8:30 – 12 p.m.

Preconference Sessions

12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Preconference Luncheon with speaker James H Johnson Jr.

1:30 – 4 p.m.

Preconference Sessions

5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Opening Plenary

Mona Chalabi, Data Editor, The Guardian

Mona Chalabi is a journalist who really loves numbers. She is the data editor of The Guardian where she writes articles, produces documentaries, and illustrates, as well as animates, data. After analyzing statistics for the United Nations, Mona saw how important data was, but also how easily it could be used by people with their own specific agendas.

6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Opening Reception

7:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Meet-Ups

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Preconference Session Registration and Breakfast

8:30 - 8:35 a.m. 

Welcome and Introductions

8:35 – 9:35 a.m.

High Performing DSOs Revisited

Speaker:  Brian Flahaven, Senior Director for Advocacy, CASE

An in-depth look into the highest performing DSOs and the characteristics that attribute to DSO success.

9:30 – 10 a.m.

Alumni Programming at Community Colleges: Starts, Stops, Successes, and Strategies

Speakers: Christa Newkirk, Director, Prospect Research, Alumni Relations, and Special Projects Central Piedmont Community College; Kelsey Jones, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement West Georgia Technical College; Laura Schumacher, Alumni and Employee Giving Coordinator Seminole State College of Florida

Join representatives from three colleges at different stages of alumni engagement. This panel will discuss some of the current successes that they have found, including the processes and basics of establishing an alumni association at the community college level. Bring your questions to help create a great dialogue and impactful session.

8:35 – 9:35 a.m. 

Gift Acceptance, MOUs and Naming Rights

Speaker: Ann Decker

A deep exploration of the process for accepting large gifts, the paperwork and the end results of gift naming.

9:35 – 10:30 a.m.

Small Shops with Great Impacts

Speaker: Julia R. Crippen, Director, Grants Management, Pitt Community College

Lessons and tips from the field. North Carolina small shop grants offices at community colleges grouped together this past year to share best practices. Now it’s your turn to gain from their experience. This session reviews grants go-no-go decision making, tracking impacts, training staff, and policy and procedures. Small shop colleges will benefit from the electronic documents shared during this session. This session will include a sharing session for participants.

10:30 – 11 a.m. 

Break

11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Special Event Speed Dating

This session looks at a wide range of events, from galas to golf tournaments, to uncover the successful pieces to a profitable event. Participants will speed date through four programs and come up with some takeaways for your school.

11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Let’s Talk Title III Grants Proposal Development & Implementation

Speakers: Jennifer Peterson, Director of Resource Development, Florida State College at Jacksonville; Sarah Reardon

The U.S. Department of Education’s Title III Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) is one of the most variable and inspired competitive grant programs out there! SIP provides discretionary grants to eligible institutions of higher education to help them become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the institution’s academic quality, institutional management and fiscal stability. This session will include tips for developing a compelling Title III SIP grant proposal and completing those puzzling, pre-proposal designation forms, and advice for grant writing and implementation.

12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Luncheon

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Digital Marketing Part I: Trends, Tips, and Tricks for Community Colleges and Higher Learning

Speaker:  Larry Meador, CEO, evok Advertising Agency

It is becoming more and more competitive for community and state colleges to find and attract the right students and donors. How does your community college compete in this environment?

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Grants

Speaker:  Liz Gombash

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Digital Marketing Part II: Marketing Plans for Colleges and DSOs

Speaker:  Larry Meador, CEO, evok Advertising Agency

A wrap-up of the first session on digital marketing and then we will cover marketing plans for DSOs and what should be included.

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Perkins V Grant Discussion

Speakers: Ellen Burns; Kristeen Christian, Assistant Vice President, Valencia College

The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act was signed into law on July 31, 2018. The Act amends the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education (Perkins IV) Act of 2006 and reauthorizes Perkins for six years. One of the major changes in Perkins V is the requirement for local agencies to conduct a Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA). The CLNA will serve as the basis for local Perkins application development and future decision making. Come to this conference session for an open dialog with your colleagues about Perkins V grant implementation.

3:30 – 4 p.m.

Wrap-Up 

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Preconference Session Registration and Breakfast

8:30 – 8:45 a.m. 

Welcome and Introductions

8:45 – 9:30 a.m. 

Generation Z

Speaker: Keith Warburg, Valdosta State University 

By Spring 2020, most traditional college students enrolled in our institutions will belong to Generation Z. Unfortunately, many of our institutions have just finished adapting to the preferences and needs of millennials. So what’s the big difference? Dr. Keith Warburg (Valdosta State University) will discuss key findings from emerging research on this new generation regarding their communication preferences, what they value, and how they engage with your organization. 

9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Rise of Massive Capital Campaigns 

Speaker: Tom Jennings, Florida State University 

$500 million. $900 million. $2.4 Billion. $5 Billion. No longer an option, capital campaigns are an essential tool in the advancement office’s arsenal. In 2019, at least four flagship institutions were aiming at $3 billion or more in campaign goals. How is this possible? Dr. Tom Jennings (Florida State University) will discuss strategies, tactics, and goals for understanding and managing a massive capital campaign. 

10:30 – 11 a.m.

Emerging Trends - Break #1 

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Free Speech and Expressions on Campus 

Speaker: Lorelle Espinosa 

When national politics, conflicting opinions, and social media cross paths on your campus, what is your plan? Colleges across the country make choices daily to protect students’ first amendment rights and freedom of expression while simultaneous protecting the brand and constituent perception, with mixed outcomes. Dr. Lorelle Espinosa of the American Council on Education will present new research aimed at understanding how colleges respond to issues, how they plan for issues, and how their choices play out in weeks to come. 

12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Luncheon

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Data-Driven Decision Making 

Speaker: Reshunda L. Mahone, Virginia State University 

In a time when your refrigerator can order its own groceries and a pair of shoes you looked at once now follow you in ads across the internet, data surrounds us completely. As fundraisers and/or communicators, we’re often faced with more data than we can process effectively. Reshunda Mahone will discuss strategies you can use to capture good data, gain insights from it, and shape successful decision-making for your team. 

2:30 – 2:45 p.m.

Break #2 

2:45 – 3:45 p.m.

What It Means to Go West (Again) - Aligning Communications in a Refreshed Brand

Speaker: Colton Campbell, University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia’s "Go West" branding campaign has been articulated to a broad spectrum of target audiences using a diverse range of communication channels. When the brand entered its latest refresh phase, how did the university's communications team adapt to the new style of storytelling to capture audiences central to the university's strategic imperatives?

3:45 – 4 p.m.

Wrap-Up 

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Registration and Breakfast
 

8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Welcome and Introductions

Anita Walton, Senior Director, Diversity and Talent Management, CASE; and Jannette Adams
 

9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Power Session 1: Giving Days and Giving Challenges

Moderator: Dr. Deborah Fontaine, Vice President for University Advancement, Norfolk State University

Speakers: Marc A. Barnes, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Dillard University; Marcus H. Burgess, Associate Vice President for Major and Planned Gifts, Claflin University; Reshunda Mahone, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Virginia State University

Whether you have one, plan to add one or are thinking about having one, Giving Days and Giving Challenges are hot topics! We have all the information you need to help you decide what’s best for you.   

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Break #1
 

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Power Session 2: Planned Giving in 3D

Moderator:  LaDaniel Gatling, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Bennett College

Speakers: Christina Berry, Major Gifts Officer/Corporate & Foundation, Jackson State University; Constance Lawson, Chief Development Officer, Jackson State University; Shenika Swan, Director of Planned and Individual Giving, Spelman College

Join us for a panel discussion where we will debunk the myths, demystify the methods, and defeat the obstacles regarding gift planning. Bring your questions and be prepared to leave with tools to implement and elevate your Planned Giving program.

12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Luncheon: James H. Johnson Jr., William R. Kenan Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship and Director, Urban Investment Strategies Center
 

1:40 – 2:40 p.m.

Power Session 3: The Dream Team: Working with Academic Partners
 

Moderator: Reshunda Mahone, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Virginia State University

Speakers: Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Dean of the Business School, Florida A&M University; and Nicholas Hill, Dean of the School of Business, Claflin University

Imagine what you could do if every dean or academic leader on your campus joined your fundraising team. A true partnership between a Dean and/or an academic leader and their development team is the key to successful fundraising. We’ll share what it takes to create this type of partnership and specific practices of how to put it into practice.  

2:40 – 3:40 p.m.

Power Session 4: The Social Media Mogul

Speakers: George Johnson, Assistant Vice President, Marketing and Communication; Charnita Mack, Public Relations & Social Media Coordinator, Communications & Marketing

Strengthen your marketing, connection with Millennials and Generation Z, and utilize your social media platforms to expand engagement, storytelling, and measurement.

3:45 - 4 p.m.

Wrap-Up

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Preconference Session Registration and Breakfast

8:30 – 9 a.m. 

Welcome and Introductions

9 – 9:30 a.m. 

Your Brand: Who am I? Rules for Success 

Speaker: Anita Walton, CASE

9:30 – 10 a.m.

Why We Do What We Do 

Speakers: Peter Rooney and Bill Doerr, Brookstone School 

10 – 10:30 a.m.

What Was I Thinking: Mentors, Advancement of Your Ideas and Strategic Career Planning 

Speaker: Jay Dowd, Chief Executive Officer, The Citadel Foundation; Vice President of Institutional Advancement, The Citadel

10:30 – 11 a.m.

Break #1 

11 – 11:15 a.m.

Small-Group Time #1 

11:15 – 11:45 a.m.

Watch Your Language! Advancement Lingo 

Speaker: Angela Mills, Virginia Tech 

The work we do is critical to our success. It is important to know our terminology and how to define what we do. Learn about the language of advancement and be better equipped to do your work and collaborate with others to be successful.

11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. 

Managing the Flow 

Speaker: Lindsey Field 

12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Luncheon

1:30 – 1:45 p.m. 

Small-Group Time #2 

1:45 – 2:15 p.m.

Is it Data or Data: What Makes a Gift a Gift, the Marriage of Operations and Fundraising 

Speaker: Cassie Hunt, Executive Director of Advancement Operations, Washington and Lee University

Newcomers to Advancement will gain an understanding of the basics of Advancement Operations, the value of the partnership between Ops and front line fundraisers/engagement officers and how they can work together for the mutual benefit to an organization.

2:15 – 2:30 p.m.

Break #2 

2:30 – 3 p.m.

Donor Stewardship 

Speaker: Vicky Medlock, Rollins College

3 – 3:30 p.m. 

Small-Group Time #3 

3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.

CASE 101 

Speaker: Chris Clarke, Senior Assistant Vice President for Trinity College and Graduate School Development, Duke University

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Preconference Session Registration and Breakfast

8:30 – 8:35 a.m.

Welcome and Introductions

8:35 – 9:35 a.m.

Implicit Bias

Speaker:  Christina Chang, Principal, Christina Chang Equity Consulting, LLC

Despite spurious claims of being pseudoscience, implicit bias is very real. This workshop will take a deeper dive into this scientific phenomenon: every day, we make tens of thousands of automatic, unconscious decisions to successfully navigate our complicated world. But what happens when we apply those unconscious decisions against people? We'll explore the systemic biases that overwhelmingly affect marginalized communities and populations in the workplace, and strategies to interrupt.

9:35 – 10:30 a.m.

Donors of Color are Not New and Emerging: Engaging the Past, Present and Future of Black Generosity

Speaker:  Tyrone M. Freeman, Assistant Professor of Philanthropic Studies, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

In the field, we’ve grown accustomed to calling donors of color “new and emerging.” In this session, we will use history to explore why this is not only false but may be impeding genuine efforts to connect and build relationships with our diverse constituents. By deepening our knowledge of the historical traditions and practices of philanthropy in communities of color, we can better understand the robust landscape of African American philanthropy today and be more equipped to cultivate meaningful and helpful donor relationships with people of color.

10:30 – 11 a.m.

Break #1

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Philanthropic Motivations of LGBT Donors and Same-Sex Couples

Speakers:  Sarah Anderson, Elizabeth Dale, Assistant Professor, Nonprofit Leadership, Seattle University

While academic research on philanthropy has grown, little research has focused on the motivations and practices of LGBT donors. Join us to learn about new research on LGBT donors, their philanthropy, and their donor experiences. We’ll also explore how same-sex couples think about charitable giving and make philanthropic decisions. You’ll leave this in-depth discussion with a better understanding of the motivations, priorities, and concerns of LGBT donors and with a series of concrete strategies to inspire increased and inclusive giving to your institution.

