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.

Clear

Securing The Gift


Demystifying DAFs: Findings from the National Survey of DAF Donors

Do donor advised funds (DAFs) seem like a mystery to you? The National Survey of DAF Donors provides valuable insights to help you better understand DAFs and offers practical applications for professional fundraising. You will learn how to identify DAF donors, cultivate better relationships with them, and customize solicitations.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Rachel Sumsion

Photo of Rachel Sumsion
Brigham Young University - MPA Student
Rachel Sumsion is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration at Brigham Young University and has a background in sociology, nonprofit management, international development, and business. Rachel is particularly drawn to research that has practical applications and has studied various topics, including donor advised funds, social impacts, and food insecurity. Beyond academia, Rachel has worked as a philanthropic consultant. In her free time, you can find Rachel going for a run or spending time with family.

Dan Heist, MA, PhD

Photo of Dan Heist
Brigham Young University - Assistant Professor
Dr. H. Daniel Heist is an Assistant Professor of Nonprofit Management and Social Impact at Brigham Young University. He researches philanthropy, charitable giving, and volunteering. Dr. Heist is a leading expert on donor-advised fund research and co-founder of the Donor-Advised Fund Research Collaborative. Before receiving a Ph.D. in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Heist spent nine years as a professional fundraiser. Dr. Heist earned a Master’s degree in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI and was a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). His professional experience informs his research on donor behavior.


Do you have to ASK? YES! ...and No!

"How do I ask for major gifts?" That depends on your relationship! Join ASK Experts Pam and Marcy to journey from strangers to cherished benefactors. Learn to ask to grow relationships from FIRST appointment to comfortable conversations leading to major investments. Marcy will sing. Pam will shine!

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Pamela Perkins Dwyer, MA, CFRM

Photo of Pamela Perkins Dwyer
Los Angelos Master Chorale - Major Gifts Officer
Pamela is an accomplished fundraising executive with extensive experience spanning major gifts, capital campaigns, board engagement, strategic planning, and financial management. Her expertise in donor stewardship has been pivotal in securing significant contributions throughout her career. Pamela currently serves as Director of Major Gifts for the Los Angeles Master Chorale, a distinguished resident company of The Music Center in Los Angeles. In addition, she holds a position on the AFP US Foundation Board of Directors. Pamela earned a Master of Science from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts from Howard University

Marcy Heim, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), CSP - Certified Speaking Professional, PLCC Professional Life Coaching Certification UW Madison

Photo of Marcy Heim
The Artful Asker - CEO
A 30-year major-giving expert, international consultant, and author, Marcy Heim, CEO, The Artful Asker, has inspired Leadership, Boards, and Fundraisers with mindset/method tools for multi-million-dollar, sustained generosity! Her 3-sentence Ask gets a delighted “yes.” After 2 decades raising major gifts at UW-Madison and through a $1.8B campaign, she now consults all sizes/sector shops. AFP Master Trainer, CASE Crystal Apple recipient, Marcy’s high-energy sessions renew your zest for fundraising and life.


How to Craft Compelling Legacy Giving Key Messages, Taglines and Wordmarks

In this dynamic session, participants will delve into the art of crafting compelling legacy messages, taglines and wordmarks that resonate with donors and motivate charitable legacy gifts. Come with your questions about legacy giving messaging, and leave with actionable next steps to apply to your organization.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Introductory/Foundational

Speakers

Aimée Lindenberger, CFRE

Photo of Aimée Lindenberger
Refocus Fundraising - Chief Engagement Officer
Aimée Lindenberger, Founder of Refocus Fundraising and author of "How to Talk About Legacy Giving," brings over two decades of marketing and communications expertise to every organization she works with. Holding a certificate in Philanthropic Psychology and degree in Graphic Communications Management, she shares innovative strategies with nonprofits. Aimée has a commitment to advancing philanthropy, having played leadership roles in the Greater Vancouver Chapters of AFP and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners.


