August 26

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

Why the Wonky Numbers? Using Case Development to Increase Giving?

Donors know that nothing costs exactly $1,000. Yet, we often assume donors don't want to know what things actually cost - turns out they do! If you want to raise unrestricted operating dollars while compelling donors to give more, this session is for you!

We'll explain how to build an annual fund case for support, calculating true costs for the programs you offer. You'll be amazed how a "wonky number" resonates with and inspires donors to even larger gifts. It's simple, effective, and fun!

Linda Haley, CFRE 

President and CEO
Let's Build Hope, LLC

Since 1995, Linda B. Haley, CFRE, has successfully worked with nonprofit teams to raise more than $200 million.  

Linda started Let’s Build Hope in 2013 to guide nonprofits through teaching, coaching, and mentoring nonprofit professionals. LBH has also developed multiple training programs, through which they have educated more than 2,000 nonprofit leaders.  

Linda has been a CFRE since 2001 and was named the 2016 Outstanding Fundraising Executive by the St. Louis Regional Chapter of AFP.

Dawn M.S. Miller, CFRE

Senior Vice President
Let's Build Hope, LLC

Since 1997, Dawn M.S. Miller, CFRE, has raised millions for international programs, capital efforts, disaster relief, annual funds, and focused campaigns. Dawn has extensive experience designing fundraising programs and has raised more than $200 million with 250+ nonprofits.

Dawn is a member of the LBH Leadership Team, former chair of the AFP Advanced Professionals Committee for St. Louis and was recognized as an Outstanding Leader at The Sophia Project’s 2025 Little Black Dress Awards.

August 26

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

On the Fundraising Trail: Is Your Program Built to Grow?

Sustainable fundraising growth requires a clear understanding of a program’s systems, strategies, and resources. This session explores how to assess fundraising health using qualitative insights and quantitative data. Participants will examine stakeholder perspectives, database infrastructure, fundraising processes, and team capacity. Attendees will gain a practical framework to identify strengths and opportunities that support a resilient, growth-oriented fundraising program.

Theresa Fleck, EdD, CFRE, CAE, ENP

Chief Development Officer
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri & Kansas

Theresa L. Fleck, EdD, CFRE, CAE, CNP is Chief Development Officer for Make-A-Wish Missouri & Kansas. A fundraising leader since 2001, she has led advancement strategy for a wide range of nonprofit organizations. She specializes in major gifts, campaigns, donor stewardship, and fundraising systems. A past president of AFP St. Louis, she frequently presents on fundraising leadership and strategy. She holds a doctorate from Creighton University.

August 27

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

From Insight to Impact: Philanthropic Trends Driving Strategy in 2026

Explore the evolving philanthropic landscape through the latest data and insights shaping giving today. This session will unpack national, regional, and local trends and examine opportunities and challenges influencing donor and funder behavior. Participants will gain practical strategies to inform decision-making, adapt engagement plans, and build leadership capacity as strategic partners—using data to guide direction and position their organizations for long-term impact.

Meghan Davison

Executive Vice President
CCS Fundraising

Meghan Davison, Executive Vice President at CCS Fundraising, oversees our firms work in St. Louis and brings over 15 years of leadership in nonprofit consultation, fundraising, and campaign management. She leverages her expertise of the philanthropic landscape to foster strategic partnerships across sectors. Meghan specializes in data analytics, strategic planning, major gift program management, and campaign communication, advancing projects with goals exceeding $1 billion.

Larisa Malley

Senior Director
CCS Fundraising

Larisa Malley, Senior Director at CCS Fundraising, has spent her career working in the nonprofit sector and has called St. Louis home for the past decade. After receiving her Master of Social Work from the Brown School, she joined CCS where she has worked on several fundraising campaigns and studies in the human services sector. Her areas of expertise include corporate and individual giving, case development, and volunteer management.

August 27

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

Stop Chasing Whales - What Moby Dick Teaches About Annual Fund Success

Donor counts are falling while dollars rise—and what does this mean for the future of fundraising? This session unpacks how to grow participation without sacrificing major gifts. Explore key fundraising benchmarks from the national sector then learn how peer nonprofits are using smart outreach, annual fund strategy, and direct mail to boost acquisition, retention, and sustainable giving. Identify clear, actionable tactics to build a stronger pipeline of donors and future major supporters.

Alicia M. Lifrak, CFRE

CEO and Founder
Dragonfly Collective Agency

With three decades of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, Alicia has dedicated herself to philanthropy working directly in nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions before transitioning to the agency/consulting side of the sector in 2018. Alicia founded Dragonfly Collective, a full-service fundraising and marketing agency that works exclusively with nonprofit orgs to bring her front-line fundraising and governance experience to help her clients achieve big goals.

Traci Basden, CFRE

Senior Director of Client Strategy
Dragonfly Collective Agency

Traci has more than 30 years in the direct response world, with 25 years focused on fundraising. She has guided campaigns across nonprofits of all shapes and sizes. She utilizes her experience to help organizations activate, grow, and retain donors and revenues with strategies that employ industry best practices and are optimized for the individual organization.

August 27

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

"Get Up Offa That Thing!" A Pep Talk for Development Professionals

Often fundraisers get caught in the administrative work of our positions. This presentation is designed to provide you with a simple strategy for getting out into the community, making asks, and taking action; we may need a reminder of the tools we have to get the job done with positivity, effectiveness, and efficiency. We will discuss a plan from scheduling to securing gifts both initial and major and look at ways we can effectively follow up on our donors’ generosity.

Eryn Bates Kemp, CFRE, MBA

CEO
Harriman-Jewell Series

Eryn Bates Kemp, MBA, CFRE, serves as the CEO of the Harriman-Jewell Series, a world-class performing arts presenting organization in Kansas City. Matching positive persistence with strategic planning, she directs all areas of fundraising from special events to major giving, grant writing to foundation stewardship, board development and administrative operations.