12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Luncheon

1:40 – 2:40 p.m.

Gender Matters: Moving from Data to Designs for New Outcomes

Speaker:  Kathleen E. Loehr, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group

We are what we practice. Fundraisers across the United States are extremely practiced at raising over $400B each year. But what if we knew that our deeply engrained “best practices” either turn off women or gain only minimal support from them when so much more is possible? We finally have deep and quantifiable research showing how women engage and give differently, yet we are not acknowledging the opportunity cost for not adapting our engagement and fundraising to these differences. Our critical missions are losing significant support now and for our future. This session looks at the data that can be applied to grow new engagement, dollars, donors and leaders from women. I’ll provide examples of designs happening at other institutions to adapt fundraising behaviors, the successes they are achieving and help you gain actionable steps for reimagining how you approach women.

2:45 – 3:45 p.m.

Hispanic Philanthropy: Oye Cómo Va

Speakers:  George Corton; Karla Hernandez

With the Hispanicization of America (estimated to be 1/3 of the population by 2050) and the changing face of college enrollment and alumni, it's time to think about Hispanic philanthropy and ask ourselves: "Oye Como Va? ("How's it going?"). With research on the ways that Hispanic or LatinX philanthropy differs from conventional approaches and real-world examples of cultivation and solicitation strategies, the presenters will take you on a deep dive into the art of the ask with Hispanic donors. In addition, they will share strategies and approaches to attract corporate partners who want to reach the Hispanic demographic.

3:45 – 4 p.m.

Wrap-Up and Reflection Exercise

Meet-Ups 

Includes breakfast.

Drop It Like It's Hot: Tax Laws (Coach's Corner)

Focus Area: Legislation Advocacy

Brian Flahaven, senior director for advocacy for CASE, will be discussing the latest news on tax laws and what they mean for your advancement shop and giving forecasts. 

Speaker: Brian Flahaven, Government Relations, CASE

3 Solutions to Burnout: Stop Feeling Overwhelmed & Start Loving Your Work 

Speakers: Jenna Goodman, Generous Change; Nancy Jackson, Generous Change 

Amazing, ambitious fundraiser! Do you wonder if there is such a thing as work/life balance? At work, you're constantly traveling, planning your next trip and the next 2 trips after that. With donors, you're working toward the next gift and the next gift after that. Because you're ambitious, you're striving for the next promotion. All the while, you've got partners that miss you, family that needs you and friends that can't wait to plan your next get-together. Burnout in fundraising is real! Come ready to share your own struggles with work/life balance, learn from presenters with 25 years of fundraising experience what to do (and what NOT to do) to unplug, get organized, manage time, be more productive, say no to the urgent & unimportant so you can avoid burnout. 

Accomplishing Advancement Goals with Limited Resources 

Speakers: John Michael Lee Jr., Elizabeth City State University; Reshunda L. Mahone, Virginia State University; Harriet F. Davis, North Carolina Central University; LaTanya D. Afolayan, Winston-Salem State University 

Fundraising at institutions with limited resources can be a daunting task. Not only is there a shortage of human capital, but also operating budgets are usually very limited. However, the goals and expectations for fundraising that are set by Presidents and Chancellors are at an all time high. This session will examine how to approach fundraising at low-resourced institutions to maximize outcomes while staying within your unique institutional constraints.

CASE Thought Leadership: The Latest on Advocacy and Benchmarking

What are the key takeaways of the 2019 CASE Voluntary Support of Education Survey? How is CASE using VSE data in its advocacy on Capitol Hill and beyond? And what can we expect on the legislative front this presidential election year? This session will provide an overview of CASE’s advocacy and data initiatives. Attendees will also learn how they can participate in CASE’s advocacy efforts, with a focus on engaging alumni in advocacy.

Speakers:
Brian Flahavan, Senior Director for Advocacy, CASE
Ann Kaplan, Senior Director for Voluntary Support of Education Program, CASE
Chris Theriot, Director of Development, University of West Alabama

Leading through Crisis: Communicating during Unpredictable Times 

Speakers: Christy Jackson, UNC Charlotte; Christopher Gonyar, UNC Charlotte; Michelle McDermott; Colleen Penhall

In the last 15 years, there’s been an increase in the amount of reputational and crime-related crises on campus. How colleges and universities respond (formally and informally) sends a message that quickly bolsters or damages leadership and institutional credibility. During this session, crisis communication experts will share their lessons learned from navigating the challenges of life on campus in 2020, including their recent experience in responding to an active campus shooting that took the lives of two students and injured four others. The session will include opportunities to engage in dialogue and to work through real-life scenarios. We’ll discuss the principles that guide the success of crisis response, the cross-functional effort to keep stakeholders informed, and the decisions leaders must make during unpredictable times. 

Scrum 101: How to Apply Agile Project Management Methodologies to Any Advancement Services Shop 

Speaker: Jessica LaBorde, University of California, Davis 

Do you struggle to manage projects? Do your final products for your stakeholders just miss the mark? Have you heard of Agile Scrum but are not sure of the details or are afraid to ask? Join Jessica LaBorde for an engaging, interactive workshop where she will break down components of Agile Scrum, how it works, and how to start using it in your shop, no matter the size. She will provide industry definitions and guide you through a real-life application of the agile project management philosophy, in a fun and accessible format. You will leave the session with a deeper understanding of the Scrum concept and tips to start using its tenets right away. 

The Art of the Ask: Strengthening Personal Solicitations Skills 

Speaker: Arthur Criscillis, Alexander Haas 

Arthur Criscillis, Managing Partner of Alexander Haas, leads a super session addressing the key elements of working with individual prospects, from getting the first appointment, developing the strategy, soliciting the gift, handling objections and closing the gift. Come prepared to garner some very practical information that you can utilize immediately. The first hour focuses on effective preparation for personal solicitation and explores strategies for getting the appointment — especially that critical first appointment—making the most of that initial visit and key steps in cultivation. In the second hour, Arthur will discuss soliciting the gift, with tips for presenting your request clearly and cogently. Recognizing that the answer to gift requests is often something other than “yes", he will also discuss ways to deal with potential objections and provide strategies for closing the gift. This super session will send you home with new perspective on solicitation and enhanced skills to put to use immediately. 

The Fundraising Throwdown! 

Speaker: Brian Gawor, Ruffalo Noel Levitz 

Ever wonder what would happen if a bunch of fundraising nerds and a cooking show collided? Well, join us for this fun, interactive session where teams of conference attendees attack a “secret ingredient” in fundraising. You’ll participate live in the audience to share your opinions, vote on the winners of each round and connect with new friends to improve your own “cooking.” This session will integrate ideas from annual giving, special events, and major/planned giving. Come join the show! 

The Impact of Data on Alumni Relations Success 

Speakers:
Andy Reeher, Vice President, Data Intelligence, Blackbaud
Scott Francis, Associate Vice Chancellor and President, East Carolina University Alumni Association
Christina Million, Associate Vice President and Executive Director, University Development & Alumni Affairs, Georgia State University
Archie Tucker, Vice President for Marketing, Communication & Advancement, Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical University
Elizabeth Underwood, Senior Director of Alumni Engagement & Annual Giving, University of North Carolina at Asheville

Data plays an important role in informing engagement strategies. It’s not just for “others” anymore! Let’s take a deep dive into how alumni relations and associations can use data to give it human context and inform engagement practices from board recruitment to event attendees. Come to this super session prepared to learn and share what you are doing in a forum designed to develop a common understanding around the key role data plays in alumni strategy. 

Monday Plenary

Soren Kaplan, Author and Innovation Expert

Soren Kaplan is the bestselling and award-winning author of Leapfrogging and The Invisible Advantage, an Affiliate at the Center for Effective Organizations at USC’s Marshall School of Business, a writer for FastCompany and Inc. Magazine, a globally-recognized keynote speaker, and the Founder of InnovationPoint and upBOARD.

Opportunity and Inclusion Luncheon

Separate ticket required. Available for purchase with conference registration. Contact Member Support for assistance, +1-202-328-CASE [2273] or support.case.org.

Meet-Ups

3D Board Meetings: Engaging, Value-Added, and Effective 

Speaker: Angela Mills, Virginia Tech 

Creating a more engaging, value-added, and effective board meeting is key to the success of a school or college. Learn strategies and tactics to change your board meetings to better utilize your board members, provide greater insights for you, and bring higher value to your organization. Bringing almost 20 years of experience, Angela will share how she has transformed her college board to move from a 3 to 10 out of 10 NPS score by their board members.

Be a Duck: Creating and controlling the chaos of an Inaugural Day of Giving 

Speaker: Stephanie Carroll, Lipscomb University 

We will cover the timeline of the three-month time-frame we used to plan our inaugural giving day which resulted in over 2700 donors in 24 hours. The plan is that those who attend this session will walk away knowing that any school can accomplish a Giving Day and will leave with practical tips and resources. Stephanie Carroll serves as the Assistant Vice President of Annual Giving and Alumni and Parent Engagement and has over 9 years of experience in Higher Education Advancement.  

Breaking the Stigma: Gift Planning for Young/New Gift Officers 

Speaker: Byron Liles, University of Texas at Austin; Tony Weber, University of Texas at Austin

This session will hopefully help beginner gift officers get over the hurdle of potential unease when donors want to discuss their estate plan, or even help officers broach the subject themselves, including basics of gift planning. Beginning his career in gift planning at age 25, the presenter can offer perspectives on how, without a law/financial planning background, he fell in love with planned giving and the conversations had with donors. Hopefully, gift officers will leave with more comfort on not only what to listen for, but how to steer conversations to allow donors to know they are impacting institutions.

Building a one-person advancement shop from the ground up 

Speaker: Andrew Dale, Southwest Mississippi Community College 

Working in a small advancement shop can be overwhelming at first, this session is designed to give you a firm footing on the things that must be in place before you begin fundraising, a few things you can do along the way, and what not to do the first year on the job. Dr. Andrew Dale has served as the Executive Director of the SMCC Foundation, Inc at Southwest Mississippi Community College since 2018 and has first-hand experience with the roadblocks of a small shop. Use these ideas to plan for adding staff, getting colleagues to join your team and setting up an advisory board. 

Come for a Visit, Stay for an Experience 

Speakers: Michele Horn, University of Georgia; Lisa Robbins, University of Georgia 

In this session we will discuss how the University of Georgia created a more optimized and immersive visitor experience for prospective students and their families. We’ll share changes we made to inspire high-achieving students to apply to the University of Georgia and how we developed engaging ways to communicate the distinct opportunities and value a University of Georgia education offers. Attendees will walk away with an outline of how to implement something similar at their institution. 

Designing Engagement for the Disenchanted 

Speakers: Valerie T. Wilkins, M.Ed. Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership, William & Mary; Ivana Marshall, William & Mary; Katie Lowe, William & Mary 

We will cover how we have used both quantitative and qualitative data to revamp our work with diverse alumni populations. Through an interactive presentation, utilizing appropriate technology, we will offer an interactive discussion to approach one of higher education’s most elusive conundrums. Our speakers range in age and experience across higher education; including but not limited to planning and implementing signature events, connecting with current students via student affairs, working with alumni to provide meaningful programming, and collaborating with underrepresented alumni populations to better reflect William and Mary’s mission of inclusion. Takeaways will include copies of the presentation and printed versions of our models to building community with underrepresented alumni. 

Developing Principled Leaders 

Speaker: Geno Paluso, Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina 

The session will focus on a discussion about leadership and team building from the perspective of a SEAL Officer after 25 years of service in the Special Operations community.  

Effective Strategies for Work-Life Balance: A Guide for Fundraisers 

Speaker: Chad M. Krouse, Virginia Commonwealth University 

To be a servant of philanthropy is to be constantly giving of yourself to others and to your institution. What about giving something to yourself that feeds and informs your fundraising work while staving off burnout? This session explores the Four-Dimensional Rule of Life as an accessible and practical tool guiding development professionals to better define and measure personal boundaries with accountability. The session provides an easy guide for establishing self-identifiable goals addressing issues of work-life balance. 

