1:15-2:15PM

Leading with Clarity: Executive Perspectives on AI Strategy, Governance, and Culture

Presenters: Joe Brazier, Christy Devocelle, Mark Koenig, Greg Willems

Program Description: This plenary brings together CEO, CFO/COO, and CIO leaders to explore the most pressing questions shaping AI adoption in higher education foundation environments. Through a guided conversation, panelists will tackle the strategic case for AI, how to evaluate ROI, and what it takes to explain data governance in ways that leaders can act on. They will also address the balance between innovation and stakeholder confidence, the governance gaps that matter most, and the cultural shifts required to help teams build curiosity rather than fear. The session closes with practical, human‑centered approaches to building AI literacy across an institution without overwhelming staff.

Learning Objectives: 

• Define the strategic case for AI in higher education foundations and understand how AI supports mission‑aligned operations and long‑term impact.
• Evaluate ROI for AI initiatives using meaningful metrics, cost‑benefit considerations, and success indicators relevant to advancement and administrative functions.
• Explain essential data governance concepts in clear, actionable terms that support informed leadership decision‑making and organizational accountability.
• Identify cultural shifts and human‑centered strategies necessary to build AI literacy, foster curiosity, and strengthen stakeholder confidence while avoiding overwhelm.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Elements of Engagement: Case Study; Q&A 

2:45-3:45PM

Demystifying Alternative Investments

Presenters: Sarah Hintz, CPA; Lacey Quatsoe, CPA; Alex Slivka

Program Description: This session is designed to unravel the complexities of alternative investments—such as private equity, hedge funds, real estate, and commodities—from both audit and tax perspectives. Participants will gain clarity on the unique risks, compliance requirements, and reporting challenges these investments present, but also review examples of the financial opportunities these investments provide.

Understanding Alternative Investments: Explore what constitutes an alternative investment and why these assets are increasingly part of university foundation portfolios. Learn about the role of alternatives in diversification and long-term growth.

• Audit Considerations: Discover best practices for confirming the existence and valuation of alternative investments, including the use of third-party confirmations, risk assessments based on audited financial statements, and procedures for addressing valuation challenges.
• Tax Implications: Demystify the tax treatment of alternative investments, focusing on unrelated business taxable income (UBTI), debt-financed investments, and flow-through entities such as partnerships and S-corps. Understand how borrowing by the foundation or investee impacts tax liability, and what information should be collected for accurate reporting.
• Operational Guidance: Learn how proactive tax planning, continuous communication, and collaboration with audit teams can streamline compliance and enhance the foundation’s ability to respond to new tax issues and opportunities. The session will also address multi-state and international considerations.

Learning Objectives: 

• Gain a clear understanding of alternative investments, their audit and tax implications and other pros and cons of holding these investments.
• Identify common challenges and best practices for oversight and compliance.
   

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Accounting
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Elements of Engagement: Group Discussion; Q&A 

2:45-3:45PM

AI for Real Life: Personal Productivity & Workflows Across Copilot

Presenters: Joe Brazier

Program Description: This interactive session shows how Copilot can streamline your daily work in higher education. We will dig into some of the great features that allow for better personalization, such as using the prompt gallery, scheduling prompts, reviewing Memory, and leveraging Instructions. Participants will learn how to save effective prompts, use Memory and Instructions to save time, and discuss workflows across Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Power Platform. We’ll cover data boundary patterns and sensitive information handling so you can use Copilot responsibly. By the end, you’ll have ready to use prompts and tips to personalize Copilot to accelerate your productivity and collaboration. 

