ICON IDEA-Related Sessions
In addition to inspiring keynote speakers, meaningful networking opportunities, and engaging breakout education sessions, AFP ICON 2026 offers initiatives designed to foster inclusion and help you thrive throughout the conference.
Don't forget to visit the AFP HUB in the AFP Exchange, where we'll have an AFP IDEA table staffed by AFP to discuss all things inclusion, diversity, equity and access.
IDEA-Focused Breakout Education Sessions
Community Engagement for Smaller Nonprofits: The Fishbowl Effect
Sunday, April 26
9:00 am–10:00 am
BALLROOM 20 D
Introductory/Foundational
Education track: Relationship Building
Are you newer to the nonprofit fundraising sector? Not sure how to start building relationships in your community? Well, this session is for you! Executive Director, Alix Gasser, will lead you through some tried and true methods to build relationships in your community. This session is built for smaller nonprofit organizations in small to mid-sized communities, though there are ideas for all!
Speaker(s): Alix Gasser, MBA
How to Prepare for The Fundraising (R)evolution
Sunday, April 26
9:00 am–10:00 am
BALLROOM 20 B/C
Applied
Relationship Building
It’s about time we have a much-needed conversation about the changing landscape of fundraising. Join us for a conversation exploring the transformative shift from donor-centric to community-centric fundraising practices. Our expert panelists will unpack the practical strategies, challenges, and successes in redefining philanthropic relationships to center community expertise and collective impact. Learn how to navigate this evolution while strengthening donor relationships and advancing social justice values in their fundraising approaches.
Speaker(s): Hannah Berger, CFRE; Yuri Casco, CFRE; Rachel D’Souza, MLS, MPPA; Frank Velásquez Jr., MEd
Rising Leaders: Empowering Young Black Fundraisers
Sunday, April 26
9:00 am–10:00 am
31 A/B
Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Explore the experiences of young Black professionals in fundraising through an interactive session on equity, empowerment, and leadership. Gain insights, share strategies, and walk away with tools to support a more inclusive and impactful philanthropic sector. Ideal for emerging fundraisers and leaders committed to change.
Speaker(s): Azha Simmons, MA, MBA; Alia Lundy; Nefertiti Martin; Jeremiah Lineberger, M.S.
Understanding Jewish Philanthropy
Sunday, April 26
9:00 am–10:00 am
33 A/B
Securing the Gift
Jewish philanthropy has long history and is estimated to exceed $50B in the US annually. A third of top philanthropists are Jewish. In the past few years, this group of givers has made headlines as we navigate changes in the world, and cultural discussions that are far from easy. Join us as we explore the history, perspectives and key goals of Jewish donors. In this session, we’ll explore the diversity of Jewish philanthropy from three perspectives: that of a Jewish mega-donor, the fundraiser for a transformative Jewish community in Los Angeles, and a constantly learning non-Jew who has helped them.
Speaker(s): Brian Gawor, CFRE; Lisa Greer; Elad Dvash-Banks
Not Just a Seat at the Table: Building Fundraising Careers That Reimagine the Status Quo
Sunday, April 26
10:30 am–11:30 am
33 A/B
Strategic
Education track: Leadership and Management
What if professional development wasn’t about fitting in – but about breaking molds? This session features a cross-generational panel of BIMPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ fundraisers who’ve built careers on their own terms. Together, they’ll share how they’ve turned identity into power, authenticity into growth, and mentorship into movement. If you’re tired of being told to wait your turn or shrink your brilliance, this session is your invitation to take up space – and take your career with you.
Speaker(s): Jamie Leon-Guerrero; Arleen Peterson, ECRF; Daa'iyah Rahman
Putting Principles Into Practice: A Case Study on Building More Equitable, Community-Rooted
Sunday, April 26
10:30 am–11:30 am
26 A/B
Applied
Fundraising Strategies
Education track: Relationship Building
Join the California Budget & Policy Center for a candid look at how we’ve been putting community-centric fundraising into practice. In this session, we’ll share our journey—why we made the shift, what we’ve changed, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way. You’ll hear real examples, honest reflections, and practical insights for applying community-centric principles in your own fundraising work. Whether you're just starting or looking to deepen your approach, this session will offer inspiration and actionable takeaways for building more equitable, community-rooted fundraising strategies.
Speaker(s): Katherine Robles-Ayala; Emma Carmody; Matthew Easterwood, CFRE, CAP
The Emotional Labor of the Ask: Finding Wholeness in Fundraising for Marginalized Identities
Sunday, April 26
10:30 am–11:30 am
32 A/B
Applied
Education track: Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
For queer, BIPOC, and other marginalized fundraisers: navigate the emotional toll of the ask, weigh authenticity vs. assimilation, set boundaries, and connect with peers in this vital interactive session.