Establishing Structure and Metrics in a Small Advancement Shop 

Speakers: Chris Theriot, The University of West Alabama Foundation; Chris Thomason, The University of West Alabama Foundation 

This session serves as a case study, and addresses how small, tangible “wins” can work to help move a small advancement office to be more successful. Topics include how to establish a working donor database, how to hire key personnel, how to establish key best practices in fund development, and how to use third party consultants on a tight budget. Key “take aways” will be established from these and other topics, that the participants can easily implement at their own advancement offices. Presenters are Dr. Chris Thomason, CFRE, and Mr. Chris Theriot, CFRE, both with the University of West Alabama (UWA) Foundation, and together, have over a half century’s experience in the nonprofit/higher-education/fund development industries. 

How To Break Obsolete Fundraising Rules and Inspire Mega-Giving 

Speakers: Elizabeth Zeigler, Graham-Pelton; Jack Shannon, Christian Brothers University

According to the recent Giving USA release, philanthropic support reached an all-time high of $410.02 billion - with gifts from individual donors comprising 84% of this. Transformative mega-gifts are often the drivers behind this growth, supported by the vast new wealth that's been created in recent decades. There are more billionaires in the world than ever before and more of those fortunes are supporting philanthropic initiatives and world-changing visions. What isn't new, however, is that the cost of raising these gifts is 10-20 times lower than the cost of raising smaller gifts through other activities. This adage has been proven relevant many times over. This demonstrates that the timing is right to begin considering how your team needs to plan and implement a strategy that encourages donors to make the largest gifts of their lifetime—to your school. "Hold on a minute," you might say. "Mega-gifts sound amazing, but there is no way we have the donor pipeline, deep pockets, or development staff in place to make this happen at our school. " We beg to differ. This talk enables and encourages schools of any size, staffing, and existing levels of support to reframe thinking and consider the potential for major gifts when the right strategy is planned and implemented. Participants will leave with: - Analysis of the latest research that demonstrates that mega-gifts are on the rise, particularly within education. - Case studies that illustrate the leading motivations among mega-gift prospects and best practices for engagement. - Inspiration and guidance to make bold asks, including when you should break obsolete fundraising rules. Mega-gifts require mega-vision. The strategies that we will teach during this session can inspire gifts of a lifetime. 

I'd Like a Promotion Please! (Coach's Corner)

Focus Areas: Career Goals; Leadership Skills

What are some of the basic leadership skills you need to know before taking on that next role? From frontline fundraising to alumni engagement, what are hiring managers looking for? Learn what skills you need and how to present them in order to take the next step up the ladder.

Speakers: Brandon T. McCray, Associate Vice President, Development Constituent Programs, The Florida State University Foundation; Angelique Grant, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group

Leveraging Presidential Transition 

Speakers: Karen S. Cochran, UCF; John A. Gyllin, Seminole State College; Laurie Houck 

With development experts of a large public institution, a liberal arts college, and a community college, this session will provide a well-rounded perspective on how to capitalize on a presidential transition. Learn how to brief your incoming president on fundraising priorities, leverage the legacy of your outgoing president, and make the most of the positive energy surrounding the sense of “new” on campus. 

Making Social Media 3D: Bringing A University's Brand To Life 

Speaker: Carly McCarthy Hollowell, UCF Social Media Manager, University of Central Florida 

Attendees will learn how the University of Central Florida leverages social media as a tool to attract prospective students, engage current students and connect with alumni and fans around the world. From giving your brand a personality on social to engaging with your audience to create loyal followers, UCF's social media manager has experience in finding a brand's voice and creating a loyal audience base. Attendees will be able to take away skills in finding a brand's voice, tips to engaging with different audiences and creating content for various platforms.

Mobilizing Data Analytics 

Speaker: Michelle C. Gregory, James Madison University

Michelle Gregory, a Senior BI developer with 16 years experience, will discuss the need for mobilizing data analytics. She will discuss the process of developing and implementing innovative tools utilizing Cognos Analytics and how James Madison University was able to meet the needs of their internal constituents. Michelle will demonstrate each of the developed mobile data analytics tools. 

New Kids on the Block: How a Small Alumni Relations Shop Gained BIG Results 

Speaker: Kiersten Jefferson, Virginia State University; Charmica Epps, Virginia State University 

This presentation will show how a new small shop Alumni Relations Office creates exciting programming and engaging social media content with common applications. Attendees will leave with creative content and programming ideas that will be sure to be a hit with their followers and increase their engagement with their network of followers. 

Prospect Management WOW: Partnering with Training 

Speakers: Leslee R. Gensinger, Virginia Commonwealth University; Kristin Richardson, Virginia Commonwealth University 

This session covers how Prospect Management and Training collaborated to inform fundraisers of new policy and procedures that changed the scope of their work. Kristin Richardson is the Director of Prospect Development and has over 6 years of experience in this field; Leslee Gensinger is the department trainer for VCU's DAR team and has 11 years experience in training. They both have 4 years experience with VCU. The attendee will learn how the two teams worked together to develop and implement the training and partnered with each to elevate fundraiser adherence and retention. 

Recipe For Success: How To Thrive As A Fundraiser 

Speakers: Jenna Goodman, Generous Change; Nancy Jackson, Generous Change; Teresa Waddle Gotthardt, University of Kentucky College of Arts & Sciences

Wish more donors would respond to your emails? Ready to have donor conversations that move toward the right gift faster? Want to be more productive and organized at your desk? This session is for you! Whether you're 6 months or 6 years into your fundraising career, you’ll find value in our proven email formula, specific tips to boost your confidence in every donor meeting and practical tools to use at your desk, every day, to help you raise more money and thrive in this amazing (yet, mysterious and challenging!) career. 

The Bulldog Challenge: A Collaboration Between Alumni, Athletics, and Academia 

Speakers: Sonya DiPalma, University of North Carolina at Asheville; Emma Anderson, UNC Asheville 

Associate Professor Sonya DiPalma and Assistant Director of Annual Giving Emma Anderson will discuss how collaboration across three primary university units lead to successful student learning outcomes and reinforced a culture of philanthropy with prospective alumni. Details will be given on course design, content generation, social media analytics, digital giving platforms, and working across departments to achieve a fundraising goal. 

Turning Survey Data into Marketing Magic 

Speakers: Christina Holder, Senior Director, Marketing and Communications, Duke Alumni Association; 
Beverly Harris, Senior Director, Strategic Business Analytics, Duke Alumni Association

Every two years, the Duke Alumni Association sends an “alumni attitudes survey” to its 175,000 alumni to better understand their wants and needs—everything from alumni programming to how they can stay better connected to the university they love. That survey data unlocks key insights into the marketing messages and the unique content alumni should be receiving throughout the year. In this session you'll learn from the Duke Alumni Association's communications team how to apply several universal insights from our survey to change the way you communicate with your alumni. You’ll learn the importance of sending surveys, how to communicate what you learned via fun, easily-digestible graphics and about the slight tweaks you can make to your messaging to resonate with target audiences including young alumni, graduate school alumni and alumni who live far away from campus.

We're Bringing Stewardship Back (YEAH!) 

Speakers: Tori Bennett, University of West Florida; Elizabeth Gray, University of West Florida 

This presentation will cover how to bring stewardship back for both annual and major donors. After years of not having a proper stewardship program, UWF has analyzed and focused on how to thank donors properly by following best practices. Being in development for over five years and realizing the importance of donor retention (and love), I decided to bring back UWF's stewardship program. The program has one coordinator who has one year of experience. With low budgets and a small shop, we had to get smart but think big! 

#StandWithBennett: A Campaign to Save Bennett College 

Speakers: LaDaniel Gatling, Bennett College; Yolande Johnson, Bennett College; Aziz Peregrino-Brimah, Bennett College

In December 2018, Bennett College had to face the challenge of raising a minimum of $5 million to help save its accreditation. The #StandWithBennett campaign was launched by the College and the eight-person team that made up the Office of Institutional Advancement. In the end, fifty-five days after the darkest moment in the college’s 146-year-history, the fundraising campaign resulted in the College raising over $9.5 million to help strengthen its financial future. This is a true example of how a small team with limited resources was able to leverage technology and existing partnerships to expand their reach to obtain new donors. 

How Great Fundraisers Become Great Managers 

Speakers: Jeff Johnson, Development Resources, inc.; Nick Langridge, James Madison University; Cynthia Cline, Director of Strategic Gifts, James Madison University

Congratulations on exceeding your fundraising goals; you're being promoted to manager! Unfortunately, this is too often the first line in a managerial horror story that ends "they were such a major gift officer; what happened?" In this session, participants will learn from a national executive search consultant working in higher education and a chief fundraising officer at a major university what it means for good fundraisers to move into management roles. Through real cases, the audience will explore how they would address specific situations with their staff, discuss what really happened, and look at what could/should be done—leaving with a better understanding of how the characteristics of good fundraisers can be sustained in effective management styles. 

An Integrated Approach to Storytelling 

Speakers: Nancy M. Spitler, Clemson University; Sara Ann Hutto, Clemson University; Chris Waldrop, Clemson University 

Almost all of our institutions publish a magazine with engaging and inspiring stories of our institution and our alumni. But do we make sure those stories reach as broad an audience as possible using multiple platforms? We'll take a look at how Clemson has moved from print to an integrated approach of print, web, video, email and social media, as well as test mailing to targeted groups of inactive alumni. Nancy Spitler, managing editor, Sara Ann Hutto, assistant editor, and Chris Waldrop, art director will provide ideas for specific ways you can broaden the reach of your own alumni magazine. 

Emotionally Intelligent Fundraising 

Speaker: James R. Wasliewski, Virginia Commonwealth University 

As fundraisers, we are storytellers, connectors and relators. We also guide, understand and listen. The underlying concept with each of these is applying and using emotional intelligence. Are you fundraiser with a high level of EQ? Do you understand the importance and use of recognition, awareness and management of your own emotions as well as those we interact with frequently? In this session, we will explore and discuss EQ and practice techniques to incorporate EQ elements to elevate your fundraising skills to the next level. 

Expressing Gratitude, Communicating Impact, Celebrating Philanthropy 

Speaker: Jerry F. Smith, J.F. Smith Group; John D. Crawford, Valdosta State University 

Attendees will learn the importance of a formalized stewardship plan. They will learn how such a plan can impact the life cycle of a donor. And they will find practical examples of stewardship that will encourage the donor to give increasingly generous gifts from someone who has been in the fund-raising business for over 28 years. 

Higher-Ed Content Governance 101: How to Manage Your Digital Identity 

Speakers: Andrew Buck, Mighty Citizen; Jennie Powers, Auburn University 

Universities have a content problem: There’s too much of it, owned by too many stakeholders, and nobody knows how to manage all of it at once. But there’s a solution. A concrete, detailed content governance strategy will ensure that every piece of content your university puts online—website, email, social media, etc.—is part of a larger, clearly managed system. In this lively session—based on two decades of managing enormous, decentralized institutions’ digital identities—we’ll explore how to formulate a content governance plan. 

How to Build Successful Pathways Through Development Collaboration

Speakers: Rebekah Lowry, Robeson Community College; Lisa Hunt, Robeson Community College 

At the forefront of this presentation, the audience will take away information about how to form relationships with industry partners to identify the workforce needs within their service area, how to build relationships with funders to bring much-needed resources to their perspective campuses, and how to build sustainable relationships with donors to ensure future and continued support of student success. " 

Implementing a Successful Day of Giving at HBCUs 

Industry Trends and Best Practices – Vendor Panel 

Facilitator: Michelle R. Hussey, The University of Alabama at Birmingham 

IRS Rules and Regulations - What You Don't Know Might Hurt You! 

Speakers: John Taylor, John H. Taylor Consulting, LLC; Deborah S. Jordan, James Madison University 

This session will cover some of the new issues raised by Congress. This will include an update on the latest tax bill, including the impact on charitable giving due to the increase in the standard deduction. We will also explore what revocation of the 80/20 rule pertaining to seating priority means for athletics – and all other seating applications. We will then look at such topics as quid pro quo and gift dates, and a tiny bit on donor-advised funds and private (family) foundations (there is a separate session on these!). There will be discussions on donor control, scholarships, common gift myths, auctions, sponsorships, and special events. And we will conclude with an exciting discussion of IRS non-compliance penalties! 

Know Your Audience Better Than They Know Themselves 

Speaker: Claire Stewart, University of West Florida 

Marketers are constantly asking "Who is the audience for this project?" Knowing your unique audience for every project allows you to make better decisions in planning, speak to your audience's most urgent needs and successfully connect with your audience to create more impactful results. In this session, we will be diving into the world of audience personas by learning how to make personas and how to use them to create the best marketing and communications strategy possible. Claire Stewart, Director of Communications and Special Projects at the University of West Florida has worked in marketing and communications for the last ten years and has worked extensively to create personas for various brands and organizations. 

