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District VIII Annual Conference 2025
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2:45 PM - 3:45 PM PST
One hour, one story, ten guests – 100 opportunities to raise money!
Are you always looking for a more efficient way to fundraise? Join Capilano University as we share our successes in transforming the traditional fundraising model into an impactful and intimate experience. In this session, you'll discover the power of just one hour in maximizing engagement and donor potential by utilizing a small number of table hosts rather than relying on securing large event attendance.
Learn from our Marketing & Digital Communication team as they use brand storytelling to strengthen connection, reputation, and impact, while reflecting the values of your institution. Gain tips on how to craft a compelling impact story video that resonates deeply with your audience, making your cause irresistible. Plus, build a sponsorship strategy to offset 100% of the event’s expense.
Leave with actionable insights and practical tips to elevate your fundraising efforts. ‘We Believe’ our unique breakfast event model will inspire ideas and unlock new opportunities for your organization. CapU was recognized with a CASE Grand Gold Circle of Excellence Award for their We Believe fundraising video.
Speakers: Cari Bird, Manager, Creative, Marketing & Digital Experience, Capilano University, Jennifer Bryan, Director, Philanthropy & Alumni Relations, Capilano University, Zoran Stjepanovic, Philanthropy Officer, Individual Giving, Capilano University
Competencies: Relationship BuildingIndustry or Sector Expertise
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM PST
"Of the School - For the School" Advancing your Mission With Each Conversation
Have you ever had a great idea to Advance the Mission of your School, only to have it limited by inaccessible resources? The best ideas in academic programming, athletic offerings, residential life experiences, issues around DEI, educational technology, risk-management, and student support often come with price tags that put them out of reach. Explore how to deepen your impact as a leader through practical approaches to securing the human and financial resources needed, "one conversation at a time".
Speakers: Dave Fitzpatrick, Director of Advancement, St. George's School
Competencies: LeadershipRelationship Building
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM PST
Reporting Revolution: Streamlined And Sophisticated
Join us as we explore the evolution of principal gift (PG) impact reporting at the University of Calgary. This session will provide insights into our phased approach to improving donor communication, enhancing financial transparency, and strengthening bespoke reporting. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how strategic changes in stewardship practices can lead to more meaningful donor engagement and operational efficiencies.
Speakers: Jessica Halliday, Director, Stewardship, University of Calgary
Competencies: Industry or Sector ExpertiseStrategic Thinking
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM PST
Net Positive: Spreading Authentic Joy in a Cynical Digital World
In an era dominated by the attention economy, the digital landscape is rife with cynicism, misinformation, and disengagement. Yet, as fundraisers, optimism is in our DNA. So, what would happen if we decided to lean into that optimism? And what if it were contagious? In this “net-positive” session, we’ll explore how joy and hope are not only core to who we are but something we’re uniquely capable of spreading. Discover how to create authentic and thoughtfully designed online experiences for your community that capture attention—and then effectively channel that attention towards meaningful and impactful philanthropic initiatives. We’ve got examples!
Speakers: Miranda Beierman, Director of Donor Communications, Pacific Lutheran University, Troy Steinmetz, Manager of Partner Success, GiveCampus
Competencies: Emotional IntelligenceRelationship Building
Topics: Alumni EngagementAnnual Giving
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM PST
Becoming an Innovation Hub: Data Strategies & Overcoming Cultural Resistance
Learn how advancement services at the University of Manitoba became the catalyst for a data-driven transformation and a hub of innovation. This journey began with a bold statement: "to become a data-driven organization." By implementing direct changes, advancement services evolved from a small service unit into a dynamic solutions provider. This transformation rapidly expanded to adjacent business units and, within just four years, reached central departments and faculties. Discover the best practices and strategies that fueled this rapid evolution, and learn how to apply these principles to foster innovation and data-driven decision-making in your own organization. Join us for an inspiring session filled with actionable insights and proven success stories.
Speakers: Alex Campomanes, Executive Director, Advancement, The University of Manitoba
Competencies: Business and Financial AcumenLeadership
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM PST
Crafting a Dynamic Day of Giving for Non-Traditional Student Communities
Discover how Portland State University, an urban campus with a non-traditional student body, has created a vibrant and successful Day of Giving campaign with nearly 100 participating funds. This session will reveal the unique strategies used to garner widespread support and brand recognition among campus partners, alumni, faculty/staff, and students. Attendees will learn how to leverage challenges, foster effective partner communication and training, boost student involvement, and execute a comprehensive communications strategy. Join us to gain actionable insights and proven methods to elevate your institution’s Day of Giving.
Speakers: Amanda Gabriel-Landis, Digital Communications Manager, Portland State University Foundation, Carol Perales, Associate Director, Annual Giving, Portland State University Foundation, Connor Tudbury, Director of Annual Giving, Portland State University Foundation
Competencies: Strategic ThinkingRelationship Building