Leveraging the Art of StorySelling to Grow Your Major or Planned Giving Program

Boost your fundraising revenue through becoming a Better StorySeller! Gain vital skills in solicitation and stewardship, refine your elevator speeches, articulate funding priorities effectively, and vividly showcase philanthropic impact. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your fundraising prowess and secure major and planned gifts with confidence.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Carlo Laurore, CFRE, CFP® CHFC® CLU® RICP® AEP® CAP®

Photo of Carlo Laurore
Boy Scouts of America - Senior Vice President, Development
Carlo Laurore is the Senior Vice President of Development for the Boy Scouts of America & the Executive Director of the National Boy Scouts of America Foundation. Carlo has worked for the BSA for over a decade serving in a variety of roles. Currently, he leads the national fundraising efforts for the BSA Office of Development, including principal and major gifts. Carlo also provides leadership for alumni, restricted funds and endowment management, and fundraising educational initiatives. Carlo is a current Executive Committee member of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners Board and the 2024 CGP National Conference Chair.


Lifelong Donors: How to Find and Keep Monthly Sustainers

The average monthly donor gives 5 to 20 times more than single gift donors. Harvey McKinnon has written three monthly giving books, and he’ll show you how to find and keep lucrative monthly sustainers. You’ll learn techniques that promote donor loyalty, raise more money, and increase your organization's financial stability.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Introductory/Foundational

Speakers

Harvey McKinnon, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer)

Photo of Harvey McKinnon
Harvey McKinnon Associates - President
Harvey McKinnon has been a fundraiser for over 40 years and is recognized as one of North America’s leading fundraising experts. He has delivered fundraising keynotes at conferences around the world and is a frequent master-class trainer. He has authored five books – most recently a third book on monthly giving: How to Create Lifelong Donors. His best-selling book, The 11 Questions Every Donor Asks, is a major gift training manual for fundraising departments throughout the US & Canada. His company Harvey McKinnon Associates has offices in Toronto and Vancouver and works with dozens of non-profits in Canada and the USA.


Put on Your CAP© & Get in Your CAR©: Steering Portfolios in the Right Direction

Do you have a plan to identify who should be in your portfolio and why? Have you determined a pathway for meaningful relational engagement that is both structured and flexible? Join this session to get the tools you need to be more effective in raising much-needed funds for your organization.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Julie Upham, CFRE

Photo of Julie Upham
Conservation International - Vice President, Individual Giving
Julie Naranjo Upham CFRE, serves as the Vice President of Individual Giving for Conservation International. She oversees the efforts of annual, major, and planned giving teams, as well as CI’s Sojourns travel program. Her team raises more than $70M annually and works to enhance the donor’s experience while ensuring a healthy and sustainable donor pipeline across all giving levels. In her spare time, Julie has completed six half-Ironmans, eight marathons, countless half-marathons, and Olympic-distance triathlons. She currently resides in Alexandria, VA with her husband and three kids, and loves spending time in nature.

Martha H Schumacher, ACFRE, CFRE, MInstF

Photo of Martha H Schumacher
Hazen and HILT - Hazen and HILT
Martha H. Schumacher, CFRE, ACFRE, MInstF is an avid active listener, philanthropy ambassador, educator, coach, mentor, author, and champion. She is President of Hazen Consulting and the Hazen Institute for Leadership Training (HILT), creating global strategies to elevate social impact and philanthropy. Martha is an AFP Global Past Chair, founding member of the International Women in Fundraising (IWF), and a Global Advisor to the IWF Purple Mindshift Program. She also serves on the International Rhino Foundation Advisory Board and Development Committee. Martha lives with her husband Casey and their sweet yet energetic rescue dogs Gage and Josie.