Lessons learned from our 1st Day of Giving: $13.6+M, 10,800+ Gifts & 6,700+ Donors 

Speakers: Adam Compton, North Carolina State University; Jeff Baynham, NC State University; Amber Turner, State of Wow; Kate Pottschmidt, State of Wow

Our presentation will focus on three areas to help you launch or improve your Day of Giving:

1. Counting and Data: The data we used to drive our success and how you can build a model that meets your goals.
2. Gamification: Using a gamification model to drive gifts at all levels from Annual Gifts to Major Gifts resulting in more gifts from more people.
3. Social Media and Marketing: Using digital marketing best practices to reach your constituencies and drive them to take part in your day. 

Managing Up In the Millennial Age 

Speaker: DeShanna Brown, Edward Waters College; Reshunda L. Mahone, Virginia State University 

The lead panelist, a Gen X-er and Millennial, will encourage and motivate participants to engage in intellectual discourse related to the emergence of millennial leaders and the changes in the demographics of the workforce as Baby Boomers continue to retire, in particular at HBCUs. As a result of engaging in a discussion with the panel, participants will learn:

• Strategies for working with the millennial executive (or aspiring leader), while understanding collaboration and innovation being the key priorities in the minds of millennial leaders.
• Unique opportunities and strategies to leveraging technology when working with a millennial executive.
• The role of the “other executive unicorn” and how they play a critical part in the success of the team and organization.
• Understand the “value” of generational diversity in organizations. 

People Are More Important Than Dollars 

Speaker: Thomas Wood, Mount Pisgah Christian School 

Too many organizations continue to measure the success of their advancement officers based solely on the amount of funds raised. Using a single measurement to determine job performance forces your staff to short change the process of engagement and stewardship. Instead, they will put their energy into chasing gifts, rather than developing long-term supporters. That approach is not only shortsighted for the organization, it is why this presenter believes we see so much burnout and high turnover in our industry and why fewer college graduates are choosing this field as a career choice. However, a new generation of supporters/consumers is emerging and they have a very different approach to philanthropy, requiring organizations and fundraisers to rethink the fundamentals of what we do and how we engage our supporters.
During this session attendees will:

1. Consider the advancement office as an educational department of your organization.
2. Evaluate your role and rediscover your purpose and passion.
3. Review data from recent studies showing a changing view of philanthropy among generations.
4. Learn how a preschool song can help you create a donor-centric program for engaging families.
5. Look at examples of activity reporting using the balanced scorecard method.

Private Label Donor Advised Funds - building lifelong donor engagement 

Speaker: Susan W. Lane, Stetson University 

An interactive session where attendees will learn how universities and colleges can use private label donor-advised funds to increase giving, engagement, and loyalty. Will cover the basics of DAFs, how private label vendors partner with institutions and the costs, specific strategies and how to evaluate whether a private label DAF is right for an institution, including the benefits to donors and the particulars about implementation, marketing, and donor/alumni outreach. Led by Susan Lane, seasoned fundraising executive experienced as Assistant Vice President of Development for Florida International University, Chief Development Officer at Michigan State University College of Medicine and Planned Giving Vice President for Fidelity Charitable, the nation’s leading donor-advised fund, consultant for Growfund, a private label donor-advised fund and fundraising executive for American Cancer Society and Easter Seals. Printed resource materials will be provided to attendees that outline how to evaluate and implement a private label donor-advised fund and a list of vendor resources. 

Redesigning the Recent Grad Experience 

Speaker: Emily M. Saunders, University of Richmond 

We know that in order to encourage a lifetime of engagement, it is ideal to captivate our alumni from the day they graduate- or even before that special day. But how do we accomplish this, when our recent grads are facing immense life changes, moving daily, and being pulled in so many different post-grad directions? Looking to increase recent grad participation, both in terms of event attendance and annual giving, as part of your engagement strategy? This session is for you! 

Staying in the Game: How Senior Pros Can Remain Fresh, Relevant and Productive 

Speaker: Marc C. Whitt, University of Kentucky 

Story Telling Through Donor Events 

Speaker: Alba Carreras-Vazquez, University of Miami; Montserrat M. Fisher, University of Miami 

In this session, learn to re-imagine your donor events and create experiences that are unique, memorable, and move the needle on your philanthropic goals. From groundbreaking ceremonies to building dedications, the Strategic Events team at the University of Miami brings the “why” to life. Through examples, such as the staging of an emergency at the newly dedicated simulation hospital, the team illustrates how to leverage distinctive elements of the donor’s gift to tell a compelling story. Learn how engaging students, alumni, and community partners can maximize your resources, tap into your creative message, take your audience on a journey—and still bring you in under budget! 

Strategic Futuring: Developing Powerful and Empowered Alumni Affinity Networks 

Speaker: Deidra Smith, Director of Alumni Engagement, Elon University 

This session will be an interactive presentation that will focus on how Elon University developed and implemented a highly successful affinity network program that connected alumni with common interests and backgrounds to reach, communicate with, effectively engage and celebrate alumni of various identities. Join Deidra Smith, Director of Alumni Engagement as she provides a step by step action plan to develop, engage, and empower alumni affinity networks at your university.

Faculty and Fundraising: WHY?!, What, When, How? & Suggestions for Best Practices 

Speaker: Elizabeth Kozak, University of Georgia 

This presentation focuses on the role that faculty members play in fundraising efforts at institutions. We will discuss real-life scenarios of faculty members in a variety of disciplines and the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for development officers who utilize faculty members (or want to) to meet their development goals. This will be helpful and applicable for fundraisers housed both centrally and in schools, colleges, or units. Elizabeth Kozak is a Ph.D. candidate and director of development at the University of Georgia. 

When the Storm Hits: How to Pick Up the Pieces When the Sky Falls 

Speakers: Buffy Lockette, Jacksonville State University; Sydney Jones-Wright, Jacksonville State University 

In this case study, participants will hear a first-hand account from a small PR team on how to manage a disaster using no extra budget or resources. Guests will learn four tips no one tells you in disaster training, basic survival tips for the PR team, and why you should throw out your complicated crisis communication plan and keep it simple.  

The Corner Office: The Journey to Becoming a Vice President (Coach's Corner)

Focus Area: Career Mapping

Want to grow professionally? Then you're going to need more than leadership skills to succeed. Come discuss various paths to the leadership seat and how to advance in philanthropy. Hear from leaders on what they have learned and how you can position yourself for success.

Speaker: TBD

Networking and Meet-Ups

CASE After Dark

Meet-Ups 

Includes breakfast.

All Aboard: On-Boarding & Training to Fulfill AND Retain Your Team (Coach's Corner)

Focus Area: Training and Retention

First impressions matter and good on-boarding can set the tone for a new employee's experience for the long-term. Whether you have a large or small advancement team, this session will discuss practical strategies on how to onboard and train your advancement shop.

Speakers: Reid Ricciardi, Executive Director of Talent Management, North Carolina State University; Kathleen Loehr, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group

Tuesday Plenary

Terry Lyles, The "Stress Coach"

Terry Lyles’ work is focused on teaching groups of all ages how to navigate life’s storms and difficult situations through stress utilization and work/life balance training. Terry has spent his life measuring and studying human performance. He holds a Ph.D. in psychology, has conducted extensive research in sports science and is an expert in biotelemetry and psycho-telemetry.

Career Pathways Exchange: Engage Alumni to Create Successful Career Programming 

Speakers: Beth Zielinski, Jack Kent Cooke Foundation; Natalie Rodriguez Jansorn, Jack Kent Cooke Foundation 

The trend of combining Career Services and Alumni offices is widening. How can we increase alumni engagement and develop strong career development programming for a diverse, underserved population? Hear how one alumni engagement team tackled this area and reached 10% participation from its alumni community. Then begin to ignite your own critical action programming. 

Change Management & Change Leadership: a $300M Case Study 

Speaker: Jennifer Conley, Carleton University 

Jennifer Conley (MPNL, CFRE) will review the leading and emerging academic research highlighted in Carleton University's Masters of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership program concerning change management and change leadership and how this research can be distilled into 5 key principles for consideration. How these principles were strategically applied to the challenges and opportunities of the University's $300M Campaign will demonstrate the unique value of a "pracademic" approach to leadership in Higher Education.

Dedication, Determination & Discipline: The 3 D’s of Rebuilding & Reorganization 

Speakers: Racheal Banks, Spring Hill College; Mary McDonald, Spring Hill College 

Although Spring Hill College has experienced high turnover in the President's Office and the Development and Alumni Relations Office, the current leadership team has been able to create stability and rebuild the development and alumni relations office through dedication, determination and discipline. The Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations and Assistant Vice President for Development will present Spring Hill College's case study in a lecture and discussion format. The presentation will cover how to prioritize when the need for change exists in every aspect of advancement, how to implement major changes in a systematic manner, and how to incorporate training, professional development, and create partnerships in a previously unreceptive culture. 

Effect of Leadership Style on Fundraiser Performance: Research Results Revealed 

Speaker: Carrie M. Collins, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine 

Attracting and retaining high-performing gift officers (GOs) is a critical function of any chief development officer (CDO). A quantitative research study was conducted to determine whether there were intrinsic factors contributing to GO performance and/or whether external forces, particularly the CDO's leadership style, impact performance. This study also sought to shed light on the type of CDO who would be best suited to develop and lead high-performers. The author, a CDO herself, reveals the analysis of the CDO/GO relationship and provides practical guidance to CDOs for leading GOs to maximum performance. 

Flying Solo: The Experiences of African American Development Officers at PWIs 

Speaker: Anthony L. Heaven, University of Mississippi 

This presentation will look at the experiences of African American development officers, and how we can use those experiences to inform practices and create more supportive/inclusive offices. It will be presented in two sections: The experiences of African American frontline fundraisers as articulated in my research study; and recommendations for institutions and organizations on how to create more supportive spaces for diverse gift officers.

Generational Fundraising: Building a 2020 Strategy to Meet Millenials Where They Are 

Speakers: Heather Kopec, Virginia Tech; Stephen Milleson, Virginia Tech 

We'll cover the fundamentals of generational marketing and learn how to apply best practices to take fundraising strategies and campaigns for young alumni to the next level. Virginia Tech is growing alumni participation and leading the way thanks to the adoption of generational behavior through marketing, donor relations, and most importantly in annual giving. You'll leave the session with tools and an understanding of how to audit your own program and implement a strategy bespoke to your organization and culture.

How to Create Donor Surveys That Improve Your Fundraising 

Speakers: Rachel Clemens, Mighty Citizen; Jennifer Russ, Florida Atlantic University

If you don’t regularly survey your target audiences, your fundraising efforts are merely educated guesses. And if your surveys aren’t carefully crafted, you’ll end up receiving misleading data. But done well, surveys can empower you with real, actionable, and surprising insights into what your current and prospective donors do, think, and need. In this session, we’ll examine all of the components of a great donor survey project—including how to build it, deploy it, and analyze the results. 

"Law & Order: Alumni Relations Unit" – Resolving Issues & Improving Our Work 

Speaker: Rhonda Minton, Lipscomb University 

A unique perspective on alumni relations using lessons learned from the long-running television series “Law & Order: SVU.” Come prepared to participate in an entertaining discussion that covers topics ranging from sharing alumni profiles (“These are their stories.”), tracking down lost alumni (“Where was their last known location?”) to preparing for the unexpected (“Call a bus!”). Leave with idea leads and tactics to help your own Alumni Relations Unit resolve issues and enhance its work. Rhonda Minton, session presenter, has spent more than 20 years working in alumni relations at public and private universities and continues to focus on learning ways to enhance the alumni experience at her institution. 

Mo Money, Mo Problems 

Speakers: Lynne M. Wester, Donor Relations Guru; Jan McGuire, Auburn University 

You want a big transformational gift? Great, what happens when it goes wrong? Open any fundraising news source and you'll find stories guaranteed to give you nightmares! We hear about nonprofits that have failed to abide by a donor's intent, which can lead to lawsuits, bad press, and potential fines, as well as donors whose affiliation with our institution may no longer be a positive one. "It's like the more money we come across The more problems we see" - The Notorious B.I.G., "Mo' Money, Mo' Problems" What is our obligation and what happens if we do find ourselves on the 11 o'clock news? What is the role donor relations plays in the fundraising cycle and how do we let our partners know they're wading into dangerous waters? How do we not become blinded by the money and when we see something amiss ensure we say something? Let's wade through these somewhat murky waters of big gifts and the complicated entanglements we get our organizations into when we accept them. 