Learning Objectives:

• Understand key Copilot features—including the Prompt Gallery, scheduled prompts, Memory, and Instructions—that support personalization.
• Create and save effective prompts to streamline recurring tasks.
• Use Memory and Instructions to reduce repetition and maintain context in daily work.
• Apply Copilot across Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Power Platform for productivity and collaboration.
• Recognize responsible-use practices, including data boundaries and sensitive information handling.
• Apply ready-to-use prompts and personalization strategies to accelerate productivity.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Computer Software & Applications
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Elements of Engagement: Polling; Q&A

4:00-5:00PM

Creation of an Innovation Fund: Objectives, Strategies and Outcomes

Presenter: Rodney Grabowski

Program Description: Great ideas can begin and die in a research lab. How do we support the incredible work of our research faculty and provide funding for them so that the ideas can be developed and capitalized on? Creation of a (UCF) Innovation fund with investors and donors is the answer.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand what an Innovation Fund is and why create one.
• Articulate the opportunity for investors and donors
• Understand the potential economic impact
• Competencies: Leadership; Relationship Building

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Element of Engagement: Case Study, Q&A 

4:00-5:00PM

After the Celebration: Campaign Architecture, Risk Planning, and What Comes Next

Presenter: Jamie McMahon

Program Description: When a major campaign concludes, and whether it meets, exceeds, or falls short of its goal, the real work begins. For college and university foundations, campaign design and sustainability planning are increasingly inseparable: boards, presidents, and donors expect campaigns to build lasting capacity, not just raise dollars. This session explores how foundations can structure campaigns that anticipate risk, align with institutional strategy, and set the stage for enduring engagement and financial health. Drawing from recent firsthand experience leading a $90 million campaign as well as additional campaign and strategic planning experience in the sector, the presenter will share frameworks for:

• Designing campaign architecture that embeds strategic priorities and measurable outcomes;
• Identifying and mitigating risks such as donor concentration, naming rights delays, and economic volatility;
• Transitioning from “campaign mode” to sustained fundraising and stewardship, including post-campaign messaging, staff alignment, and board engagement; and
• Considering the implications of the “always in campaign” mindset and how to balance readiness with donor and staff fatigue.

Learning Objectives:

• Map a campaign framework that ties fundraising priorities directly to institutional strategy and foundation capacity.
• Anticipate key risks and contingency points in campaign execution, donor commitments, and reputational management.
• Design a practical post-campaign sustainability plan that maintains momentum while preventing burnout and mission drift.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Element of Engagement: Case Study, Q&A

4:00-5:00PM

Creating Engaged and Highly Productive Teams - The Future of Talent Management in Advancement and Institutionally Related Foundations

Presenters: Tom Jennings, Ph.D.;Kim Tobin, Ph.D.; James H. Moore, Jr., B.S., M.S.

Program Description: A panel of seasoned university Advancement leaders will examine several dimensions of talent management in Advancement and Institutionally Related Foundations (IRFs):

• Industry Trends in Job Satisfaction and Turnover
• Recruiting and Search Challenges
• When to use a Search Firm
• Onboarding New Employees
• Hybrid and Remote Work
• Staffing Adjustments to Meet the Evolving Expectations of Institutional Leaders and Donors
• Managing Disruptions caused by Turnover
• Career Paths for Advancement and IRF staffs
  Predictions on the Future of Talent Management

Learning Objectives:

• Understand and articulate industry trends and best practices in talent management.
• Develop strategies for reducing turnover and recruiting top talent through more effective searches at their institutions.
• Understand the evolving expectations of institutional leaders, donors, and Advancement and IRF staff.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Element of Engagement: Q&A

9:45-10:45AM

From Data to Decisions: Finance Leaders Powering Foundation Strategy

Presenters: Nancy C. Pederson; Jason R. Ball, MBA; Allen Padilla; Allyson Peterson, CPA

Program Description: Explore how finance leaders use dashboards, KPIs, and data analytics to turn financial insight into mission impact. Learn how strategic reporting, clear storytelling, and strong partnerships help align resources, engage boards, and drive foundation strategy.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key financial KPIs and dashboard strategies that enhance transparency and guide mission-driven decision-making
• Strengthen cross-institutional alignment by leveraging data-driven collaboration models between foundation, university, and investment leadership.
• Strengthen long-term financial strategy by aligning short-term decisions with sustainable growth, collaboration, and mission impact.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Case Study; Q&A 

11:15AM-12:15PM

NIL’s Impact Across the University Ecosystem

Presenters: Lauren Haverlock, CPA; Joel Levenson; Donald Neal, Jr.