Supercharge Your Bequest Program With Smart Supporter Surveys

Understanding your supporters is important. Influencing them is vital. This practical session will equip you to run a powerful, influential survey to identify and convert bequest prospects. Drawing on world leading research, behavioural economics experiments, philanthropic psychology and dialogue marketing you will master global best practice supporter surveys.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Martin Paul

Photo of Martin Paul
More Strategic - Director
Martin is one of Australia's most respected fundraisers and acclaimed speakers. In 2020 he was recognised for his lifetime contribution and leadership by the Fundraising Institute Australia. Before founding Australia's leading consultancy, More Strategic, Martin led large teams to success across the UK and Australia with Cancer Council, Heart Foundation, National Trust and WWF. Martin has since worked with most of Australia's top 100 not-for-profits to develop insight driven, evidence based strategies for growth. His sessions are informative, inspiring and thought-provoking.


The Case for Support Playbook: Engaging Supporters Through Salient and Sticky Stories

The old-fashioned, one-size-fits-all Case for Support format is dead. It’s too inflexible and too organization or program focused. Instead, you need to find an approach that explains complex ideas simply but powerfully. It’s built on modular elements that can flex to the range of prospects and channels.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Alan Hutson, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator (formerly AFP Master Trainer), MPA

Photo of Alan Hutson
The Monument Group - Managing Partner
Alan Hutson is the managing partner of The Monument Group, a leading US-based consultancy that for 28 years has helped nonprofit organizations tap their fundraising potential. He is also a senior partner consultant at =mc consulting and serves on the Decision Science team. Whether he is revamping annual fund structures or managing capital campaigns, Alan’s recommendations include staff and volunteers involved, in a sustained way, in the fundraising process. Alan’s work has resulted in nonprofit organizations raising over $250M (US-based clients).


The Future of Sustainable Giving in a Subscription Economy

Sustainable giving is accessible to more nonprofits than ever before. The Subscription Economy has transformed the landscape of sustainer programs, leading to a new kind of regular giving. Dave Raley, author of Subscription Philanthropy: A New Wave of Giving, will unpack how recent trends have transformed monthly giving.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Dave Raley

Photo of Dave Raley
Imago Consulting - Founder
Consultant, speaker, writer, and founder of Imago Consulting, Dave works with leaders who recognize the importance of innovation as a path to profitable growth. Over the past 20 years, Dave has worked with, spoken to, and inspired hundreds of nonprofits to grow, develop strategies, and launch new products and initiatives. He’s the author of The Wave Report, a weekly report on waves to watch – trends and lessons leaders can learn from and apply to their leadership. He’s also the co-founder and host of the Purpose & Profit Podcast – a show about the intersection of nonprofit causes and for-profit businesses.


The Truth about Foundation Fundraising

You may be doing your foundation fundraising all wrong. Come learn how foundations really make decisions, how you can best use that to your advantage, and how to build a strong, scalable, foundation program that leads to big grants.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Robert Osborne

Photo of Robert Osborne
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

Photo of Laurel McCombs
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.


Unlocking Corporate Philanthropy: Proven Strategies for Securing Gifts and Mobilizing Volunteers

Join an exhilarating session packed with actionable insights and innovative approaches for small to mid-sized nonprofits seeking to optimize their corporate philanthropy and volunteer engagement efforts. Get practical strategies, tailored guidance, and innovative techniques that can make a real difference in your fundraising and community engagement initiatives.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Pinky Vincent, CFRE, MA

Photo of Pinky Vincent
Clarezza Insights LLC - Principal
Pinky Vincent Shubert, CFRE is a highly-skilled executive with experience in leading nonprofit programs, coaching emerging and seasoned professionals, directing fundraising and marketing teams, and measuring impact. Pinky serves on the global board of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and chairs its investment subcommittee. She is also on the board of AFP New York City chapter and mentors midcareer fundraisers. Pinky regularly speaks, coaches, and writes on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), marketing, fundraising, and leadership. You can reach her at https://www.linkedin.com/in/pinkyvincent