Show—Not Just Tell: Using Student Storytelling to Bring Your Brand to Life 

Speakers: Kara Klein, Citadel; Melissa Nenninger; Citadel 

90% of Gen Z spends at least one hour a day watching videos on their smartphones. In this session, you will learn how to highlight the attributes that make your college unique through multimedia and integrated marketing approach that features video as a centerpiece. We will help you help your students tell their own compelling and authentic stories that bring your brand to life. 

Social Media Metrics from Scratch 

Speakers: Kalena Stull, University of Georgia; Leslie Colvin, University of Georgia 

Data rules but it can be unruly. With expensive tools and countless data points, it can be a challenge to figure out what to report and where to start. Our UGA team will show you how to build a free monthly dashboard and develop a regular reporting rhythm so you can harness the power of social media data to build on your digital strategy. 

Spread a Culture of Philanthropy: How Artificial Intelligence Engages Humanity 

Speakers: Chris Tobin, College of Charleston; Adam Marte, Gravyty 

In this informative session, Chris Tobin and Adam Martel will share their findings on spreading a culture of philanthropy across the College of Charleston with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Rather than seed the audience with an aspirational vision, the two will look back to more than a year's worth of work and data to show precisely how organizations can expand their reach in sustainable ways. 

Starting from Scratch: Re-Building the Culture of Philanthropy 

Speaker: Christa Newkirk, Central Piedmont Community College 

This session will share how Central Piedmont Community College is rebuilding its alumni program through a new approach that includes targeted efforts to persons who were in leadership positions or who have participated in special cohorts. Key takeaways include establishing internal relationships, uncovering what already exists, developing clear ways to engage and being intentional with communications.

The 40 Under 40 Difference: Engaging and Re-Engaging Young Alumni at HBCUs 

Speakers: TBD

40 Under 40 lists have been popping up all across the country in communities, magazines, affinity groups and in higher education. This trend has been picking up steam in general, but in higher education, these lists have been used as a way to engage and re-engage alumni with the institution. It has become a great way to train alumni of the expectation to provide their time, talent and treasures back to the Institution. This session will explore how a 40 Under 40 honoree program can be used to actively engage and re-engage alumni with the institution, its fundraising and alumni association. 

The Very Basics of Fundraising Analytics 

Speaker: Andrew Wilson, University of Tennessee at Martin 

Analytics is now a tool that is used in all facets of advancement. If a department is not using this tool now, they are behind and are missing a key element in moving their program forward. This basic session/workshop will:

1. Give a basic understanding of analytics
2. Why it is important for advancement professionals
3. Allow participants to develop a model and implement it immediately 

Under Pressure Strategies on Engaging Donors for State Appropriation Projects 

Speakers: Amanda Fabrizio-Grzesik, Tennessee Technological University; Karlene N. Jennings, UNC - Greensboro; Michael C. Webb, East Tennessee State University 

We are always grateful for our state governments for providing funding for new buildings, renovations, and program development. Unfortunately, the days of state governments committing to cover 100% of capital project costs are dwindling. Many states are now requiring universities to cover a portion of the cost of new buildings through private philanthropy. In this session, we will discuss ideas, strategies, and visit tips to raise the visibility for such projects, gain donor interest, and ultimately secure the necessary support for such projects.  

Using Metrics to Optimize Portfolio Management and Maximize Fundraising 

Speaker: TBD

The session will explore the use of metrics-based system to establish goals, manage prospects, and maximize fundraising with limited resources in small shop. Raising major gifts requires focus on hot prospects in a timely manner. A well-designed portfolio and moves management system provides this focus and a tracking mechanism to aid in institutional memory. The session will present the steps to create a streamlined, dynamic portfolio with a 100% yield potential, so that the division can increase their annual goal based on reliable information related to capacity, affinity, inclination and a proposal pipeline. 

Watch Out For That Phish! How To Avoid Being Phishing Bait! 

Speaker: Dwight D. Dozier, CIO, Georgia Tech Foundation 

Avoiding the pitfalls of phishing. 

Working With A Professional Designer 

Speaker: Roy Cordel, University of Arkansas; Erica Endicott, Georgia Institute of Technology 

Have you ever struggled to communicate with the most mysterious of all staff – the graphic designer? What do they need to know? What can you expect in return? Two experienced designers will give insight into the care and feeding of your visual communication staff, with guaranteed results. 

Alumni Relations and Annual Giving: Two Sides of the Same Coin 

Speaker: Matt Borden, University of Tennessee at Martin 

With a small advancement staff at UT Martin, many staff members serve multiple roles within the team. Both alumni and annual giving staff are intertwined to increase the impact of both programs. Join us as we discuss the strategy that helps our two programs succeed by partnering together for mutually beneficial results. 

Best Practices for Community Colleges 

Speakers: Karen Mitchell, Volunteer State Community College; Alison Muncy, Volunteer State Community College

Do you need help with raising money? Would you like to know what your counterparts are doing? This session will highlight key issues for Community Colleges with a roundtable discussion for best practices in the areas of special events, alumni relations/recruitment, board retention/recruitment and donor retention/recruitment. 

Building a High-Performing Alumni Board 

Speakers: Karen Monteleone, University of Central Florida; Danielle Sarris, University of Central Florida 

Staff and volunteer leadership turnover can leave your board stagnant and unengaged with the institution’s mission. This session will address short-term, mid-term, and long-term strategies to transform your board to a high-performing, diverse group of volunteers who are committed to the institution and understand their role as board members. The session will also address the role of strategic partnerships and structures with other institutional boards and advisory councils. 

Creating a Talent Pipeline Through Student Internships 

Speakers: Mary McDonald, Spring Hill College; Racheal Banks, Spring Hill College 

This session will cover why Spring Hill College created a Development and Alumni Relations internship in early 2019, how students were selected, how the students work with our office, and the outcomes thus far.
Attendees can take our experience creating and implementing this internship program and replicate it on their campus, training a stronger workforce for our profession. 

Developing a Development Team 

Speakers: Stuart Sullivan, Graham-Pelton; Aaron Fetrow, Roanoke College

Schools are suffering because of the dual issues of turnover and high demand yet low supply, with 90% of development directors reporting that turnover was an issue at their organization, 84% of organizations having no formal retention strategy, the number of fundraising jobs expected to grow 15% by 2026 (far outpacing average job growth), and most major gift officers received at least 3 recruiting contacts within the last year. This talk will reveal seemingly counterintuitive and unexpected details about industry recruitment and retention, specific dilemmas that schools face, societal expectations around leadership (which explains why not-so-great managers proliferate!), and the ways we can “start a movement” by truly knowing your players—and knowing yourself. The talk will conclude with 3-4 case studies and the actionable items derived from them, which include ways to build a case for this thoughtful talent management to your leadership, effective recruitment (and helping colleagues leave the institution), the ways teams can communicate with each other using the language of psychometric assessments and understanding natural preferences and tendencies. 

Digitally Designed Pitching: Maximizing Digital Platforms For Media Relations 

Speakers: Sunni B. Brown, University of Richmond; Lindsey R. Campbell, University of Richmond 

Are you struggling to get your campus experts quoted in the media? Do you feel like your story pitching efforts are at a stalemate? The University of Richmond media relations team shares how their digital pitching strategy has cut through the clutter, leading to national media opportunities, including having expert quotes lifted straight from Twitter into news stories. During this session, the team will share how digital platforms, including social media and an online newsroom, can be strategically designed to showcase campus expertise, catch the attention of reporters, and land national media opportunities. 

Donor Experience, DX Unlocks the Future of your Fundraising Relationships 

Speakers: Lynne M. Wester, Donor Relations Guru; Jan McGuire, Auburn University 

Put yourself in the donor’s shoes. They don’t want another lapel pin or bumper sticker. They want to know they make a difference to your institution and they are valued. Donor appreciation is not expensive, but neglecting it can be. Research shows that it is seven times more expensive to acquire a new donor that to keep the one you have. The solution is simple: put the donor first, consume yourself with the DX, their experience, not yours. 

Effective Programming for Student Philanthropy 

Speaker: Connor K. Smith, North Carolina State University

The purpose of this presentation is to learn how you and your campus can effectively work to develop a culture of student philanthropy through departmental and university-wide programming efforts. Stop by to learn more about the importance of philanthropic programming and student leadership development, specifically as it relates to the role they play in working to create a culture of philanthropy on college campuses. Case studies for this presentation will analyze student philanthropy events held both at the University of Georgia and Virginia Commonwealth University within the last year. 

Engagement + Revenue = Peer to Peer Fundraising 

Speakers: Katrina VanHuss, Turnkey P2P; Jackie Collier, Berea College

Peer to peer fundraising is relatively new to higher education though it has been in use by major nonprofits for many years as a major contributor to revenue and new donor acquisition. As traditional means of donor acquisition fail, peer to peer has morphed into the leading revenue positive donor acquisition tool available. This interactive session will cover the psychology and best practices of peer to peer fundraising and is led by Katrina VanHuss, CEO Turnkey. The session will help you decide whether peer to peer is right for your organization in terms of ability to deploy and ROI, and how to approach if peer to peer is in your future.

Five Lessons Fundraisers Can Learn from Sales Executives 

Speakers: Adam Fentress, University of Virginia; Molly Hall, EverTrue 

Let's look at what frontline fundraisers can learn from the for-profit sales world. Sales executive-turned-fundraiser Adam Fentress and longtime sales leader Molly Hall will tackle how fundraisers can be more pipeline-driven, create urgency, and continually learn as they help guide prospects to major gifts. Let’s learn how to be more efficient and effective frontline development officers, together. 

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner In 3D 

Speakers: Altony Lee, Florida Gulf Coast University; Rochelle Jackson, Florida Gulf Coast University 

Against the backdrop of today's increasingly multicultural society, are development officers. Too often the experience of the diverse fundraising professional can best be described as “get comfortable being uncomfortable.” In addition to managing a full portfolio of donors, we are oftentimes tasked with closing gifts, represent the office on campus committees and attend social functions with diverse constituents. 

"I Don't Work in Pajamas" – Pros, Cons, and Myths about Working Remotely (Coach's Corner) 

Focus Area: Talent Managers/Leaders

Remote work is on the rise, especially in advancement. We will discuss the pros and cons of being a remote professional, as well as the misconceptions. We also will discuss how to manage remote colleagues. Does it work? How can I better manage my team?

Speakers: Caprice Bragg, Vice President for Board Relations and Strategic Planning, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts; Floyd Akins, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group

Inside the Mind of a High Net Worth Donor 

Speakers: Aaron Conley, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis; Spencer Sealy, Andrew College; Vicki Pugh, Palm Beach Atlantic University 

Extensive research findings exist that tells us what motivates the wealthy to give. But how many major gift fundraisers are effectively applying this knowledge? Three panelists, all with vice president-level experience, will summarize key research findings and share examples of real gifts that were raised by first understanding what mattered to donors, rather than focusing on meeting institutional needs. 

Institutional Advancement - It's Everyone's Role 

Speakers: Katie Shultz, St. Petersburg College; Jesse Turtle, St. Petersburg College; Susan Kubik, eAdvancement Consulting 

True resource development requires a commitment from every level within an organization and an acceptance that institutional advancement is everyone’s ‘job’ from the President to the faculty. But how do you get there? St. Petersburg College (SPC) started with a full analysis of its Foundation, which resulted in a restructured division, enhanced vision, and transformed mindsets. This session will share varied perspective including from the outside consultant, new division leader, and one of the staff members realigned under the new structured. Whether you are looking to fully restructure or need to shift the perceptions of a single individual within the development process, this session will provide usable strategies and lessons learned.

Joined by Success Through Good Information 

Speaker: Amy Bihl, University of Virginia 

A new data and systems department is moving the University of Virginia Alumni Association to better and more consistent answers through cooperation, documentation and training. Amy Bihl is an information professional with more than twenty years of experience working hand in hand with many types of business working to first understand business procedures then work together to use computers and data to provide solutions.
She would like to encourage you to be creative with what you want to report or visualize and be intentional in describing your ideas and be open to conversations about reaching goals. Don't presuppose you know how to get the answers; start with the questions.