Speaker(s): Marcus Cunningham; Clarena Tobon; Shea Wylen; Catherine Ashton
Boldly Brown: The Impact of Intentional Commitment on Engagement and Philanthropy Among Alumni of Color
Sunday, April 26
4:30 pm–5:30 pm
32 A/B
Applied
Education track: Leadership and Management
Seven years ago, Brown University’s Division of Advancement made a bold, intentional commitment to embed diversity and inclusion into its philanthropic practices. As part of the BrownTogether campaign, the Division created a Director of Diversity and Inclusion Major Gift Officer role, an innovative step designed to strengthen relationships and expand philanthropic engagement among all alumni, with an emphasis on diverse communities.
The panel will explore how intentional commitment, shared leadership, and strategic collaboration can build authentic relationships, elevate donor participation, and create lasting institutional change.
Speaker(s): Alyssia Coates, PhD; Russell Malbrough; Joelle Murchison; Brickson Diamond, MBA
From Young Pro to Emerging Leader: How to Maximize AFP to Build Your Career!
Sunday, April 26
4:30 pm–5:30 pm
33 A/B
Applied
Education track: Leadership and Management
What we are hearing: “Emerging Leaders are jack-of-all-trades, masters of none.” With a projected 10-year growth in the fundraising profession of 14%, emerging leaders need to strategically maximize their growth potential. Hear how four young, diverse professionals catapulted their careers by maximizing their professional experience to become leaders.
Speaker(s): Chessie Hayes, CFRE, MPA, CNP; Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP; Jarrod Williams, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator, MBLI; Dzenan Berberovic, CFRE, MA
AI Won’t Fix Your Bias: A Framework for Building AI Equity in the Nonprofit Sector
Monday, April 27
8:30 am–9:30 am
BALLROOM 20 A
Introductory/Foundational
Education track: Current and Prospective Donor Research
AI won’t fix your bias—but you can. In this session, we will learn about a nonprofit-specific AI Equity Framework to help us mitigate algorithmic harm that can happen around us. Whether you are exploring tools for donor analysis or program automation, this session provides clarity on what ethical AI means in practice and how you, as a nonprofit leader, can ensure equity-first AI implementation. The session will provide you with a framework, numerous examples, and actionable lists to follow.
Speaker(s): Meena Das, M.S., MCA
Activating Board Fundraising: Stories, Struggles, and Strategies
Monday, April 27
10:45 am–11:45 am
33 A/B
Strategic
Education track: Volunteer Involvement
According to research, securing support from board members for fundraising is one of the top challenges that nonprofit leaders must navigate. There are several challenges contributing to this, including unclear role definitions, inadequate training, fear, unclear cases for support, ineffective governance systems, exclusive cultures, and inequities. Join this workshop and learn from a diverse group of practitioners and consultants about everyday board fundraising struggles, effective strategies that have worked, and resources to support your efforts. Whether you are a new fundraiser, executive director, or consultant, you can walk away with ideas and strategies to activate volunteer board members in fundraising.
Speaker(s): Jonathan Meagher-Zayas, CFRE, MSW, MPA, CDP; Derek Mulhern, PCC; Adrienne Longenecker, CFRE; Rochelle Jerry, CFRM
Beyond Borders: Equality, Collaboration & Modern Philanthropy
Monday, April 27
10:45 am–11:45 am
BALLROOM 20 A
Introductory/Foundational
Education track:Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
Philanthropy today transcends geography, sector and identity. This panel explores how collaboration, trust and equity are redefining modern philanthropy, whether across national boundaries or within our own communities.
Rooted in the spirit of cross-border partnership, this conversation invites funders, nonprofits and community leaders to reflect on what it means to give and lead beyond traditional limits. Panelists will share how they’re navigating issues of power, culture and shared impact in their work from binational giving and collective philanthropy to inclusive leadership and community-driven solutions.
Speaker(s): Lety Martinez Hermosillo, MA; Andy Carey; Giannina Perez, MPP; Adrianna O’Donnell, CFRE, MBA
Funding with Pride: Navigating LGBTQ+ Donor Shifts and Nonprofit Strategies in a Shifting Landscape
Monday, April 27
10:45 am–11:45 am
28 D/E
Applied
Education track: Relationship Building
LGBTQ+ donors and nonprofits are navigating funding cuts, political pressure, and shifting expectations. This session explores how nonprofits are adapting and shifting strategies and how LGBTQ+ donors are responding. Walk away with insights, data, and strategies to fundraise effectively and inclusively in today’s uncertain philanthropic landscape.
Speaker(s): Brian Williams, MFA; Charles Callihan, MA
Storytelling for Good: Using Narrative and Data to Strengthen Equity and Engagement
Monday, April 27
10:45 am–11:45 am
BALLROOM 20 B/C
Applied
Education track: Securing the Gift
Learn how to craft compelling, ethical stories that drive donor action without compromising the dignity of those served. This session explores the power of combining data with community-centered narratives to create proposals and appeals that resonate with funders and inspire meaningful engagement. Participants will gain tools to strengthen messaging during times of funding uncertainty and policy shifts, and leave with practical strategies for storytelling that foster trust, equity, and lasting support.