Using AI & Technology to Drive Small Shop Fundraising Growth

Have you put enough science into the art and science of fundraising? Join for an interactive discussion with two seasoned fundraising professionals who used AI technology and other analytics to overhaul an organization's fundraising operation, driving significant double-digit growth.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Tiffany Legington Graham, MS

Photo of Tiffany Legington Graham
National Civil Rights Museum - Chief Marketing & Development Officer
Tiffany Legington Graham is the Chief Marketing & Development Officer for the National Civil Rights Museum, overseeing brand strategy and fundraising. She has over 20 years of for-profit and non-profit experience. Previous leadership roles include: Vice-President of Gift Planning at ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Director of Leadership Annual Giving at Tulane University, Chief Development Officer roles at Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts+Culture and Levine Museum of the New South. She is an alumna of the University of Southern California and Georgia Tech, and serves on several advisory boards.

Andrew Mathewes

Photo of Andrew Mathewes
National Civil Rights Museum - Director of Development Technology & Analytics
Andrew Mathewes is the Director of Development Technology & Analytics at the National Civil Rights Museum. He is an experienced analyst whose career has spanned information technology, analytics, database design and front-line business development. He currently owns strategic responsibility for technology and analytics for the Museum, including prospect research and direct marketing. He previously managed analytics and support for ALSAC/St. Jude's $1 billion capital campaign, as well as major application launches, decommissions and migrations.


How to Work with DAF Donors: Strategies from the Field

Struggling to maximize donor advised funds (DAFs)? We’ve got you covered! DAFs’ popularity is skyrocketing, making it increasingly important that fundraisers have high DAF IQs. You can seize DAF opportunities and navigate their challenges with new information and strategies presented by this AFP Levis Research Fund award-winning team!

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Genevieve Shaker, PhD

Photo of Genevieve Shaker
Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy - Donald A. Campbell Chair in Fundraising Leadership
Dr. Genevieve Shaker is the Donald A. Campbell Chair in Fundraising Leadership at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and a faculty member of The Fund Raising School. Two decades of fundraising experience inform her approach as a teacher, researcher, writer, and community member. She works to build resources for the fundraising profession and to help individuals and organizations achieve their philanthropic goals. Dr. Shaker is a member of the AFP Research Council and a recipient of the AFP Skystone Partners Prize for Research.

Dan Heist, MA, PhD

Photo of Dan Heist
Brigham Young University - Assistant Professor
Dr. H. Daniel Heist is an Assistant Professor of Nonprofit Management and Social Impact at Brigham Young University. He researches philanthropy, charitable giving, and volunteering. Dr. Heist is a leading expert on donor-advised fund research and co-founder of the Donor-Advised Fund Research Collaborative. Before receiving a Ph.D. in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Heist spent nine years as a professional fundraiser. Dr. Heist earned a Master’s degree in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI and was a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). His professional experience informs his research on donor behavior.


Brandraising: Leveraging Your Brand to Raise Funds In a Down Economy

Leverage your brand to boost fundraising efforts in a down economy. Strong branding elevates donor engagement, lifts fundraising success, and fortifies stakeholder connections, all without stretching your budget. This session equips you with five tools to immediately uplift your brand strategy. Plus, we'll review our exclusive fundraising survey results.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Lyn Wineman

Photo of Lyn Wineman
KidGlov - President and Chief Strategist
Few can match Lyn Wineman’s passion for marketing—or for helping change-makers do more good in the world. As the founder, president, and chief strategist of the full-service advertising agency KidGlov, she has created a space where both of these passions flourish. Lyn’s talented team is known for putting the megaphone in front of those leading positive change. KidGlov earned its Certified B-Corp status in 2021, proof of their commitment to social and environmental excellence. Lyn is also the host of the Agency for Change podcast, yet another forum to amplify the voice of changemakers everywhere.