Mike's Maxims: Guiding Principles for Fundraising 

Speaker: Michael J. Morsberger, University of Central Florida 

In his more than 30 year career, Mike Morsberger, CFRE has worked in all types and sizes of development shops. Regardless of the organization, however, he has found that there are a set of guiding principles that have stood the test of time and can be helpful reminders for both newbies and veteran fundraisers. Mike prefers an interactive approach, and will use a brief PowerPoint to showcase and stir conversations around the lessons he has learned throughout his career. Attendees will be provided a one-page takeaway with Mike's Maxims, to be shared with colleagues and volunteers who may need the occasional reminder about the best (and worst) approaches to fundraising. 

Rethinking Planned Giving for Greater Results 

Speaker: Elizabeth M. Mobley, Furman University 

Attendees will learn how to enhance their planned giving programs by rethinking their audience, their message, and their methods. By expanding the prospect pool, tailoring messaging to better suit those prospects, and engaging in a more proactive and department-wide planned giving efforts, any size shop can improve results and create a larger impact on the future of their organization. We will share data and best practices to support the changes we have implemented in our own program, along with the results we have seen. 

Using Language & Data Visualization to Communicate the Value of your Social Media 

Speakers: Nanfei Liu, James Madison Univerisity; Trey Secrist, James Madison University 

You use social media, now what? Join the social media manager and content coordinator of the "number one ranked university in the country" in a discussion on navigating and translating social metrics. Walk away with tools on how to provide meaningful data insights via quarterly reports and graphical interpretations. This session will be focused on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter. 

What Have I Gotten Myself Into? The Ins & Outs of Donor-Advised Funds, Etc. 

Speaker: John Taylor, John H. Taylor Consulting, LLC 

This session will look at issues pertaining to giving through donor-advised funds, and the related issues for gifts from private (family) foundations. We will analyze the curious IRS Notice 2017-73 applying to DAFs, and dive deeper into the broader issue of pledges (enforceable, conditional, unenforceable – whatever!) being satisfied through DAFs and private foundations. Coupled with this, we will discuss donor benefits associated with gifts through these mechanisms and overall issues pertaining to quid pro quos.  

When Lightning Strikes: How Your Viral Video Can Spark Media Attention 

Speaker: Wesley D. Sumner,  Florida Institute of Technology 

This session will highlight strategies for creating compelling video content that not only drives social media interaction but is also useful for mainstream media attention. In the Florida Tech case study, a lightning research video that began as a campus community email grew into a viral video shared extensively on social media and ultimately led to a CBS Evening News story, as well as coverage on other major media outlets.

Awards Luncheon

Meet-Ups

Breathing New Light In To Signature Events: How to Engage Alumni, New and Old 

Speaker: Olivia Wolfson, University of Richmond 

Signature Campus Events are crucial in the world of Alumni Relations. Identifying ways to engage a broad alumni population is becoming very important and also very difficult. How do we ensure we are meeting the needs of very different age groups and populations through signature events, with the goal of maximum participation across our alumni population? At the University of Richmond, the Alumni Relations team decided it was time to breathe new light into our signature events- specifically Homecoming and Reunion Weekends. We took 3 events from our campus weekends, and transformed them. This session will describe the full cycle and creative ways in which we brought new “light” to the events. From budgeting, messaging, and event promotion-this session will cover it all. Olivia Wolfson, Associate Director of Campus Events at The University of Richmond will present this session. If you are interested in building or restructuring your approach to signature events, this session is for you!  

But I'm Just a [Insert Job Title]: Lessons from a non Advancement Academic Leader 

Speaker: John-Bauer Graham, Jacksonville State University 

This session details how one Academic Dean at a rural, regional state school with no prior training or education in advancement, navigated the waters of a University mandate for Dean's to become more involved in development and advancement. The speaker is a librarian, professor and dean that has 15 years in academic leadership at the department head and dean's level. Attendees will take away from the session how to best use the lessons learned from an "outsider looking in" to design and plot their own programs and courses. 

Visual Data Storytelling as the New Brand Differentiator

Speaker: Joshua Preston, College of Computing, Georgia Tech

Data can provide new, powerful ways to engage audiences. Interactive data visualizations—what journalists often use in the news world—are an untapped opportunity to capture the imagination of your university community in an entirely new way. They give audiences deeper levels of engagement by allowing people to find the story in the data that they care about. Learn how to distinguish your institution or programs beyond the same annual benchmarks by adding an interactive graphic that can create 'stickier' audiences, better retention of information by readers, and the coveted chance for content to go viral.

Dealing with the 3 Dimensions of Data - Management, Analysis, and Governance 

Speaker: Christopher Cannon, Zuri Group; Dwight Dozier, Chief Information Officer, Georgia Tech Foundation

Learn how to establish a baseline of "Truth" about an organization's data. This is the first step toward creating data governance. Once effective governance is in place, new management techniques, like master data management and AI, can be explored. The ultimate result of this session will be a clear path to an optimized strategic information management environment. 

Employee Retention: Strategies for Retaining Top Talent 

Speaker: Jeff Ulmer, Stetson University 

We will examine tried and true talent management practices for retaining top talent.

Engaging Diverse Audiences (Coach's Corner) 

Focus Areas: Marketing; Communications; Alumni Relations

As members of colleges and universities with diverse students, alumni, staff, and local communities, how do we engage ALL of our constituents in meaningful ways? We will discuss creating alumni affinity groups, reexamining fundraising "best practices" that were designed with male donors in mind, and assessing inclusion in our marketing strategies.

Speakers: Erica Arroyo, Associate Vice President, Engagement, University of Miami; Colleen Flynn, Marketing Manager, Aspen Leadership Group

How to Succeed with Remote Employees 

Speakers: Cassie Hunt, Washington and Lee University; Kenny Melvin, Washington and Lee University 

In this session, we will present examples of where we have succeeded—and failed—in working with remote employees. Cassie Hunt has worked full-time remotely for two universities and a consulting firm over the course of six years, and currently works remotely two days a week. She manages a team with part-time remote staff. Kenny Melvin is a full-time remote gift officer. 

Inclusion Councils: Building an Inclusive Environment (Coach's Corner) 

Focus Area: Diversity and Recruitment

How do we embrace all forms of diversity and inclusion, both from within advancement and externally (volunteer engagement + philanthropically)? If you have or thinking about forming an employee resource group within advancement (i.e., Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Inclusion Council, Affinity Groups), then this session is for you. We will discuss the different types of committee models, roles and responsibilities, goals, and ways in which you can successfully advance your diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Speakers: Angelique Grant, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group; Inclusion Council Members from various institutions across District III

Maximizing Leadership Weekend 

Speaker: Keith Cottrell, Florida State University Alumni Association

The content and logistical planning process, execution of and gathering of feedback on our annual Leadership Weekend will be covered via Prezi or PowerPoint. Florida State Alumni Association’s Director of Seminole Clubs Keith Cottrell would present on how he and his team of four’s past experiences in having helped shape the current popular version of Leadership Weekend that sees more than 75 club leaders for around the country attend each year. Takeaways being different for conference attendees, the goal of the presentation will be to help enhance what is already successful for other schools and provide a base foundation for those looking to start or revamp parts of their own Leadership Weekends. 

Prospect Prioritization - Building A Better Portfolio 

Speakers: Nick Foster, University of Alabama; Hawken Brackett, University of Alabama; Jenny Pyle, University of Alabama 

Development Officer’s portfolios are often inherited from predecessors, constructed in a piece-meal fashion, or do not contain the best prospects. These all contribute to frustrations for Development Officers and decreased fundraising productivity. A sub-unit of The University of Alabama’s (UA) Division of Advancement designed and tested a process for prospect identification and qualification that is now being implemented at the Division level. The process is based on a foundation of collaborative brainstorming, strategic planning, and a commitment to excellence, this story will offer tangible lessons that will equip you to adopt a similar process to the context of your organization. This session, as presented by UA’s Executive Director of Development of Colleges & Schools, Director of Development for the College of Communication & Information Sciences, and Director of Prospect Management, will tell the design and implementation story of this wiser process for prospect identification and qualification. 

Surviving and Thriving as a Solo Communicator

Speaker: Allison Elliott-Shannon, University of Kentucky College of Public Health 

Communicator, party of one? There’s room at the table for you. This session will cover:

• Finding allies and gaining the trust of faculty and administrators.
• Getting and keeping a seat at the leadership table – especially if you’re the first person in the job.
• Making contacts outside your organization for advice, support, and collaboration.
• Proving your worth, demonstrating return on investment, and asking for the resources you need.

Real Talk: Debunking the Misconception of HBCU Fundraising 

Speaker: Reshunda L. Mahone, Virginia State University 

With limited resource, increase demand on advancement, and a national conversation about access and affordability, HBCU's face a daunting tasks of increasing their philanthropic capacity in creative ways. This interactive session will debunk many of the myths, misconceptions, and challenges of HBCU fundraising. Using relevant research and practical applications, attendees will learn how HBCU's are advancing in spite of these challenges and how you can grow your philanthropic capacity at your HBCU no matter your role or function. 

Reclaim Our Neighborhoods: Using a Regional Team Structure to Drive a New Engagement Model

Speakers: Marche Simpson, Emory University; Nicole Holubar Walker, Emory University 

Join Emory University’s Atlanta Regional Alumni Engagement Officers for a presentation looking back on its first year creating, establishing, and executing a new alumni engagement model in their local community. Attendees will be able to learn from the experience of the Atlanta team, and will walk away with functional tips on how to leverage relationships with alumni, volunteer leadership, community leaders, and campus partners to create a well-rounded and successful local strategy.

Small Shop, Living in a Large Shop Reality 

Speakers: Julie Ricciardi, Saint Mary's School; Kenny Melvin, Washington and Lee; Rhonda Minton, Lipscomb University 

Tips on how to identify where you are getting stuck in time inefficiencies, ideas on how to make the most of your institution and budget to offer extensive experience from data to technology. Speakers collectively have 50 years of experience in small units within big institutions or small institutions where the expectation is to operate as large aspirant schools without the resources or bandwidth. Walk away with a new daily plan and strategic focus for future work. Determine three areas to give up, change, or enhance for increased return on time investment. 

Take Your Digital Philanthropy from Good to Great 

Speaker: Lauren M. King, University of North Carolina Wilmington

With more than half of UNCW's alumni population graduating in the last ten years. UNCW embraced digital philanthropy initiatives as a way to engage its students and alumni in philanthropy. UNCW's Annual Giving team will share its tried and tested strategies for digital initiatives that will help take your program from good to great! Learn how you can increase success for initiatives like your giving day challenge, crowdfunding, student philanthropy program and texting campaigns. 

The 1961 Club: A CASE Study for Black Alumni Philanthropy and Engagement 

Speakers: Kethia Gates, University of Georgia; Realenn Watters, University of Georgia 

What happens when an institution acknowledges its difficult past by celebrating it through philanthropy and service? The Black Alumni affinity group is created and the 1961 Giving Society is started. This presentation will explore the establishment and implementation of the Black Alumni Affinity group at the University of Georgia and how launching a giving society helped increase engagement and giving among its 16,000 living Black alumni. From the lens of the program administrator and a development officer who are Black alumni of UGA and a volunteer, we will offer strategies for cross-campus partnering, volunteer management, and marketing that resonate with Black alumni to showcase their courage, commitment, and legacy at UGA.

Voluntary Support of Education Results and Benchmarking 

Speaker: Ann Kaplan, CASE

Find out the most recent estimates of charitable giving to US higher education institutions in the US. Understand where these outcomes fall in the context of historical trends. Dive deeper into the Data Miner application and drill down to detailed queries that anyone can do at his or her own institution. 

We Brought Back Gladys! A Crowdfunding Case Study 

Speakers: Tammi Fries, Campbell University; Alexandra Baumann, Campbell University 

We Brought Back Gladys: A Crowdfunding Case Study. Campbell University’s office of annual giving provides a behind the scenes look into creating and launching a formal crowdfunding program. Through our experience of bringing back a historic mascot named Gladys, this session will cover why we chose crowdfunding, how we began our first projects, to developing guidelines and materials, working with campus partners, and marketing the program on campus. There is an overwhelming amount of information about “crowdfunding” as a general topic, but more higher education institutions are hopping on board the crowdfunding train. Take a look at how we created our program to discover how this fundraising strategy can be tailored to your institution and amplify your fundraising efforts. Tammi Fries, director of annual giving, launched Campbell’s first giving day that resulted in over 1,000 donors and executed the first crowdfunding project to finish endowing a scholarship. Alex Baumann, assistant director of annual giving, launched the first senior giving campaign at Campbell and more than doubled participation from the first year to the second year. 

