “The Nonprofit Consulting Playbook: Winning Strategies from 25 Leaders in the Field.”Beyond the Pride Flag: Understanding the Complex Dynamics of Philanthropy in the LGBT Community
How the LGBT community interacts with philanthropy is important for any fundraising professional to understand. You will learn about the changing face of LGBT philanthropy from a donor’s and organization's perspective. You will come away with a deeper understanding of how to appeal to this community beyond Pride Month.
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Strategic
Speakers
Charles Callihan, MA
Heart Strategy Impact - Founder & CEO
C.F. is the Founder and CEO of Heart Strategy Impact, a boutique fundraising consulting firm in Nashville Tennessee. He is a seasoned fundraising professional with over a decade of extensive expertise, leaving an innovative mark on the organizations he has served raising over $15,000,000 in annual fund and special project campaigns. He has previously served in roles at Blennerhasset Island Historical State Park, Lexington History Museum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indiana University Jacob’s School of Music, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc, Music Academy of the West, University of Louisville, Seven Counties Services, Inc., Centerstone, Park Center and the Andrew Jackson Foundation.Brian Williams, MFA
Dandelion Consulting - Founder and CEO
Brian Williams is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over two decades of expertise in fundraising and executive management. He was selected as one of 20 global leaders, in 2009, for United Way Worldwide's Global Resident Fellows Program. Brian's consultancy focuses on empowering arts and LGBTQ+ organizations with budgets under $5 million, leveraging his MFA from the University of Iowa to infuse creativity into creating sustainable growth initiatives and supporting organizations to achieve their goals. His commitment to fostering positive change and maximizing impact underscores his reputation as a trusted advisor and advocate within the nonprofit community.True Partnerships: How to Build Equitable Partnerships and How They Can Elevate Fundraising
Funders often see partnerships between organizations as a positive sign of a collaborative community, yet partnerships as a practice are still underexplored. Join us as we learn what true partnerships look like and discuss how to build partnerships to attract values-aligned funders!
Education Track(s): Relationship Building
Audience: Applied
Speakers
Movement Strategy Center - Development Assistant
Liyen’s work as an artist, community organizer, and development professional lies at the intersection of culture and social impact. In her first six months as a fundraiser, her work raised a historic $1.25 million dollar grant for a partnership between a museum and the historic Houston Freedmen’s Town. She has built broad-based coalitions centering BIPOC and historically marginalized communities’ interests. Along with Patrice Shumate, she is a co-founder and organizer for More Than Grant Writers, a community of learning and practice to help grant writers discover their positional power and collaborate on ways to further social justice.
Movement Strategy Center - Director of Institutional Giving
Marcus is a Community-Centered Fundraiser and organizer for the CCF movement. He is the Director of Institutional Giving at the Movement Strategy Center, which provides values-aligned infrastructure for BIPOC and women-led organizations working towards a Just Transition. In his role, he builds healthy, community-centered relationships with institutional funders to support MSC's core operations and its intermediary regranting and fiscal sponsorship services. Born and raised in Dallas, TX, and currently based in El Paso, TX, Marcus holds a BBA, Management from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.,Marcus is a Community-Centered Fundraiser and organizer for the CCF movement. He is the Director of Institutional Giving at the Movement Strategy Center, which provides values-aligned infrastructure for BIPOC and women-led organizations working towards a Just Transition. In his role, he builds healthy, community-centered relationships with institutional funders to support MSC's core operations and its intermediary regranting and fiscal sponsorship services. Born and raised in Dallas, TX, and currently based in El Paso, TX, Marcus holds a BBA, Management from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.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.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.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: Applied
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