Cultivate Connections: Elevate Donor Relationships Through Strategic Communication and Turnkey Tools

Join The Philanthropy Coach Founder, Hannah Berger, and APCH Marketing Manager, Maggie Stillman, to learn how to create donor communications that are effective, and less burdensome for your team. This session includes a case study, live coaching and the opportunity to begin creating new effective, donor materials in real time!

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Maggie Stillman

Photo of Maggie Stillman
A Place Called Home - Marketing and Communications Manager
Maggie Stillman is a communications professional with experience in social media marketing, digital and print communication, and donor relations. Through her work, Maggie combines her marketing and communications skills with her passion for community building through storytelling and has used her expertise to support nonprofits in New York and Los Angeles. Maggie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Hunter College, CUNY, and a certification in Nonprofit Marketing and Communications from Arizona State University.

Hannah Berger, CFRE

Photo of Hannah Berger
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.


How to Launch a Successful Monthly Giving Program in a Small Non-profit

Are you looking to start a monthly giving program? Join this session to learn how to set up a monthly giving program; how to acquire new monthly donors; how to convert existing donors to monthly; and what you need to do to keep monthly donors (and even gain legacy prospects).

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Introductory/Foundational

Speakers

Sara Hoshooley

Photo of Sara Hoshooley
Charity Shift - Fundraising Consultant
Sara Hoshooley is a fundraising consultant and coach who LOVES working with small nonprofit organizations and small fundraising teams to create customized fundraising plans that raise more money. As a former small charity Executive Director she understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing small but growing nonprofits. Her unique approach uses each organization's strengths to grow fundraising in an authentic and sustainable way.

Jas Jhooty, MA

Photo of Jas Jhooty
Independent - Consultant
Both as a direct line fundraiser and consultant, Jas has over 16 years of monthly giving expertise including monthly acquisition, conversion, reactivation, and upgrades through email, digital, direct mail, telefundraising, DRTV, telethons, radiothons, and face-to-face/door-to-door. As a consultant, Jas supports charities of all sizes with fundraising planning, fundraising audits, donor journey mapping, and monthly giving program development and growth.


How to Write a Grant Application That Doesn’t Get Funded

Your organization was the perfect candidate for funding from XYZ Foundation, yet was rejected, again. Why?! During this session, a funder representative who reviews more than 1,000 grant applications each year will unlock the not-so-secret-secret on why your application was not a success.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Debra Faulk, CAP

Photo of Debra Faulk
Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services - Executive Director, Senior Philanthropic Specialist
Debra Faulk is a strategic, resourceful, and performance-driven philanthropic leader with 30 years of experience and demonstrated success in delivering excellent results for corporate, private, and family foundations, nonprofit organizations. In her current role, Debra provides day-to-day charitable administration and management, including the facilitation of more than $40 million in grantmaking each year. A life-long learner, Debria is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy, BoardSource Certified Governance Trainer, and sought-after thought-leader on topics of philanthropy, charitable trends, nonprofit governance, and succession planning. She earned two Masters, and Graduate Certificates in Nonprofit Management and Charitable Financial Planning.


The Campaign Doctor - How to Treat an Ailing Campaign

Almost every campaign -- whether it is an annual fund drive or capital campaign -- can hit a plateau, or start to fall apart completely. In this interactive session, we’ll review proven tactics that you can implement if it looks like you won't make your goal.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Caroline Bott, MPA

Photo of Caroline Bott
Virginia Fundraising Consultants - Senior Executive Consultant
Caroline is an experienced nonprofit administrator and fundraising professional who has spent more than two decades working in the educational, environmental, health, economic development, and public service sectors. Her areas of expertise include fundraising, strategic planning, and governance. As both a development professional and a consultant, Caroline has helped numerous organizations throughout the mid-Atlantic region fulfill their missions through philanthropy and capacity-building efforts. Caroline has an undergraduate degree from Randolph-Macon College and a Master of Public Administration degree, with a focus on Non-Profit Management, from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Virginia Thumm

Photo of Virginia Thumm
Virginia Fundraising Consultants - Virginia Fundraising Consultants
Virginia Thumm has worked in the nonprofit sector in New York and Virginia for more than 35 years. As Founder and President of Virginia Fundraising Consultants, Virginia has crafted and implemented plans for dozens of successful fundraising campaigns that have regularly exceeded their goal. Virginia is a longstanding member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, where she currently serves on the Board and as chair of the Ethics committee.