What do a Database Conversion and Buying a House have in Common? Everything! 

Speaker: Kelly Travis, University of Central Florida Foundation, Inc. 

Buying a house is one of the most overwhelming, involved and financially risky things we do in our personal lives. Well going through a database conversion is all those things and more! Consider this your homebuyers guide to purchasing a database. Learn how to navigate the various steps along the way and ensure that your investment reaps rewards. 

You Can't Be What You Can't See: An Approach Towards Inclusive Communications 

Speakers: Eryka L. Wallace, University of West Florida; Jimmy Orum, University of West Florida 

Derived from the model of inclusive marketing effectiveness, the presenters will lead the attendees in a dialogue on acceptance, belongingness, empowerment, equality, and respect. Through these lenses, an attendee can expect to leave the session with best practices and strategies on effective inclusive marketing and communications. Presenters are both certified in cross-cultural competency and serve as communication liaisons, allies, and advocates for several diversity and inclusion efforts on each campus, respectively, and within the community.

Your Next Planned Gift is Just a Phone Call Away! 

Speakers: Anthony R. Alonso, Catapult Fundraising, Inc.; Joseph Taylor 

This session will explore current statistics and trends in planned giving and look at new ways to enhance your organization’s planned giving efforts. Discover techniques for identifying planned giving prospects, soliciting potential donors, and closing the gift over the phone. Learn how to make the ask using the mass communication instruments of mail, e-mail and telephone solicitation. This session will also provide strategy on the selection of donors for a planned giving direct marketing campaign. Most planned giving donors say “they were simply never asked” for a gift. Learn how your organization can avoid this common pitfall and develop a thriving and profitable planned giving marketing and solicitation plan. Learning Objectives: Examine the profile of a planned giving donor and debunk common planned giving myths. Obtain a thorough understanding of how proven telephone solicitation techniques will significantly increase planned gifts to your institution. Discuss the latest trends, developments and marketing opportunities available today in planned giving. Discover new ways to solicit, cultivate and educate planned giving prospects. Find out how to solicit 1,000 planned giving prospects in a few short months as opposed to the years it would take a planned giving officer and secure millions of dollars in planned gifts during the process. 

Black Philanthropy: Now What? 

Speakers: Patrick Powell, Morehouse School of Medicine; John K. White JR., Morehouse School of Medicine 

John White and Patrick Powell will present real situations, ask challenging questions and role-play with attendees to see what they know and what they need to walk away with to successfully court black philanthropists. 

Boutique Style Engagement- How A Small Shop Engaged Alumni Business Owners 

Speakers: Sarah Swain, Campbell University

Alumni staff will share the goals of Orange Owned, the communication and marketing plan used, and the implementation strategy for the program. Because there were two full-time staff executing this program, we relied on-campus partnerships and our student workers. Key take-a-ways will include statistics of this niche engagement program, lessons learned from implementing this new program, and how the alumni and development team is utilizing this program to meet CASE's definition of Alumni Engagement. 

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Alumni and Students Through Dinner with 12 Strangers 

Speaker: Dejanae Banks, Emory University 

This presentation will outline the successes and challenges of the Dinner with 12 Strangers program at Emory University. It will highlight the host recruitment process and departmental goals for engaging local alumni. This program is going into its fifteenth year and continues to connect alumni to current graduate and undergraduate students over a meal, sharing stories from past and present. Participants will be able to identify interests and/or need for student-to-alumni engagement programs at their institution; cultivate student-to-alumni connections; and engage alumni who are looking for low commitment, high impact volunteer opportunities. 

Changing The Culture: How To Make A Big Impact With Small Numbers 

Speakers: Jannette S. Adams, Mississippi Valley State University; Brittany A. Davis-Green, Mississippi Valley State University; Kylon T. Alford-Windfield, Mississippi Valley State University; Shayvonne A. Ford, Mississippi Valley State University; Donell Maxie, Communications Specialist, Mississippi Valley State University

This presentation will discuss how this grant was secured, its use, and marketing, and role in rebranding the institution with each speaker providing a brief overview of their roles and outcomes of project activities. We will identify how the grant and its resources opened doors to new opportunities. 

Conducting an Operations Self-Audit 

Speaker: Cassie Hunt, Washington and Lee University 

In this session, aimed at more experienced Operations staff, we will look at how you can evaluate your Operations to find opportunities to improve. Attendees will work through different approaches and perspectives on this essential work. 

Cultivating and Stewarding The Couple: The Secret to the Transformational Gift 

Speaker: Debra T. Day, Owner, Day Consulting, LLC

We will discuss how to engage women vs. men in the cultivation and stewardship process. Not all women play golf, and don't want to sit around while their husband's share the lime light with institution's leaders. Engaging and stewarding the family is the key to soliciting donors for gifts that will transform your organization and move it to the next level and beyond. Debra has successfully engaged the female partners of the male donors, to identify some of the the wealthiest potential prospects of the institution, who were also women. For more insight on engaging couples in the major gift process, check out her Linkedin page 

Debunking Telefundraising Myths & How to Effectively Use Phoning Today 

Speaker: Anthony R. Alonso, Catapult Fundraising, Inc. 

This session will debunk today’s telefundraising myths and discuss how telephone outreach is still the most effective form of fundraising, after face-to-face visits. Combination mail/phone programs, if done correctly, will upgrade donors, bring lapsed donors back on board, and acquire non-donors at a low cost per dollar. This session will look at current statistics and trends in fundraising and how telefundraising can be incorporated to enhance your institution’s current efforts. Takeaways Include: Understanding the difference between telefundraising and telemarketing and why telefundraising is still highly effective today. Develop an understanding of solicitation techniques that are critical to renewing and upgrading donors, bringing lapsed donors back on board, and acquiring new donors. Explore the do’s and don’ts of telephone outreach programs and learn why programs may fail if you don’t follow a specific methodology. 

Engage the Unengaged Alumni Donor 

Speakers: Ashley Souza Gerb, University of South Florida; Krystal Pleasant, University of South Florida 

Are you planning a brand new giving campaign to an unengaged alumni population? Not sure where to begin? Start here with a case study of our annual giving campaign to engage the unengaged alumni donor. Fundraising to an unengaged alumni population can seem futile but when done effectively, engagement can be the critical and necessary step to rebuilding your donor base. In this session, we’ll show you how Marketing and Advancement teams can partner to deliberately cultivate alumni donors and launch a successful annual giving campaign. We’ll walk through strategies and lessons learned from building an inaugural annual giving campaign from the ground up and we’ll share tools you can use to reengage donors in efforts to renew their support. 

From Back of the House to the Front: How AdServ Staff are Frontline Fundraisers 

Speakers: Durba Chatterjee, Virginia State University; Reshunda L. Mahone, Virginia State University 

This session will discuss the utilization of information, data and metrics to maximize fundraising and how advancement services can drive philanthropic strategies and goals for your institution. Advancement services staff provide insight into information so we make smart and efficient decisions. Partnering with the various departments in institutional advancement allows advancement services to provide immediate input at the highest levels. 

From Real Talk to Real Change: Advancement in the #MeToo Era (Coach's Corner) 

Inclusion#MeToo and the Times Up movement opened up the dialogue around persistent inappropriate behavior in today's society, particularly in the workplace. This session will cover how advancement teams can begin the conversation and develop a plan to combat and respond to such behaviors.

Speakers: Kathleen Loehr, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group; Angelique Grant, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group

Getting Started – How to Create a Diversity & Inclusion Committee 

Speakers: Jenna Smith, University of Texas at Austin; Walt Edwards, University of Texas at Austin; Shaleiah Fox, University of Texas at Austin 

You’ll walk away with a detailed understanding of their approach as it pertains to staff training, employee recruitment and emerging constituencies in their donor pool, the steps they took to garner buy-in across campus, as well as simple and affordable strategies any shop can implement to increase diversity among their staff and donors. 

Growing your Future Workforce: Tips to Get Started 

Speakers: Samantha W. Marrs, Virginia Commonwealth University; Chad M. Krouse, Virginia Commonwealth University 

The presenters will share details on how to develop a successful and productive fundraising class. Course curricula is presented for both undergraduate an graduate levels. Details will be included on how to structure effective and meaningful mentorships, leadership training, and internship placement. The speakers serve as adjunct faculty at VCU and William & Mary, and both are professional major gift fundraisers. Participants will receive the curricula, lesson plans, and lessons learned after 2 years of this successful regional program. Survey results from course participants will also be shared, as well as longitudinal outcome data.

How to Develop Stewardship & Gratitude in Scholarship Recipients  

Speakers: Yvette Eastham, Hopkinsville Community College; Rena Young, Hopkinsville Community College 

It has never been more critical to community colleges to cultivate donors. In order to do so, it is imperative to change the culture and practices of recipients of donor generosity, particularly scholarship recipients. The Association of Fundraising Professional’s 2018 Fundraising Effectiveness Survey Report reveals some dismal data. The average donor retention rate in 2017 was 45.5% from the prior year. Every $100 gained in 2017 was offset by $96 in losses through gift attrition. It is incumbent on community colleges to grow and leverage grateful students. The power of community connections can change giving and donor relations permanently. 

How to Ditch a $200,000 Event for Better Return On Investment 

Speakers: Lorie McCroskey, Randolph Community College; Shelley W. Greene, Randolph Community College 

How to Ditch a $200,000 Event for Better Return On Investment (ROI): Learn why the Randolph Community College Foundation Staff ditched a $200,000 event for better Return on Investment (ROI). Fundraising events are a foundation for many nonprofit fundraising programs. But they are the most inefficient way of raising money. We will explain how we moved our administration, board and volunteers away from an event model, toward a development model built on relationships, engagement and data, securing a million-dollar gift in the first year and raising the most money in the Foundation’s history. 

How to Raise $1.1 Million on Giving Day with a Social & Email Strategy. 

Speakers: Nanfei Liu, James Madison University; Trey Secrist, James Madison University; Amy Martin, James Madison University 

How do you combat social algorithms on Giving Day and raise over $1.1 million? Join the Social Media Manager, Content Coordinator and Assistant Director of Digital Marketing for JMU for a session on how to collaborate email and social communications. Discover how to create content that will be served on your channels and how to prepare an email strategy that leads to giving. Data speaks, learn how to understand it. 

Leading Through Change - Leverage Uncertainty to Improve your Team & Institution 

Speaker: Keith Warburg, Valdosta State University 

For every leader, whether new in the profession or nearing retirement, will have to face the challenge of leading a team through change. This session will cover the psychology of change in organizations, leadership styles to generate positive consensus, lessons learned from leading through changes (good and bad), and a Q&A-format session to discuss current issues facing participants. Attendees will leave with a toolbox for leading change effectively on their campus, as well as specific methods to address their personal scenarios. The session is presented by a chief marketing and public relations officer who has led through 5 presidential turnovers, four divisional reorganizations, two campus security shutdowns, and the unification of five communications and marketing units into a unified organization. 

Maximizing Marketing Partnerships: Collaborate with your Most Valuable Partner 

Speaker: Liz Ball, Westminster Schools 

The Westminster School's Associate Vice President of Strategic Communications will share easy to implement strategies to help you effectively collaborate with your marketing and communications partners and maximize the success of your fundraising campaigns and initiatives. 

Pleasing Google, Boosting Applications: SEO Insights for Universities 

Speakers: Jennie Powers, Auburn University; Andrew Buck, Mighty Citizen 

If you’re like most universities, your website is costing you thousands of visitors every year. These lost opportunities are prospective students who might’ve found their way to enrollment…if your website wasn’t essentially hidden in search engine results. Lucky for you, most universities continue to make fundamental SEO mistakes that — with the help of this session — you can easily sidestep to seize the top spots on Google search results (and attract those students you would’ve otherwise missed altogether). In this fascinating, practical session, Patrick Wicker (Google-certified SEO pro) will demonstrate precisely what your school should do to optimize itself for search engines like Google. 

Protecting and Advancing Organizational Credibility Through Turbulent Times 

Speakers: Kim A. Keelor, Citadel; John Dorrian, U.S. Army War College, the Citadel 

Specific cases for the eight steps to Protecting and Advancing Organizational Credibility Through Turbulent Times, will include a combination of events managed by Col. John Dorrian and Kim Keelor for The Citadel, as well as examples of challenging cases that occurred during Dorrian's career with the US Air Force, as well as Keelor's previous experiences with major crisis communications events. The presentation will guide those attending, who will be in-house communications pros, on how to position themselves as organizational consultants to leadership and campus constituents at all levels. These credibility-enhancing strategies and tactics lead to sound operational decisions and avoid reputation destroying mistakes. 