Program Description: As the landscape of college athletics undergoes a seismic shift with the advent of Name, Image & Likeness(NIL) regulations, colleges and universities are faced with unprecedented challenges and opportunities as this new economy evolves. This session will delve into the latest developments surrounding NIL, exploring its profound impact on athletics, reporting and the broader implications for universities and their stakeholders. Join us for this informative session to better understand the evolving NIL environment and to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate this new frontier in college athletics for the university ecosystem. With the legal landscape in this area evolving on a daily basis, this session promises to provide valuable insights and foster meaningful dialogue among all participants.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss latest NIL regulations and their implications for the university and its stakeholders.
• Recognize key operational, compliance, and strategic considerations associated with implementing NIL programs at their institutions.
• Develop actionable insights and approaches for navigating the NIL environment, including effective stakeholder communication, reporting, and program management.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Group Discussion, Q&A 

11:15AM-12:15PM

Engaging Volunteer Leadership and Top Donors as Legislative Advocates

Presenter: Andrew Foster 

Program Description: The Oregon State University Foundation operates an alumni legislative advocacy program that relies heavily on engaging top-level volunteers and donors, including Foundation Trustees. The advocacy effort was launched a decade ago when volunteer leaders recognized the need to maximize the impact of philanthropic giving by using it to leverage increased state investment. Since its launch, the program has also been a valuable tool for deepening volunteers relationships with the university, and driving philanthropy from engaged volunteers. This program will give an overview of how to engage top volunteers in advocacy, and explore how this effort enhances the effectiveness of legislative outreach and alumni/volunteer/donor engagement

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the value of deploying volunteer leadership, trustees and top donors as legislative advocates, both as effective messengers and as a tool for increasing engagement with these groups.
• Develop a grass tops legislative outreach plan.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Communications & Marketing
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Case Study, Q&A 

2:00-3:00PM

Amplifying Impact through Strategic Storytelling, Leadership Voices and Collaboration on LinkedIn

Presenters: Laura Pizzo, Jess Columbo

Program Description: LinkedIn is the #1 platform for professional engagement — how can universities harness it to build pride, strengthen relationships and deliver measurable results? Home to Oregon State University’s largest social following, and widely considered the most trusted social network, LinkedIn is a cornerstone of the social strategy for both Oregon State University and the OSU Foundation. Our social teams collaborate closely to amplify impact across organic and paid campaigns - and we have learned A LOT that we are excited to share with you!

In this session, we’ll share practical examples of how to empower internal advocates (such as executives, volunteer leaders and employees) to build trust, reputation and engagement, and how to break silos between institutional channels so everyone wins. Through a mix of presentation and interactive breakout discussions, you will learn actionable strategies to elevate your personal and your organization's LinkedIn presence and build a toolkit for measuring success.

Learning Objectives:

• Build a template for how to empower volunteer leaders, executives and employees to be brand ambassadors on the most trusted social network.
• Understand a few different types of LinkedIn ad strategies, how to apply them and what to expect in terms of cost and ROI.
• Review an example of successful collaboration between foundation and university digital marketers that they can deploy at their own institutions.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Communications & Marketing
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Case Study; Q&A

3:30-4:30PM

Building a Modern Foundation: Leading Change with Vision, Strategy, and Grit 

Presenters: Chad Hearne; Mary Lackie, Ed.D.

Program Description: Every foundation reaches a point where legacy systems, outdated policies, or ingrained habits begin to limit growth. This session explores how one Institutionally Related Foundation confronted those challenges head-on—rebuilding its structure, redefining its policies, and realigning its culture to become a modern, mission-driven organization. Learn how to lead transformative change with a clear vision, disciplined strategy, and the perseverance needed to bring your board, campus partners, and staff along for the journey. Attendees will leave with a roadmap for modernizing their own operations—grounded in best practices, transparency, and sustainable growth.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify common operational and governance challenges that limit foundation effectiveness.
• Apply practical strategies to modernize outdated policies, systems, and staffing structures.
• Engage boards and institutional leadership in a shared vision for transformation and accountability.