August 27

3:10 p.m.-4:10 p.m.

Build to Grow: a Fresh Framework for Your Individual Giving Program

Growing individual giving is a priority for almost every organization — but when everything feels urgent, it's hard to know where to focus. This session helps you identify the growth strategy that makes the most sense for your program right now, and gives you a four-part framework for building the foundation to support it. Leave with clarity, direction, and the confidence to move forward.

Katie Mendez

Founder & CEO
Built to Raise

Katie Mendez is the founder of Built to Raise, a consulting practice grounded in nearly 15 years of in-house nonprofit fundraising experience. A coach and partner to organizational leaders, she provides fundraising leadership when it's needed most — stepping in as interim director of development and working alongside teams that are ready to build a stronger program.

August 26

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Designing Support Systems that Sustain Leadership

The pressure to overperform and "hold it together" is real, especially for nonprofit leaders carrying caregiving responsibilities and invisible labor. This session is about designing support systems as a leadership strategy, exploring how offloading low-value tasks creates capacity for high-impact work, and how to build conditions where your whole team can do the same. Attendees will leave with a practical framework for reclaiming capacity and leading sustainably.

Bree Muehlbauer, CFRE, MPA

Associate Vice President, Philanthropy Activation
Digital Health Strategies

Bree Muehlbauer, CFRE, MPA, AFP Certified Trainer, is building the future of philanthropy. As AVP of Philanthropy Activation at Digital Health Strategies, she brings deep cross-sector expertise to nonprofit health systems, equipping them with data intelligence, AI-powered fundraising tools, and the infrastructure to fund mission at scale. She is a speaker and educator and is deeply committed to practicing our profession with rigor, ethics and accountability.

August 27

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Partnership Path: Coaching Volunteers for Trust-Based Fundraising

Does the idea of managing relationships with a board of directors or volunteers feel intimidating? The secret to successful volunteer engagement is in the coaching approach to trust-based fundraising. This session empowers fundraisers of all levels to lead seasoned board members and volunteers with confidence. We’ll provide the tools to build collaborative relationships where you provide the strategy, and they provide the heart, inspiring volunteers to connect authentically with donors.

Ann Ross-Weldy, MA

Director of Capacity Building
New Chapter Coaching

Anne Ross-Weldy is a nonprofit leader with over 24 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and consulting. As Director of Capacity Building at New Chapter Coaching, Anne empowers organizations to drive sustainable growth. Her work in fundraising has generated over $20 million in support for nonprofits. Anne has supported hundreds of nonprofits to overcome challenges by designing fundraising strategies, coaching staff and boards, and building resilient, donor-centered development.

August 27

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

Lead, Lift, Thrive: A New Playbook for Today's Leaders

Today’s leaders must do more than manage—they must inspire growth, support their people, and drive results. In this dynamic session, I will introduce the LIFT Model™ to help leaders and organizations lead with clarity, invest in talent, foster connection, and translate strategy into action. Blending real-world insight with actionable strategies, attendees will gain practical tools for personal leadership to fuel both individual success and sustained organizational impact.

Desiree Coleman-Fry

CEO
Women Work Well

Desiree Coleman-Fry⁠ is a C-suite exec who’s led transformational change across corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors. She’s a best selling author and sought-after leadership coach who helps women elevate their careers. Seen in the New York Times, Harvard Business Review, and TEDx, Desiree serves as CEO of Women Work Well, a social-impact venture building community ecosystems for women’s personal, professional, and economic mobility. She’s a working mom and calls STL home.

August 27

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

From Consideration to Integration: A 360 View of a Non Profit Merger

Merger is a hot topic, but when should one be considered and what does success actually look like? This session brings together practitioners who worked the same merger from different roles: the consultant who facilitated the consideration process, the senior staff leader who led post-merger integration, and a board member of the acquired org. Together they offer a candid look at merger trends, questions that should be asked before pursuing, and hard-won tips for what makes the process work.

Kari McAvoy

Partner
EMD Consulting Group

A Partner at EMD Consulting since 2010, Kari McAvoy helps nonprofits build organizational strength. Kari has deep expertise in organizational development, decision-making, and structural change, with a practice spanning executive search, succession planning, and strategic planning. She has guided 15 merger consideration processes to combination and led additional processes where the right answer was not to merge.

Eulonda Nevels

Partner
EMD Consulting Group

Eulonda Nevels joined EMD Consulting as a Partner in 2024. Previously, as Chief Administrative Officer at YWCA Metro St. Louis, she led strategic planning, operations, and women's services. She also guided the post-merger integration of A Women's Place, making her a proven resource for organizations navigating structural change. Her consulting practice spans strategic planning, search, program design, and building operational strength.

August 26

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Mapping Missouri's Funding Landscape

Missouri’s funding landscape is shaped by geographic concentration, uneven distribution of resources, and varying experiences across nonprofits, funders, and grant professionals. This session shares findings from a two-phase statewide research initiative designed to better understand where dollars are, where they are going, and how funding systems are experienced across the state.

Patrice Shumate

Board President
Grant Professionals Association St. Louis Regional Chapter

Patrice Shumate has spent nearly two decades working in and around nonprofits as a social worker, grant consultant, and systems disrupter. Through A Village for Good, she helps small and mid-sized organizations navigate the messy, inequitable world of philanthropy with more strategy, confidence, and intention. Patrice is the current Board President of the Grant Professionals Association St. Louis Chapter, a member of Consultants 4 Good, and on the planning team of More Than Grant Writers.

Jessica Price

Manager of Evaluation
Washington University Center for Public Health Systems Science (CPHSS)

Jessica Price is the Evaluation Manager at the Center for Public Health Systems Science at WashU and oversees evaluation and implementation projects, including multiple CADCA collaborations, REACH St. Louis with Integrated Health Network, Emotion Builders with Hermann Center, and community health needs assessment reports with local health systems. Her areas of interest include community-engaged and participatory evaluation, developmental evaluation, and qualitative and mixed methods research.