Student-Alumni Diversity-Centered Engagement 

Speakers: Alysia Davis, James Madison University; Emma Maynard, James Madison University - Office of Alumni Relations 

James Madison University presenters Emma Maynard, Assistant Director of Madison Network Programming, and Alysia Davis, Assistant Director of Chapter Programs, will discuss the process of developing an on-campus student-centered Diversity Day program featuring alumni presenters. The session will include information on how to host a networking event using a TED-style format, and will specifically address the value of planning student and alumni networking programs. The benefits of making alumni and student-centered programs part of campus diversity conversations will highlight the promise of this event to deepen connections between alumni and students. The presenters will include relevant takeaways from their experiences hosting JMU's inaugural Madison Network Student & Alumni Diversity Brunch and will discuss how they plan to adjust their formula for future success. 

Translate Campaign Messages into Effective Fundraising Tools 

Speakers: Jason Peevy,  Auburn University; Patricia LePera, SteegeThomson Communications 

Participants will learn how to arrive at clear, concise campaign messages, how to use messages to engage stakeholders; and take away examples of message-driven creative content. We will cover: purpose; process; testing; application; and training. Session presents are seasoned campaign communicators. Jason Peevy, Associate Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Campaign Strategy at Auburn University has messaged campaigns at Auburn, the Smithsonian Institution, and Emory University. Patricia LePera, President of SteegeThomson Communications, has served as campaign communications counsel for the University of Pennsylvania, the Smithsonian, and Vanderbilt University, among others. 

Special Event

Enjoy the best of all worlds at our special event at Universal CityWalk®! Our Block Party combines three venues so you can experience an eclectic mix of themes, cuisine & entertainment all in one night.

#StandWithBennett: Using Social Media to Create a Movement 

Speakers: Yolande Johnson, Director of Stewardship and Donor Relations, Bennett College; Aziz Peregrino-Brimah, Webmaster, Bennett College 

In December 2018, Bennett College had to face the challenge of raising a minimum of $5 million to help save its accreditation. The #StandWithBennett campaign, fueled by social media, was launched by the College and led by the three-person communications team within the Office of Institutional Advancement. In the end, fifty-five days after the darkest moment in the college’s 146-year-history, the fundraising campaign resulted in the College raising over $9.5 million from over 13,000 donors, of which 11,000 were new to the College. By engaging in aggressive social media activity and taking advantage of new online giving tools, the College increased its visibility with over 130,000 new viewers to the website and over 373,000 page views. 

Advancement Services – Ask The Experts 

Speakers: Cassie Hunt, Washington and Lee University; John Taylor, John H. Taylor Consulting, LLC;  Dwight D. Dozier, Georgia Tech Foundation

This interactive session, complete with online audience polling, is your ready resource for your advancement services questions and outstanding counsel from three industry experts. You are invited to submit your questions in advance and/or suggested key areas you would like to see audience benchmarked to advancementservices@gmail.com. Moderator: Vicky Medlock  

Athletics Fundraising and How To Maximize Donor Gifts 

Speakers: Laura Suiter, Univerity of Tennessee at Martin; Jason Sullivan, Associate Director of Development, Univerity of Tennessee at Martin

This session will guide you through the basics of athletic fundraising and how it differs from other areas on the campus. The University of Tennessee at Martin is located in a rural West Tennessee and must share resources across campus and statewide.  

Cultivation & Stewardship: You Can’t do one Without the Other! 

Speakers: Erin Eigenbrot, University of South Carolina; Brian Danforth - University of Florida 

Cultivation and stewardship go hand-in-hand. Come learn from the University of South Carolina and the University of Florida on two important stages of the donor cycle. We’ll start with unique cultivation opportunities then close the circle with personalized stewardship examples all aimed toward major gift prospects. 

Four New Experiential Opportunities to Engage Your Alumni Community 

Speaker: Elizabeth Muse, University of Virginia 

The University of Virginia's Office of Engagement will highlight how they launched four unique engagement tools that helped connect their alumni, parents, and friends to UVA and created new interactive experiences for the community. Elizabeth Muse, Senior Director, Global Engagement and UVA Clubs, will present on the development of the four programs, the institutional strategy, and the processes that guided their creation. Participants will understand how the use of experiential engagement tools can be implemented for alumni relations programming and learn about key partnerships that can drive success. 

Give Day Planning and the Power of Partnerships 

Speakers: Catherine Vulevich, Spring Hill College; Brittany Ramsey, Spring Hill College 

Give Day Planning and the Power of Partnerships will utilize a presentation format and discussion to share a case study of Spring Hill College's Give Day and its success in featuring a scholarship. The Director of Donor Relations and Stewardship and a Major Gift Officer will provide insight on the process and the critical role of collaboration. Attendees will leave the session with knowledge on how to coordinate one-day fundraising effort for a specific scholarship, how to rally donors for a one-day fundraising effort for a specific scholarship, and how to leverage internal and external partnerships to reach nontraditional Give Day donors. 

How Good Are Your Management Skills? (Coach's Corner) 

Focus Area: Professional Development; Supervisors

What does it take to be a good manager? Seasoned senior leaders will share how to manage up, down and around to maximize your productivity, retain your team, and excel in your career.

Speakers: Howie Avery, Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Campaign Director at University of Virginia Darden School of Business; Floyd Akins, Senior Consultant, Aspen Leadership Group

Internal Campaigns: Breaking Rules, Turning Heads and Changing Perceptions 

Speakers: Lorie McCroskey, Randolph Community College; Shelley W. Greene, Randolph Community College 

Learn how Randolph Community College’s foundation planned and implemented a successful internal campaign that reaped an average 99.5% giving rate over the past five years. Understand the methods and strategies used by this multi-generational staff to motivate employees and board members to give and discuss the tactics used in changing perceptions and transforming the giving culture of the institution. The staff will share tips, tricks, and triumphs from start to finish. 

Learner Nation 

Speaker: Sara DuCuennois, Florida International University 

More students are seeking flexible alternatives to a traditional on-campus experience, and this impacts how an alumni relations program responds to and resonates with this growing population of future alumni. This session will include information on the sea change in higher education and why advancement professionals need to take note and action around it. Attendees will hear ideas and examples of engaging alumni in 2020 and beyond, including a model to engage online learners.

Not Quite Rookies: Thriving in Your First Eighteen Months in Higher Ed Development

Speakers: Rachel Ezzo, Georgia State University; Elizabeth Spears, Georgia State University; Allison Bass, Georgia State University 

We will review four key areas new giving officers will face including prospect management, following a visit process, relationship building, and time management. Rachel Ezzo, CFRE, and Elizabeth Spears, MPA, work at the largest and most diverse public university in the State of Georgia. Ezzo and Spears share over twenty-five years of development experience with only eighteen months in higher-ed. Learn from their successes and have a fun time doing it.

Parent & Family Fundraising... Say What?! 

Speakers: Carl Archut Jr,  University of Florida; David Sims, Washington University in St. Louis; Ashley Stone, The George Washington University 

This presentation will take a practical look at fundraising from current parents. From prospecting, parent council development, and making the case to raise both annual and major gifts from current parents, we will look at the successes, challenges, and key campus partners in order to lead a successful parent giving program. This presentation will also leverage results from a 2019 national benchmarking survey that went out to parent and family gift officers from colleges and universities across the nation. Participants will leave with a strong understanding of how various parent program teams are structured around the country and how they can approach their work with undergraduate parents to move the needle forward for their own institution. 

Put a Ring on It: Marrying Events and Research to “Engage” Donors and Prospects 

Speakers: Jennifer Robinson, George Mason University; Pamela Lewis, George Mason University 

Events are an integral element of constituent engagement and a vital component of an organization’s outreach to alumni, donors and prospects. How can prospect research and events/engagement staff work together to better engage and steward donors and prospects? In this session, you will learn why prospect and donor research is essential for a successful engagement event, and how to maximize the impact of events, by creating attendee engagement and stewardship plans for gift officers, deans, and even your president! 

Senior Year Road Map: 3 Events That Can Help the Student to Alumni Transition 

Speakers: Maria Wykes, Bridgewater College; Colby Horne, Bridgewater College 

After watching seniors fall through the cracks instead of becoming engaged alumni, we created three senior events that this year doubled and even tripled attendance numbers from years prior. We will teach you how to brainstorm three connected senior events, design social media and email communications using a free program, and communicate effectively in order to increase student email open rate. After using a visual presentation to cover data and share images, we will show you the programs we use to create those communications. After showing you how we implemented them into our event plan, you will be ready to start using the takeaways we give the second you get back to campus! 

Simple Project Management for Everyone 

Speaker: Gregory Bowers, University of South Florida 

The speaker will share examples from two organizations (via web browser and slides) of the WuFoo-Asana-Email integration approach to demonstrate how it can be used anywhere. The speaker will review a basic project management design and explain how it can adjust in scale and scope. Slides will display specific steps attendees can follow to build their own project management solutions, regardless of technology skill level. The speaker has a background in marketing, communications, higher education student affairs, project management, graphic design, video production, public speaking and event planning with 11 years of experience in higher education administration. 

So You Want to be a Leader 

Speaker: Maxine R. Greenleaf, Jackson State University 

During this session, the presenter will provide a case study on her first year managing a large team at a HBCU. The study will show pitfalls and growth in leadership. This session will give the audience points on how to avoid these pitfalls to become successful leaders. Maxine Greenleaf has been in a leadership position of managing teams for seven years. Some of the takeaways include tips for managing teams with thoughtfulness and lessons on becoming more introspective. 

Subject to Change 

Speaker: Karen S. Cochran, UCF 

The only thing constant is change. With more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, Karen Cochran, Senior Associate Vice President for Advancement at UCF, has learned this lesson. She brings a strong track record of exceptional team building, strategic planning and results. This session will explore how to manage change with a focus on creating innovative solutions, strengthening your team's performance and delivering results. Participants will come away with techniques for planning as a team during change with a focus on embracing inclusion, transparency, and open feedback. 

The FGCU Effect: Incorporating Augmented Reality into Admissions Marketing 

Speaker: Deborah Wiltrout, Florida Gulf Coast University 

Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has incorporated augmented reality (AR) into the prospective student experience and it seems to be capturing student’s attention and setting us apart. AR gave us the ability to have students literally come to life within the pages of our print materials in a way that we’ve never seen in higher education. In the viewbook a biology major talks about doing breast cancer research with her professor. Another student addresses the availability of student support services. In our travel piece, a student talks directly to prospects to ensure them that FGCU is a school worth investigating. And there are several instances of highlighting our beautiful and vibrant campus life. The use of augmented reality in our recruitment materials, at the Welcome Center and on-campus tours is helping to achieve our goals and set us apart from our competitors.  

The Journey of Two Schools: A School/College Partnership for Empowering Students 

Speakers: Tiffany Blassingame, Midtown International School; Aisha Deberry, GA Campus: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medication 

The presentation explores the partnership established between the Director of Academics at a K-12 independent school and the Director of Diversity at a local pharmaceutical college, both in metro Atlanta, which developed a mentoring and academic support program for high school and college students. Through this collaboration, high school students received research support and ongoing feedback from college students. College students received academic life coaching and mentorship from independent school administrators. Attendees will receive an outline of how the program was developed, the benefits for both schools and their students, lessons learned during the process, and time to generate ideas and necessary steps to create a similar program at their school. 

The Power of Social Media: Building Your Audience and Building Your Brand 

Speaker: Patrick Powel, Morehouse School of Medicine 

During this session, we'll discuss how you can utilize technology and social media to extend the impact of your institution's brand. We'll examine the digital communication and content that made Morehouse School of Medicine successful and I'll teach you how to capture the stories and moments that make your institution unique and attractive to all audiences.

Wednesday Plenary*

Maya Van Wagenen, Author and Memoirist

Maya Van Wagenen is a 21-year-old award-winning author living in Georgia. Her first book, Popular, published by Dutton, Penguin Random House, debuted on the New York Times Bestseller List when she was fifteen. This memoir chronicled Maya’s eighth-grade adventures in a U.S.-Mexican border town as she followed the advice of an outdated 1950s popularity guide.

*Buffet breakfast will be served before/during the plenary session.