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Case Study, Q&A

3:30-4:30PM

Reimagining Work: Transitioning Fundraising Organizations to a Four-Day Workweek 

Presenters: Sarah Kenney; Sarah Schwarz, JD; Melissa Miguel, SHRM-CP

Program Description: In an era where burnout is rising and retention is a growing challenge, nonprofit fundraising organizations must rethink traditional work structures. This session explores the bold and transformative idea of shifting to a four-day work week without compromising mission impact or fundraising performance.

Through our real-world case study, participants will learn how the Portland State University Foundation has embarked on a one-year trial to optimize our systems, improve productivity, strengthen organizational culture, and enhance employee well-being. We will cover topics including stakeholder engagement, revenue goals, and employee expectations.

Whether you are curious, skeptical, or ready to lead the change, this session will equip you with the inspiration to reimagine the future of work in fundraising.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain why nonprofit organizations are exploring alternative work structures and identify potential benefits for mission impact, fundraising performance, and employee well-being.
• Co-create practical approaches for piloting a four-day workweek within their own organizations, considering cultural, operational, and financial implications.
• Evaluate the PSU Foundation’s one-year trial, focusing on strategies for optimizing systems, engaging stakeholders, meeting revenue goals, and aligning employee expectations..

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Personnel/Human Resources
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Element of Engagement: Case Study; Q&A 

3:30-4:30PM

Centralizing Fund Management for a Decentralized Campus: How Good Partnerships Deliver Value

Presenters: Chelsea Lamego, MBA; Nicole McDonald, CPA

Program Description: Strong foundation–campus relationships rely on shared governance, consistent processes, and clear, accessible information. Yet many organizations still face friction caused by undefined processes, manual fund oversight, mismatched expectations, and delayed access to critical financial data.

Co-presented by the Wisconsin Foundation & Alumni Association (WFAA) and FundMiner, this session explores a practical, campus- tested model for improving coordination between foundation staff, finance teams, and academic units. We’ll examine how WFAA shares access-controlled fund data across distinct user groups, enhances fund utilization monitoring and reporting capabilities, and automates approval workflows such as “Fund Manager” Disbursement Requests.

Participants will walk away with actionable steps any organization can adopt to improve fund utilization, enhance donor stewardship, and create a more seamless campus experience.

Learning Objectives:

• Provide transparent data access to reduce ambiguity and build trust with campus partners and strengthen the foundation–campus relationship.
• Establish shared processes and operating rhythms across the organization to standardize fund management practices.
• Understand how to leverage technology to automate workflows, reduce bottlenecks, and improve information clarity.
   

Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live
CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Computer Software & Applications
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Case Study; Q&A 

 9:30-10:30AM

Donor Success Model

Presenters: Chelsea Werdel, Brittany Shaff, bCRE, CFRE

Program Description: This session introduces the Donor Success Model, a strategic framework designed to transform donor stewardship into a systemized, personalized, and scalable service to our donors. Developed in response to the recent rise of major ($25k +) and principal ($1M+) donors at the Texas A&M Foundation, the model addresses the need for a more intentional and measurable approach to donor success. This model is a shift away from the traditional stewardship approach of an email/direct mail gift receipt, a video thank you, and an impact report; rather, the process includes mirroring a stewardship portfolio with measurable outcomes and KPIs similar to their gift officer counterparts. Participants will learn how we identified gaps in traditional stewardship practices and leveraged data, gift officer feedback, and internal collaboration to build a more effective system. The presentation will outline key insights gained during the assessment phase, including timing inconsistencies in current stewardship efforts, donor behavior trends, and internal capacity challenges.

Learning Objectives:

• Evaluate assessment findings and apply insights to improve stewardship strategies within their own organizations.
• Analyze the limitations of traditional stewardship practices and identify key drivers for change in donor engagement.
• Design a framework for implementing a tiered donor system tailored to their advancement goals. Instructional Delivery Method: Group Live

CPE Credit: Attendees can earn up to 1 CPE for this session.
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization 
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Program Knowledge Level: Basic
Element of Engagement: Case Study; Q&A