August 26

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

From Logos to Leads: Enhancing Sponsorships with Active Engagement

The traditional sponsorship model is failing to keep pace with modern marketing demands. With corporate budgets shifting toward trackable digital spend, many events, such as golf tournaments, must evolve. This presentation outlines a strategic pivot from "selling a logo on a sign" to "selling a data-driven business partnership".

Casey Jolley

Director of Business Development and Project Management
NMBL Strategies

Eric Moraczewski

Executive Director
NMBL Strategies

August 26

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

Stronger Together: Development and Program Collaborative Impact

Fundraising success depends on more than just meeting revenue goals—it requires strong alignment between development and program teams. In this session, Laura Benson, Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations, and Danielle Washington, Chief Program Officer at Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, will share how their partnership has transformed cross-department collaboration. Using GSEM as a case study, they’ll explore best practices that improved coordination, ensured grants directly benefit programs, and elevated donor confidence. Attendees will gain practical strategies for fostering stronger internal partnerships that lead to deeper mission impact and sustainable fundraising success.

Laura Benson

Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri

Laura Benson is the Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations at Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, where she works to expand and strengthen relationships with institutional partners. With 15 years of experience across both local and national organizations, including Forest Park Forever and the National Kidney Foundation, she has dedicated her career to bridging community needs with corporate collaboration.  Laura earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Southeast Missouri State University.   

Danielle Washington, MSW

Chief Program Officer
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri

Danielle Washington is the Chief Program Officer at Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, where she leads key operational areas to support girl and volunteer members. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she brings deep expertise in designing and managing impactful youth programs, including career readiness, college persistence, leadership development, and residential camp experiences. Washington earned both her Bachelor’s and Maser’s degrees in Social Work from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

August 26

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Exploring Careers in Corporate & Foundation Relations

CFR is a growing field that often requires a chameleon. The broad skill set needed might include grant writing and research, but also presentations, networking and traditional fundraising. The position is multi-layered, ever-changing and never dull. We'll discuss what this trajectory may look like and how this may enhance your current position or organization, or become a new career path for you.

Wendy Schlesinger

Executive Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations
Saint Louis University

Wendy has been in Corporate and Foundation Relations for almost 10 years, 7 as the Exec. Director at SLU. Prior to fundraising, she was a division Sales and Marketing Manager at Distribution Management Inc. where she grew sales from $11M to $23M in 3 years.

She is frequent speaker and panelist at national advancement and corporate relations conferences. She holds an MBA from Emory University and a Bachelors degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

August 27

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

The New Reality of Non Profit Funding: Federal Cuts & What's Next

Federal funding has become increasingly unstable, and nonprofits are already feeling the ripple effects—rising demand, operational strain, and uncertainty about what can be sustained. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what’s changing, practical strategies for communicating urgency and aligning fundraising, and insight into how coordination across organizations can strengthen regional response.

Ann Fisher Jackson

Chief Strategist
Key Strategic Group

Ann Fisher-Jackson, Chief Strategist at Key Strategic Group, brings over a decade of consulting and nonprofit experience to her role. Her passion for finding innovative solutions to complex challenges drives her work and infuses her strategies with equity and inclusivity. Ann’s work is guided by her unwavering commitment to advancing equity and justice, ensuring organizations she supports are well-equipped to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Erica Henderson, CEO KSG 

CEO
Key Strategic Group

Erica Henderson is an unwavering, visionary, and strategic leader dedicated to systems change, justice, and dismantling systemic racism. She has a long track record of co-creating community-driven solutions that pave the way for economic success and create substantive and generational impact. With a formidable track record spanning over 20 years, Erica has been a driving force in mobilizing communities to achieve true social equity and justice.

Lauren Young 

Key Strategic Group

Marius Johnson Malone

Chief Strategy Officer 
Civic Insight

August 27

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

the Aligned Organization: Chair Yoga & Strategic Planning Integration

Strategic planning often fails not because of poor data, but because of "cognitive rigidity"—the mental burnout and defensive thinking that occur during long hours of high-stakes deliberation. This interactive session breaks the traditional boardroom mold by integrating targeted chair yoga directly into the strategic planning framework.

*Come prepared to move.

Casey Jolley

Director of Business Development and Project Management
NMBL Strategies

August 27

3:10 p.m.-4:10 p.m.

Future of Philanthropic Funding

This session will explore key trends in funding, including what younger donors in the 25–45-year age will be seeking and how innovation is needed to unlock the growing Donor Advised Fund opportunity. It will talk about trends with wealth advisors and how to work with them to get their clients to be more generous to your organization.

Betsy Cohen

Harvard MBA, 21/64 Certified Donor Advisor, TEDx Speaker

Philanthropic Futurist
FutureGood

Betsy was the Executive Director of the St. Louis Mosaic Project and had a long career at Nestle Purina. She is on the SLU Chaifetz Business School Board. She is the author of a book. She gave a TEDx talk. In 2025 she was one of the top 500 business leaders by St. Louis Magazine. She is a 21/64 Certified Philanthropic Advisor and a member of the National Speakers Association. Betsy is a graduate of Wellesley College and has her MBA from the Harvard Business School.

August 26

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Imposter Syndrome as Fundraising Professionals

Imposter syndrome quietly shapes our experiences as fundraising professionals and leaders - impacting confidence, decision-making, and results. Drawing on two decades of mentoring and coaching, along with insights from an upcoming survey of nonprofit professionals, this session explores how self-doubt shows up, who it affects most, and why. Participants will leave with practical strategies to manage imposter syndrome and lead, ask, and show up with greater confidence.