The Art of HBCU Philanthropy

Are you seeking to build a more inclusive and diverse philanthropic ecosystem? Join in on the discussion of the Art of HBCU Philanthropy to explore innovative approaches being deployed within the HBCU ecosystem.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift , Rebels, Renegades and Pioneers

Audience: Strategic

Speakers

Amy Goldstein, MA

Photo of Amy Goldstein
Thurgood Marshall College Fund - Vice President, Strategy
As Vice President, Strategy for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Amy D. Goldstein brings over 35 years of experience in the non-profit community, on the national, international, and local levels. At TMCF she is responsible for managing special initiatives and member-school capacity building activities, as well as relations with major foundations and partners supporting TMCF core programs. In 2020 she authored HBCUs and Prior Learning Assessments, an article published in the international journal Prior Learning Assessment Inside Out (PLAIO). She also lead a 4-HBCU research effort that to date has resulted in two academic articles.

Daryl Graham

Photo of Daryl Graham
Strada Education Foundation - Senior Vice President of HBCU and Engagement
As senior vice president of HBCU and Engagement, Daryl A. Graham oversees Strada Education Network’s strategic philanthropic investments and overall grant management efforts. Prior to joining Strada in 2017, Graham spent 15 years with JPMorgan Chase & Co., in Wilmington, Del., serving more than a decade as vice president and relationship manager where he identified grantmaking, sponsorship and volunteerism opportunities for the firm. His background also includes accounting and auditing positions at J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., ConocoPhillips and General Electric

Vita Pickrum, PhD

Photo of Vita Pickrum
Delaware State University - Vice President, Division of Institutional Advancement and President
Dr. Pickrum has established strategic public and private partnerships that have yielded significant financial support for the University. Dr. Pickrum serves on the Administrative Council, oversees the University's Endowment, and is the liaison to the Investment Managers. Dr. Pickrum's commitment to student success is evident in founding the HBCU (Historically Black College and University) Philanthropy Symposium – now in its 14th year (hbcusymposium.com) and drawing public and private HBCUs at each convening. This annual convening of universities, community colleges, and minority-serving institutions is a beacon of hope, focusing on institutional transformation and sustainability. In addition, Dr. Pickrum founded the

Birgit Smith Burton

Photo of Birgit Smith Burton
African American Development Officers - Chief Executive Officer
Birgit Smith Burton is the Chief Executive Officer of AADO, the African American Development Officers Network, which she founded at Georgia Tech in 1999 to provide professional development, education, employment support, mentorship, and networking opportunities for fundraisers of color. She is a well-regarded speaker on the topics of fundraising and diversity and has authored articles on diversity in the fundraising profession. Birgit co- authored the book, The Philanthropic Covenant with Black America, contributed to the book Five Minutes for Fundraising, A Collection of Expert Advice, and tells her personal story in the book Collecting Courage, which shares the lived experiences

Trina Bilal, MBA

Photo of Trina Bilal
KTB Consulting, LLC - Principal Consultant
Trina Bilal is a Change Agent, Motivational Speaker, STEM Advocate and seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience within the energy, technology, and telecommunications sectors. She primarily focuses on advancing the academic and economic competitiveness of underrepresented communities. Mrs. Bilal holds a B.B.A in International Business with a Finance concentration from Howard University, an M.B.A. from Georgetown University, and a Certificate in Business Excellence from Columbia University


