Planning meaningful events requires vision, careful planning, strong partnerships, and the ability to navigate the unexpected. In this interactive pre-conference workshop, participants will explore the essential components of thoughtful, engaging, and well-executed advancement events, from early concept development through post-event debrief and analysis.

We invite you to lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and join fellow “event mountaineers” for an Event Planners Summit: a collaborative, hands-on learning experience designed to move beyond theory and into practice. Throughout the workshop, participants will work alongside expert faculty and peers to build a comprehensive event strategy while collecting a rich toolkit of adaptable resources, templates, and planning frameworks.

Together, we’ll trek through the full event production journey, including:
-defining purpose, audience, and measures of success
-building strong partnerships and planning structures
-shaping compelling programs and guest experiences
-managing logistics, communications, staffing, and production
-navigating real-world “trail hazards” and event-day surprises
-conducting meaningful debriefs and post-event analysis

Through guided activities, table discussions, scenario-based problem solving, and peer collaboration, participants will apply concepts in real time and leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and a clearer roadmap for creating impactful institutional experiences.
Whether you’re new to advancement events or looking to strengthen your strategic and operational approach, this workshop will help you build confidence, sharpen your planning instincts, and prepare for the climb ahead.