Jason A. Huff, AFP Master Training

Consultant
The Rome Group

Jason Huff brings 20+ years of experience as a fundraising professional, educator, and consultant. He has led efforts for annual goals ranging from $500K to $50M+. His expertise spans development, marketing, and leadership. He is a former president of AFP St. Louis and has served on several AFP Global committees. He has taught graduate courses at Washington University and Webster University.

August 26

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

Are Your Fundraising Practices Excluding Disabled Donors?

This session explores how common fundraising practices unintentionally exclude disabled donors and offers inclusive practices. Using the donor lifecycle, participants will identify accessibility gaps and apply practical, low-cost strategies to build more inclusive donor engagement that fosters belonging, trust, and long-term support.

Anna Corbitt, MA, MBA Candidate

Disability Inclusion Consultant
Starkloff Disability Institute

Anna is a nonprofit fundraising professional, educator, and equity facilitator focused on disability inclusion. With over a decade in disability-focused organizations, Anna brings expertise in inclusive donor engagement and relationship-building. A dynamic speaker trained through NCCJ St. Louis, Anna blends lived experience, humor, and authenticity to create space for meaningful conversations that drive more inclusive practices.

August 26

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

Nonprofits as Third Spaces: Building Community Power and Advocacy

Nonprofits face growing pressure to engage in advocacy while navigating burnout and declining trust. This session reframes organizations as “third spaces”—community hubs where relationships, leadership, and civic engagement drive advocacy. Participants will learn practical strategies to move from transactional engagement to community-powered advocacy embedded in everyday work.

Rachel D'Souza, MPPA, MLS

CEO + Founder
Gladiator Consulting

Rachel D'Souza, MPPA, MLS is the founder of Gladiator Consulting in St. Louis, MO, a boutique firm co-creating with nonprofits across the country. As a proud member of the Community-Centric Fundraising Global Council, Rachel works to guide and resource a global initiative to reimagine the nonprofit sector through a lens of radical collaboration, racial equity, social justice, and decolonization.

Faybra Jabulani, M.Ed, BA

Co-Founder, CEO & Principal Consultant
Kamili Communities LLC

Faybra brings over a decade of experience at the intersection of culture, leadership, and community engagement. Her work advancing health equity and access in the Midwest demonstrates her skill in translating community voice into actionable systems change. Faybra’s strengths in culture-building, structured imagination, and compassionate accountability equip participants with frameworks to create nonprofit environments that center community, leadership, and sustainable advocacy.

August 27

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Safe & Strong Relationships: The Power of Trauma-Informed Fundraising

Discover how trauma-informed fundraising and intersectionality can transform nonprofit culture. This session explores frameworks and strategies to foster emotional safety, build trust, and promote equity among donors, staff, and beneficiaries—empowering attendees, the organizations they work for, and our community to create lasting, mission-driven relationships.

Jessa Glick, LMSW, CFRE

Director of Development
Planned Parenthood Great Rivers

Jessa Glick, LMSW, CFRE, is the Director of Development at Planned Parenthood Great Rivers. Over her 20-year career in nonprofits and a decade of fundraising experience, she has helped donors make informed investments in the community, raising more than $25M across small, medium, and large organizations. Through her leadership on the AFP-STL board as VP of IDEA, Jessa continues to make significant strides in promoting equity and co-creating a culture of philanthropy

August 27

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

Equity, Ethics, and Survival: The Realities Facing Small Nonprofits

Small nonprofits are closest to the communities at risk of being overlooked, yet they face increasing pressures due to a funding and service landscape dominated by larger institutions. This panel will examine the challenges confronting grassroots and small nonprofit organizations, including inequitable funding structures, disproportionate scrutiny, and the growing expectation to “do more with less.”

Panelists will explore key questions: How can we ensure that vulnerable populations are not neglected as organizations grapple with financial instability and chronic capacity issues? What distinguishes meaningful collaboration from mergers that dilute organizational missions or community voices? How do power dynamics in philanthropy create double standards, with differing expectations and scrutiny based on organizational size? How can we confront the constant fear of having to close our doors? When will our voices be truly heard?

Discussion topics will include ethical grantmaking practices, disparities between multimillion-dollar agencies and smaller nonprofits competing for resources, the burdens faced by executive directors, particularly women in leadership, and the reality that many small nonprofit leaders often become their organization's largest donors. Through open dialogue, this session aims to center the experiences of grassroots nonprofit leaders and explore pathways toward a more equitable, accountable, and collaborative nonprofit ecosystem.

Rachel D'Souza, MPPA, MLS

CEO + Founder
Gladiator Consulting

Rachel D'Souza, MPPA, MLS is the founder of Gladiator Consulting in St. Louis, MO, a boutique firm co-creating with nonprofits across the country. As a proud member of the Community-Centric Fundraising Global Council, Rachel works to guide and resource a global initiative to reimagine the nonprofit sector through a lens of radical collaboration, racial equity, social justice, and decolonization.