From Data Analysis to Action: Utilizing AI for Nonprofit Success

Explore how AI can transform nonprofit communication strategies. This interactive session includes a live ChatGPT demo, teaching you to utilize AI for effective donor segmentation, message optimization, and increased engagement, ultimately boosting your nonprofit's impact.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Josh Hirsch, MS

Photo of Josh Hirsch
Soukup Strategic Solutions - Senior Strategist
Josh Hirsch is the Senior Strategist for Soukup Strategic Solutions. He has worked in the nonprofit sector since 2006. He has an extensive background in social media, digital communications, and marketing along with experience in grant research and writing, individual giving, special event planning, stewardship, and cultivation of donors. He is the Florida Caucus Representative for the AFP First Coast Chapter and Past-President of the Palm Beach County Chapter


You CAN have it all: Innovative Ways to Fundraise from Individuals and Institutions

Overwhelmed by fundraising responsibilities? Join this session to explore innovative strategies for balancing donor relations, event coordination, and grant writing. Learn to harness the major gift lifecycle effectively and equip yourself with practical tools to excel and thrive in your fundraising career.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Douglas Manigault III, CFRE, DSW, MSW

Photo of Douglas Manigault III
Interfaith Hospitality Network at Alpha House - Development Director
Douglas F. Manigault III, a macro-trained social worker, is the Development Director at the Interfaith Hospitality Network at Alpha House in Ann Arbor, MI. He has excelled in raising funds for a diverse range of nonprofit organizations, securing over $25 million from various sources. Douglas regularly presents at national conferences, focusing on social workers as fundraisers and fundraising rooted in racial justice. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Black Studies, master and doctorate degrees in social work, and CFRE.


Unlock The Secret to Explosive Nonprofit Growth (Presented by CharityEngine)

Is your nonprofit ready to scale up and make a significant impact? One powerful strategy can transform your growth trajectory: expanding and refining your monthly giving program. Monthly donors provide a steady, predictable revenue stream that fuels your mission and builds deeper connections with supporters. In this dynamic session, seasoned experts Dave Martin of CharityEngine and Dana Bunke of Easterseals will take you through a comprehensive, actionable roadmap for creating and optimizing a successful monthly giving program. You’ll gain insights into how to build a loyal donor base, leverage innovative tools, and maximize revenue retention.

Education Track(s): Securing the Gift

Audience: Applied

Speakers

Dana Bunke

Photo of Dana Bunke
Easterseals - Senior Vice President of Direct Response and Integrated Fundraising
Dana Bunke is a seasoned direct marketing and fundraising leader, currently serving as Senior Vice President of Direct Response and Integrated Fundraising at Easterseals - an organization leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services. Dana has consistently driven transformative results through her expertise in direct response television (DRTV), monthly giving, and strategic media buying. Her innovative approaches have helped improve brand metrics, visibility, and collaboration across teams and organizations, creating a lasting impact at organizations like Wounded Warrior Project, ALSAC/St. Jude, and Easterseals.

Dave Martin

Photo of Dave Martin
CharityEngine
Dave Martin is the Vice President of Marketing at CharityEngine. He’s a digital marketing expert with a unique combination of nonprofit and for-profit experience. He combines that with a track record of delivering real results. Prior to joining CharityEngine, Dave was the CMO at Blue Cypress where he helped purpose-driven leaders unlock growth. Before that, Dave was the Director of Marketing at the American College of Radiology. He was also the Chief Marketing Officer for Aptify, a company that makes Association Management Software. Additionally, he served as the Vice President of Marketing and Content for the Electronic Retailing Association (ERA).

4200 Wilson Blvd, Suite 480, Arlington, VA 22203 • 703-684-0410 | 800-666-3863 | Fax: 703-684-0540
© 2024 ASSOCIATION OF FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONALS
This site content may not be copied, reproduced or redistributed without prior written
permission from the Association of Fundraising Professionals or its affiliates.