This workshop will address the needs of new and existing managers to grow their skillsets and support their teams. Join us in tackling topics including effective management, performance management, and managing up, down, and across.

Management Preconference Workshop

This workshop will address the needs of new and existing managers to grow their skillsets and
support their teams. Join us in tackling topics including effective management, performance
management, and managing up, down, and across.

Time: 8:00 AM – 11:45 AM ET

8:00 – 8:30 AM

Registration and Breakfast

8:30 – 9:30 AM

Characteristics of Highly Effective Managers

Thriving teams and institutions require effective managers to lead them. Join us as we explore
key traits that define these managers — from adaptability to creativity and resilience. Through
case studies and group discussion, participants will develop a toolkit to elevate their management
practices and drive success within their department.

9:30 – 10:00 AM

Stretch Break

10:00 – 11:00 AM

Getting to Know Your People and Performance Management

Successful performance management starts with understanding your team. In this interactive
session, learn practical strategies to build trust, assess team dynamics, and set clear expectations.
We’ll also discuss different approaches to align individual goals with organizational outcomes.

Speaker: Shomari White, George Washington University

11:00 – 11:45 AM

Managing Up, Down and Across and Closing Remarks

Institutions thrive when advancement professionals can effectively navigate relationships at every
level. From securing leadership support to motivating staff and volunteers to building authentic
cross-campus partnerships, the ability to “manage up, down, and across” is critical for sustainable
success. This session will share best practices for setting expectations, inspiring constituents at
every level, and collaborating across departments to expand engagement opportunities. Participants
will leave with actionable strategies to align stakeholders, strengthen programming, and drive
measurable outcomes.