Jacqueline Dace

Executive Director
St. Louis Artworks

Jacqueline K. Dace is currently the Executive Director of St. Louis Artworks in St. Louis, MO. She is responsible for the creation of numerous public art installations throughout the city. Prior to this, she served as the Deputy Director of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and held positions such as Director of Internal Affairs and Interim Executive Director at the National Blues Museum. Dace has also worked as a Project Manager for the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Collections Manager at the DuSable Museum of African American History in Chicago, Curator of African American History at the Missouri Historical Society, and Adjunct Professor of Afro-African American Studies at Washington University in St. Louis.  She has received several awards for her contributions, including the Hollywood Black Film Festival and Kansas City Film Festival Awards, National Arts Strategies Fellowship, and the 2019 Ohio Valley Regional Emmy for the documentary "Mandela: Prepared to Die". Dace has also participated in a number of programs, including the inaugural Public History Institute developed by the Gilder Lehrman Center for the Study of Slavery, Resistance, and Abolition and the National Museum of African American History and Culture at Yale University, and the W. K. Kellogg Foundation's Racial Equity program.  In addition, she graduated from the Jackson Division of the FBI Citizens Academy and was selected to participate in the first American Express Women in Music Leadership Academy in 2018. In 2022, Dace served as an Outstanding Alumni Speaker at the Undergraduate Ceremony for the College of Arts & Sciences at Webster University.  Dace's contributions have not gone unnoticed, as she received the Museum Leadership Award from the Association of African American Museums and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Webster University in 2023. Currently, she serves on the Design Committee for Delmar Main Street and is a member of Webster University's College and Humanities and Social Sciences Advisory Board. She has also served on several committees for the Organization of American Historians, the National Council on Public History, the Oral History Association, the Annual Meeting of the American Alliance of Museums, and is a former board member for the Association of African American Museums. 

Emily Kohring, MFA

Executive Artistic Director
Bread & Roses Missouri

Emily Kohring has more than two decades of experience in arts and culture leadership positions in St. Louis. She is currently Executive Artistic Director of Bread and Roses Missouri and was previously Executive Director Artscope. Prior to that, she spent nine seasons as Education Director/Artistic Associate at Metro Theater Company. As a theatre producer, director and dramaturg, she specializes in the development of new plays and theatre for social change. She is producer of Bread and Roses Missouri’s Workers Theatre Project. She is an alum of the St. Louis Community Arts Training (CAT) Institute, and received her MFA in Theatre for Youth from Arizona State University.

Sheila Suderwalla, MSW

Executive Director
Artists First

With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Sheila Suderwalla has been featured in the New York Times, St. Louis Post-Dispatch & Time Magazine. St. Louis Magazine named her as one of the “Women That Make St. Louis Great.” As Executive Director, Sheila has built Artists First into an award-winning organization. She has a Bachelor of Arts from Principia College, Masters in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis, and a Certificate in Expressive and Integrative Therapies.

August 27

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Burnout to Breakthrough: Sustainable Leadership for Fundraisers

In a profession driven by deadlines, donor expectations, and organizational pressure, burnout is common. This session helps fundraising professionals reclaim purpose, develop sustainable leadership practices, and create healthier fundraising environments that support long-term success for both teams and the missions they serve.

Heather Kemper, MA, CFRE ACNP

Director of Advancement
Miriam School and Learning Center

Heather L. Kemper, MFA, CFRE, is Director of Advancement at Miriam School and Learning Center in St. Louis, where she leads fundraising, marketing, and strategic partnerships. A recognized nonprofit leader and national speaker, Heather focuses on relationship-driven philanthropy, donor engagement, and building sustainable fundraising cultures that empower organizations to grow their mission and impact.

August 27

3:10 p.m.-4:10 p.m.

Building an Equitable Organization Culture

Prioritizing equity requires an internal cultural shift, leading through change, and an evaluation of board, staff, and program policies – from top to bottom. This session will examine how leaders in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors can proactively shape an organization’s culture to prioritize equity, anticipate changes in staff and volunteer climate, and use principles of change management to successfully handle this critical shift in operations.

Jennifer Drake, MSW

Owner & Consultant
Drake Strategy Partners

Jennifer Drake is the founder of Drake Strategy Partners, where she works with nonprofits, and philanthropic organizations to create infrastructure, strategy, and effective practices. Jennifer has two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector - first as an employee and leader in local and national organizations and as a consultant since 2015. Jennifer earned a Master of Social Work from the Brown School and serves on the boards of ArchCity Defenders and the Northside Movement Center.

August 26

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Policies Every Non Profit Needs

Many nonprofits have Gift Acceptance Policies, this seminar will explore other nonprofit policies that are essential for building an ethical nonprofit organization. Policies including Conflict of Interest, Human Resources, Nondiscrimination, Confidentiality, and others.

Jack Alotto, MA, CFRE

Trainer
Fundraising Academy at National University

Jack is a graduate of Glassboro State College and the State University of New York at Oswego, both degrees are in Psychology. Throughout his career, Jack has served in a variety of fundraising positions in hospital, social service and the arts as executive director, development director, major gift and legacy giving manager, and foundation and corporate relations manager. Jack is a California CFRE Ambassador.

August 26

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

CFRE Foundations

What does it take to successfully pass the CFRE Exam? What core concepts form the foundation of the six domains tested? Which study strategies and personal attributes best support candidates on their path to earning the CFRE credential?
This seminar addresses these questions by exploring essential fundraising principles, proven exam-preparation strategies, and practical insights designed to help participants approach the CFRE Exam with confidence and clarity.

Jack Alotto, MA, CFRE

Trainer
Fundraising Academy at National University

Jack is a graduate of Glassboro State College and the State University of New York at Oswego, both degrees are in Psychology. Throughout his career, Jack has served in a variety of fundraising positions in hospital, social service and the arts as executive director, development director, major gift and legacy giving manager, and foundation and corporate relations manager. Jack is a California CFRE Ambassador.

August 27

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

The Champion Within

Fundraising requires resilience, clarity, and the ability to stay grounded under pressure. In this engaging keynote, executive coach Jeff Koziatek introduces the Champion Mindset and his Meaning, Message, and Mirrors framework—three powerful influences that shape how leaders think, lead, and respond to challenges. Attendees will gain practical tools to strengthen self-awareness, quiet self-doubt, and lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Jeff Koziatek

Executive Coach and Keynote Speaker
Core Authenticity

Jeff Koziatek is a keynote speaker, executive coach, and author who helps leaders turn adversity into advantage. A former entertainer with over 5,000 live performances, Jeff now works with organizations to strengthen mindset, communication, and leadership under pressure. His engaging, story-driven presentations combine practical tools with powerful insight to help professionals sustain energy, lead with clarity, and perform at their best in demanding roles.

