Session Description: At the heart of transformational philanthropy is a well-crafted gift proposition that connects a donor’s passion with an institution’s vision. But developing compelling, high-level propositions that inspire action requires more than just stating a need. This session explores a framework for creating “big idea,” high-level gift propositions that attract big gifts. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, participants will learn how to, and how not to, articulate transformational opportunities that emphasize vision, impact, and urgency—whether they’re seeking support for capital projects, endowed positions, innovative programs, or anything in between.

Session Description: Discover how AI can transform advancement services through practical, real-world applications. Ross Imbler from the University of Canterbury will showcase innovative AI solutions, including efficient fund management, semi-autonomous data cleaning workflows, accelerated prospect research, and prompt engineering strategies. Gain actionable insights and easily implementable ideas to rapidly enhance your operations.

Session Description: In a world marked by global uncertainty, how can educational institutions sustain and grow cultures of philanthropy? Explore how international schools and universities are navigating economic, social, and political shifts while honoring local customs and community values. This session offers case studies and dialogue on resilient strategies that foster authentic engagement and long-term investment.

Session Description: In today’s world of constant disruptions—be it geopolitical conflict, economic instability, or social unrest—institutions must navigate growing uncertainty while staying true to their mission. This session explores how the American University of Beirut has continued to advance its efforts in alumni relations, fundraising, and institutional advancement amid ongoing crisis and disruption. Through this powerful living case study, participants will gain insight into how resilience, adaptability, and strategic clarity can sustain advancement work even in the most difficult environments. Leave inspired with practical lessons and ideas on how to embrace uncertainty, prepare for the unexpected, and continue progressing toward your institution’s advancement goals, no matter the challenges ahead.

Session Description: Like many non-profit organisations, universities can be resource-strapped, leading to IT infrastructure and work processes being frozen in time. A tech refresh would be the obvious answer, if not for the cost and time needed. Faced with limited resources, Advancement at the Singapore University of Technology and Design applied robotic process automation (RPA) to stewardship operations, leading to a 16% decrease in man hours worked in 2024 and way more for subsequent years.

Session Description: In a pioneering step to make chronic pain education a central focus of medical training in Australia, the University of Notre Dame Australia has secured a transformative $5 million philanthropic gift to establish the Churack Chair of Chronic Pain Education and Research. This session will offer an inside look at the strategic, relational, and emotional elements behind securing the largest philanthropic gift in the university’s history. Thanks to the Churack Family’s extraordinary generosity, Notre Dame becomes the first Australian university to integrate chronic pain education as a central part of its medical program, setting a new global precedent. Chronic pain affects one in five Australians but has long been overlooked in medical curricula. The Churack Chair will address this gap by equipping our Fremantle-based medical students to treat vulnerable patients suffering from chronic pain. As the endowment grows, the Chair will expand its impact through nationwide initiatives, scholarships, and community outreach programs. This session will explore how the visionary gift is transforming both education and healthcare practices in chronic pain management across Western Australia and beyond.

Session Description: Join UNSW Sydney to explore how 360 Impact transformed a traditional donor event into an innovative engagement platform showcasing philanthropic impact. This session shares insights into strategic collaboration across fundraising, donor experience, and communications. Attendees will gain actionable insights into designing donor experiences that blend storytelling, interactivity and purpose. From overcoming logistical challenges to leveraging donor attendance for ongoing communications content, this session offers creative ideas for donor stewardship.

Session Description: "It must be nice to have all that free labor!" This off-handed remark about a Marketing Internship Program can make a Marketing Team laugh. While having 5-7 unpaid interns sounds appealing, establishing an effective program requires significant effort. However, with the right amount of attention and flexibility, interning high school students with your marketing team can have unexpected benefits far beyond “free labor.” Hear how HKIS' Advancement Office High School Internship Program has become a permanent fixture to its Marketing Team.