Speaker(s): Jordan Kirkbride
The Radical Future of Belonging: A Time-Traveler’s Lab for Brave Leaders (Presented by Alford Group)
Monday, April 27
10:45 am–11:45 am
32 A/B
Education track: Leadership and Management
In an era of shifting tides, many leaders are frozen, waiting for the storm to pass. But history reveals that institutional headwind isn’t a pause in progress—it’s a threshold.
Join Humanist Psychologist Dr. Gloria Chance and a panel of visionary leaders for a highly engaging experiential lab. Move beyond survival and use Creative Inquiry to create a more resilient, humane future. Together, we will:
- Bridge Polarization: Forge trust through courageous, inclusive dialogue.
- Time-Travel: Shift from reaction to possibility-driven strategy.
- Activate Leadership: Model the courage required to reshape our sector.
- Stop watching the future happen. Come build it!
Speaker(s): Gloria Chance, PhD; Alex Kim, MA, NPLM; Wendy McKinney, CFRE; Megan Hayward
Beyond the Surface: How FORGE and MOCID Are Reshaping Professional Belonging
Monday, April 27
1:45 pm–2:45 pm
32 A/B
Applied
Education track: Ethics, Accountability and Professionalism
MOCID and AFP Global are partnering to translate FORGE (Fairness, Openness, Respect, Grace, Empathy) into practical behaviors and systems that strengthen belonging in the fundraising profession. You’ll be in a safe space for candid dialogue, shared learning, and practical strategies that help the sector move beyond intention and toward meaningful change. By engaging Men Of Color In Development as thought partners in shaping the future of fundraising, the workshop strengthens AFP Global’s initiative on Fairness, Openness, Respect, Grace, and Empathy (FORGE) ability to address equity, representation, and leadership in ways that are both authentic and actionable.
Speaker(s): Marcus Brewer; Chris Beck; Ken Miller, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator; Jackson Davis
What Could Be: Building a Neuroinclusive Future for Fundraising
Monday, April 27
1:45 pm–2:45 pm
28 D/E
Applied
Education track: Leadership and Management
As burnout conversations grow louder in the fundraising sector, one critical lens is often missing: neurodiversity. Many non-profit professionals feel pressure to “mask” — adjusting communication styles, suppressing needs, or navigating environments not built for their brains. The hidden cost of masking, in turn, contributes further to a sector struggling to retain fundraising professionals.
Together, we will examine the emotional toll of masking, reflect on the norms and practices that make it necessary, and reimagine fundraising culture — exploring how we retain talent, honor neurodivergent strengths, and redesign systems that allow more people to thrive.
Speaker(s): Nicole Bela, CFRE
Beyond Borders: Culturally Conscious Fundraising for a Global, Inclusive Future
Monday, April 27
3:15 pm–4:15 pm
28 D/E
Strategic
Education track: Relationship Building
Discover how culture, identity, and innovation intersect in modern fundraising. Join Kevin Chi and Jennifer Li Dotson for an energizing session on inclusive strategies that honor diverse philanthropic traditions and build bridges.
Speaker(s): Jennifer Dotson, MSc, CAP; Kevin Chi, CFRE
Islam & Philanthropy: Learn About Faith Driven Impact
Monday, April 27
3:15 pm–4:15 pm
28 A-C
Strategic
Education track: Relationship Building
Join us for an inspiring session on Islam & Philanthropy, exploring the rich traditions of giving in Islam—zakat (tithing), sadaqah (giving), and waqf (endowments)—and their relevance to modern fundraising. Understanding Islamic philanthropic principles is crucial for fundraisers aiming to engage with Muslim communities effectively. By appreciating the religious and cultural contexts of giving, fundraisers can build meaningful relationships and design campaigns that truly resonate with Muslim donors' values and motivations.
Speaker(s): Muhi Khwaja, CFRE, MA, AFP Certified Facilitator; Sana Mahboob
Continuing the Conversation on Being an Equitable, Inclusive, and Diverse Leader
Tuesday, April 28
10:00 am–11:00 am
31 A/B
Applied
Education track: Leadership and Management
Join us for an engaging and inspiring conversation that will explore the leadership skills needed to thrive in complex, evolving environments. You’ll gain practical strategies and actionable insights to help you lead with purpose—whether in your organization, your community, or your own personal journey. To tackle today’s most pressing challenges, we need leaders at every level who lead with inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) at the core. This session brings together a panel of diverse, experienced leaders who embody these principles in both their personal and professional lives.
Speaker(s): Majoy Camberos, MA; Don Baker, AFP Certified Facilitator; Michael Baker, CFRE, AFP Certified Facilitator; Sana Mahboob; Ana Luisa Ramirez, MBA, AFP Certified Facilitator
The Tapestry of Culture: Cultivation, Stewardship, and Philanthropy Rooted in Diaspora Leadership
Tuesday, April 28
10:00 am–11:00 am
28 D/E
Applied
Education track: Relationship Building
When fundraising meets cultural alignment, everything changes. This case study session features a fundraising and grant consultant joined by her client, a nonprofit leader serving a diaspora community. They share how a culturally responsive fundraising strategy reshaped board engagement, donor trust, and long-term sustainability.
Speaker(s): David Bulindah, PhD; Christine Enetak, CFRE