August 27

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

DEEP Dive Session - Part 1

The Long Game: How Strategic Onboarding and Development Drive Success

Attendees will learn how intentional onboarding, a strategic first 100 days, and continuous employee development contribute to building high‑retention, high‑performing teams. Explore how to cultivate a resilient, values‑driven culture grounded in transparency, innovation, collaboration, and accountability—while ensuring roles and performance metrics are clearly aligned. Learn practical strategies to develop people from day one and foster a trusted, growth‑driven culture

Lisa Masters, MBA, CFRE

Executive Philanthropic Advisor
Missouri University of Science & Technology

Lisa has 20+ years of experience in philanthropy in major gifts, campaigns, and gift planning securing multi-million-dollar gifts. She has been a part of St. Louis organizations such as the United Way, Saint Louis University, Mercy Healthcare Foundation, and as a local consultant. She is currently an Executive Philanthropic Advisor at Missouri S&T where is a liaison to the newly established Kummer College.

Lara Turek, CFRE

Assistant Vice Chancellor
Missouri University of Science & Technology

Lara leads the philanthropy team at Missouri S&T as Assistant Vice Chancellor for University Advancement. Over nearly two decades, her experience covers the breadth of alumni relations, annual fund, prospect research, and fundraising in higher education and the arts. Most notably, she has led in several transformational gifts to the university offering her strong, creative, and strategic skills to build and elevate support for STEM education and research.

August 27

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

DEEP Dive Session - Part 2

They Are Not the Same: Why Your Top Fundraisers Shouldn't Be the CDO

Too often in the sector, exceptional fundraisers are promoted into leadership roles based on their ability to raise money, NOT their ability to lead, coach, and motivate people. This session challenges a deeply-embedded assumption and invites participants to rethink what effective nonprofit leadership ACTUALLY requires.

We'll explore the distinction between fundraising performance and people-management, exploring why tactical brilliance does not exactly translate into readiness to lead.

Brianne Gerzevske, MA, CFRE

Director of Managed Contributor Care
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod

Bri Gerzevske, MA, CFRE, is a nonprofit fundraising professional, speaker, and champion of unconventional leadership. With experience in fundraising, consulting, and team management, she explores how curiosity, belonging, and a little bit of oddball thinking can help teams build stronger cultures and better results.

August 26

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

DEEP Dive Session - Part 1

You're in the Will. Now What? Messages that expand legacy fundraising success into major and annual giving growth

This session will explore key trends in funding, including what younger donors in the 25–45-year age will be seeking and how innovation is needed to unlock the growing Donor Advised Fund opportunity. It will talk about trends with wealth advisors and how to work with them to get their clients to be more generous to your organization.

Russell James III, J.D., Ph.D., CFP 

Director of Graduate Studies in Charitable Planning, Professor & CH Foundation Chair in Personal Financial Planning
Texas Tech University

Russell James, J.D., Ph.D., CFP® is a professor in the School of Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving).  He graduated, cum laude, from the University of Missouri School of Law where he was a member of the Missouri Law Review and received the United Missouri Bank Award for Most Outstanding Work in Gift and Estate Taxation and Planning. He also holds a Ph.D. in consumer economics from the University of Missouri, where his dissertation was on charitable giving. He is as an Honorary Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estates Counsel (ACTEC) and a member of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners Hall of Fame.

Prior to his career as an academic researcher, Dr. James worked as the Director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri for 6 years and later served as president of the college for more than 5 years. During his presidency the college successfully completed two major capital campaigns, built several new debt-free buildings, and more than tripled enrollment.

Dr. James has published research in more than 80 peer-reviewed scientific journal and law review articles.  He is author of several books including The Storytelling Fundraiser, The Socratic Fundraiser, The Biblical Fundraiser, Inside the Mind of the Bequest Donor, and Visual Planned Giving.  He has been quoted in a variety of news sources including The New York Times, CNN, and the Chronicle of Philanthropy and his financial neuroimaging research was profiled in The Wall Street Journal’s Smart Money Magazine.

August 26

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

DEEP Dive Session - Part 2

You're in the Will. Now What? Messages that expand legacy fundraising success into major and annual giving growth

This session will explore key trends in funding, including what younger donors in the 25–45-year age will be seeking and how innovation is needed to unlock the growing Donor Advised Fund opportunity. It will talk about trends with wealth advisors and how to work with them to get their clients to be more generous to your organization.

August 26

12:50 p.m.-1:50 p.m.

Trust, Not Control: The Case for Unrestricted Major Gifts

Nonprofits are asked to deliver greater impact in an unstable environment, yet many major gifts come with restrictions that limit flexibility, weaken long-term planning, and underfund the true cost of the work. This session addresses a persistent leadership challenge: donors often see unrestricted giving as less accountable. In this session, fundraisers will learn to reframe conversations, build trust, advocate for ethical funding, and strengthen sustainability through unrestricted gifts.

Mary Petersen

Major Gifts Consultant
Hey Fundraiser!

Mary Petersen is a fundraising strategist, coach, and host of the Hey Fundraiser! podcast. She helps nonprofit leaders and major and planned gift officers build confidence, strengthen donor relationships, and raise more money through authentic, trust-based conversations. Known for her humor and practical wisdom, Mary empowers fundraisers to overcome fear and take bold action toward transformational gifts. She lives in Oregon with her husband, Tim, and two golden retrievers, Todd and Kevin.

August 26

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

From Gut to Grounded: using Your Donor Data to Make Smarter Decisions

Many organizations sit on valuable donor data without using it effectively. This session explores how to mine your CRM for patterns, surface "hidden major donors," and segment supporters by behavior—not assumptions—helping teams without formal prospect research make smarter, more strategic fundraising decisions.

Jenny Pratt, CFRE CAP

Sr. Director, Gift Officer Development
Washington University in St. Louis

Jenny Pratt onboards, coaches, and champions WashU gift officers. Before WashU, she helped The Muny close a $100M campaign and led fundraising and leadership programs for two sororities. She also produces and directs She Said St. Louis, a storytelling event amplifying women. Jenny is a grid paper person, still dreams of working on College GameDay, has a pen aisle problem, knows there’s a right way to load the dishwasher, owns a favorite plate, and bleeds Dodger blue—even in Busch Stadium.

August 26

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Utilizing Planned and Blended Gifts to Inspire Generosity

Looking to maximize your gift options to inspire generosity to your organization? While providing an overview of planned giving, strategies to optimize your fundraising outcomes will be covered, and we will take a deeper dive into topics such as QCDs and blended gifts. We will also delve into tax-wise strategies and how to communicate these advantages effectively to inspire giving. Lisa Welch from WashU will lead this session, drawing on her experience with successful planned giving programs.

Lisa Welch, JD

Director of Planned Giving
Washington University in St. Louis

As a Director of Planned Giving at WashU, Lisa builds long-term relationships and plans with individuals by aligning their philanthropic goals with the university's mission through planned gifts including bequests, life-income gifts, real estate, and outright gifts. Lisa began her career an estate and wealth transfer attorney before joining planned giving. Lisa has successfully grown three planned giving capital campaigns. Lisa earned her BS in Business and Law Degree from St. Louis University.

August 27

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

Is Your Organization Ready for a Campaign?

Is your organization truly prepared to launch a successful campaign? This presentation explores the critical elements needed before taking that step, including strategic alignment, resource readiness, audience clarity, and internal capacity. Attendees will gain practical insights to assess strengths, identify gaps, and build a solid foundation that increases the likelihood of meaningful engagement, measurable impact, and long-term success.

Yvette LeGear Hartsfield, MA, CFRE, CAP

Vice President, Campaigns
Let's Build Hope

Yvette LeGear Hartsfield, MA, CFRE, CAP, is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 30 years of experience building high-impact fundraising programs across St. Louis. As a fundraising professional, she has raised millions for organizations including the Missouri Historical Society and Gilda’s Club. A recognized leader, she holds CFRE and CAP credentials and was named 2024 Outstanding Fundraising Executive by AFP.

August 27

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

Learn New Tricks: A Practical Guide to Launch Planned Giving

In 2018, the Animal Protective Association of Missouri launched a Planned Giving Advisory Council of attorneys, advisors, and wealth managers. Since then, APA has secured more than $27M in planned gifts. This session shares how to build a successful planned giving program, identify likely donors, use simple giving vehicles, leverage volunteers and advisors, and create lasting financial sustainability for your mission.

Sarah Javier, MPPA, CDFT 

President & CEO
Animal Protective Association of Missouri (APA)

Sarah Javier is President & CEO of the Animal Protective Association of Missouri, where she has led since 2016. Under her leadership, APA doubled in size, expanded services to 10,000+ pets annually, and launched a planned giving program securing $27M+ since 2018. She serves on the boards of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement and Coalition for Pet Progress. A recognized DEI leader, she is a 2025 Titan 100 honoree and 2024 UMSL Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.

Ashley Holmes

President
The Casan Company LLC

August 27

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

It's Not "Daffy" - New Strategies for Inspiring Donors with DAFs

Giving to donor-advised funds dramatically increased at the end of 2025. One trust saw a 140 percent increase in DAFs. Tax law changes were one big reason. And big stock market gains meant donors could avoid paying capital gains taxes by donating stocks to DAFs. Understand why giving to DAFs has trended. And explore strategies that will inspire donors to recommend DAF distributions to your nonprofit this year – and not wait to make an impact.

Michael Rubin, CFRE, MBA, ACC

Founder and President
Michael D. Rubin & Associates

Michael Rubin, MBA, CFRE, ACC is president of Rubin & Associates, a full-service fundraising consulting firm empowering nonprofits to achieve their missions & dreams. In fundraising for 43 years, Michael works to improve measurable outcomes for clients. Pre-consulting, he was on staff at Lincoln Park Zoo, Rush University Medical Center & Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. Michael has a BA from Michigan, MBA from Northwestern & is an Intl. Coaching Federation Associate Certified Coach.

August 27

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

"That's So Major"

“That’s So Major” is your totally practical guide to landing big gifts without the drama. We’ll demystify major donors (spoiler: they’re just people), ditch the awkward ask, and share what actually works. Expect real talk, a few myths busted, and tools you can use immediately...because major gifts shouldn’t feel so…major.

Sarah Melinger

Co-Founder
RaiseUp Collaborative

15+ years of nonprofit leadership across arts, higher education, and civic organizations. Experience includes annual fund, major gifts, campaigns, board development, and strategic planning. Former corporate professional building systems for major brands. Known for strong relationship-building. Holds a BA in Economics from Washington University and has served as Executive Director, Development Director, and Foundation President.

Meredith Friedman

Co-Founder
RaiseUp Collaborative

Meredith Friedman has 20 years of nonprofit leadership and development experience, specializing in helping organizations transform performance through clear strategy and goal-setting. She brings hands-on leadership, energy, and strong strategic thinking, and is known for developing effective leaders and fundraisers. Meredith holds a CFRE, a Certificate in Fundraising for CEOs from the Brown School, and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Olin.

August 27

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Grief & Philanthropy: Honoring Life Through Generosity

This session explores how grief and generosity intersect, highlighting volunteerism, memorial gifts, and legacy giving as meaningful expressions of remembrance and healing. Participants will discuss nonprofits' role during times of loss, including how to navigate timing, communication, and ethical considerations. The session will explore how to create pathways for tribute gifts, planned giving, and volunteer engagement that honor both the life of the deceased and the needs of those left behind.

Eric Heininger, CFRE, MBA

President
EDEN+ Fundraising Consulting

Eric Heininger is the Founder and President of Eden+ Fundraising Consulting. Eric brings more than a decade of fundraising experience to Des Moines, Iowa. He has conducted capital campaigns and feasibility studies nationwide, managed portfolios of grants, created corporate sponsorship plans, and coordinated major gift fundraising efforts. He is a certified Association of Fundraising Professionals Master Trainer and recognized by the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy as a 40 Under 40.

August 26

09:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

More than One Gift: Involving Your Donors in Your Fundraising Efforts

Participants will explore how engaging donors beyond giving can transform fundraising success. Through storytelling, relationship-building, and meaningful involvement opportunities, this session shows how donors can become better advocates and ambassadors for your mission. Attendees will learn practical strategies, review data on donor engagement, and leave with an action plan to involve supporters more deeply and expand their organization’s impact.

C. F. Callihan, Master of Arts Philanthropic Studies

Founder & Chief Strategic Officer
Heart Strategy Impact

Charles “C.F.” Callihan II is the Founder and Chief Strategist of Heart Strategy Impact, a fundraising consultancy helping small and mid-sized nonprofits grow individual giving through clear strategy and relationship-centered systems. With nearly two decades of experience, he equips nonprofit leaders with practical tools to strengthen donor loyalty, build sustainable major gift programs, and raise more while stressing less.

August 26

10:40 a.m.-11:40 a.m.

If Your Fundraising is Built on Scarcity- Donors Can Feel It

If your fundraising feels like chasing, convincing, or proving your worth, you may be operating from a scarcity-driven model that’s limiting your results. This session challenges outdated approaches and introduces a new way to engage donors—rooted in confidence, connection, and influence—so you can build relationships that lead to consistent, sustainable giving.

Maryanne Dersch

Founder
Courageous Communication

Maryanne Dersch is the founder of Courageous Communication and a nationally recognized nonprofit strategist who helps fundraisers evolve beyond transactional, scarcity-driven approaches. With 30 years in the sector, she equips leaders to build donor relationships grounded in confidence, clarity, and influence—not pressure. She is the author of Courageous Communication and host of The Influential Nonprofit podcast and Donor Attraction Forum.

August 26

 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

The New Rules of Donor Engagement: Technology-Driven Stewardship

Nonprofits are facing growing challenges capturing donor attention and communicating meaningful impact. This presentation will explore how technology is deepening donor engagement, sharing practical insights and real-world examples from leading national nonprofits.

Attendees will learn how to uncover emotionally resonant stories, use donor segmentation to deliver the right message to the right audience, and leverage digital tools to create more engaging, personalized donor experiences.

Gabriel Harkov, MBA

VP of Sales
Storyraise

Gabriel Harkov is a nonprofit technology strategist and sales leader with over a decade of experience helping organizations communicate their impact more effectively. As VP of Sales at Storyraise, he has helped hundreds of nonprofits create personalized digital reports and videos that deepen donor relationships and bring their missions to life.

Gabriel's career spans working for nonprofits and with them, giving him a ground-level understanding of the challenges fundraisers face every day.

August 27

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

From Story to Strategy: Strengthening Fundraising Through Narrative

This session explores how nonprofit leaders can use storytelling and narrative change to strengthen fundraising and shift how their work is understood. Participants will learn how to move beyond deficit-based messaging, craft compelling stories rooted in dignity and impact, and build authentic connections with funders and supporters.

Gabi Cole, MNM

Founder and Chief Empathy Officer
Gabi Cole Social Enterprise

Gabi is a public health advocate and fundraising consultant rooted in North St. Louis. With 13 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, and racial equity, she supports organizations in building values-driven, community-centered fundraising strategies. Her work blends lived experience, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to equity, helping organizations strengthen donor relationships and access sustainable resources.

August 27

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Big Donor Love on a Small Budget: Creative Engagement That Works

Looking for better ways to engage donors—especially when your mission is hard to visualize? Many fundraisers have strong ideas but face limited time, staff, and budgets. This session shares innovative, mission-centered, cost-effective strategies to deepen relationships, bring impact to life, and stand out—without stretching your resources.

Lyndsey Reichardt, MPA, CFRE

Chief Advancement Officer
The Oasis Institute

Lyndsey Reichardt, MPA, CFRE, is Chief Advancement Officer at Oasis, leading national fundraising, marketing, and communications. She served as AFP St. Louis Chapter President (2020–2021) and has held multiple committee and board roles. Named Young Professional Fundraiser of the Year (2014) and a St. Louis Business Journal 30 Under 30 honoree (2011), she enjoys reading, Burn Boot Camp, coffee, and wine.

Lauren Finan

Development Manager
The Oasis Institute

Lauren Finan is the Development Manager at Oasis, where she leads national direct mail campaigns, creates donor communications, and supports grant writing, major giving, and other initiatives. She holds certificates in grant writing and nonprofit leadership from Washington University St. Louis and serves as Emerging Professionals Chair on the AFP St. Louis Board. She’s a two-time AFP Fellow, 2025 Outstanding Emerging Professional Award recipient and an advocate for community-centric fundraising.

August 27

3:10 p.m.-4:10 p.m.

Video Strategies Beyond Fund the Need Videos

After briefly highlighting the importance of event videos, such as Fund the Need videos, a panel of guest speakers will share insights and best practices for leveraging other types of videos that nonprofits can use to meet their fundraising objectives. Learn new ideas from real-life examples and leave with practical tips for engaging donors with videos in new ways.

Patrick Delhougne

CEO & Executive Producer
Noeso

Patrick Delhougne is the CEO at Noeso (Know-Ee-So), a company that specializes in creating fundraising videos. His background also includes 10 years of fundraising experience at the St. Louis Area Foodbank and Washington University School of Medicine. He has made seven short films that have screened at films festivals worldwide.