2025 ANA Nonprofit Conference | ANA National Industry Conferences | ANA

Conference Agenda

All sessions listed below are in Eastern Time (ET).
Please note the conference agenda, including speakers, is subject to change.

TIME EVENT DETAILS LOCATION
Tuesday, February 25, 2025
10:00am
- 12:30pm
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING & NETWORKING LUNCHEON

All ANA members are invited to join this dynamic start to the conference, featuring discussions on industry challenges, emerging trends, and best practices in nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Exchange insights, tackle key issues, and build connections during the Networking Luncheon. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, share, and collaborate!

Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
1:45pm
- 2:00pm

OPENING & HOUSEKEEPING REMARKS

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:00pm
- 2:45pm

WORKSHOP SESSION: LIGHTNING SESSION: JOURNEY MAPPING FOR DEEPER DONOR RELATIONSHIPS IN THE 21ST CENTURY

This fast-paced workshop dives into journey mapping as a powerful strategy to cultivate donor relationships and build a supporter-centric organization. Designed for forward-thinking leaders in social impact, the session offers hands-on insights into using journey mapping to create a seamless, tech-enabled approach to engaging donors, advocates, and supporters. Participants will explore the essentials of 21st-century journey mapping, incorporating behavioral science, DEI, and AI. Through collaborative activities, you’ll learn practical mapping techniques for engaging multi-generational donors (Gen Y, Gen X, Boomers, Matures) and leave with actionable steps for fostering a supporter-centric culture.

Learning Objectives:

  • Leverage Innovation and Collaboration: Discover ways to use journey mapping to inspire cross-functional partnerships, leadership, and donor engagement.
  • Enhance Leadership and Team Dynamics: Gain insights into building collaborative, donor-centered teams and engaging volunteers in the mapping process.
  • Boost Donor Acquisition and Retention: Apply mapping techniques to attract new donors and deepen relationships with existing ones.
  • Advance DEI in Donor Engagement: Use journey mapping as a tool for inclusive, diverse donor relationships.
  • Apply CX Principles for Stronger Collaboration: Learn how customer experience and journey mapping can enhance cross-functional teamwork and build a truly supporter-centric organization.

Michael Johnston
Founder and President Hewitt and Johnston Consultants
ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:30pm
- 4:30pm
NONPROFIT EXECUTIVE ROUNDTABLE - INVITE ONLY

Nonprofit Organizations Only - Limited Capacity

This invitation-only event offers nonprofit leaders an exclusive space to discuss emerging trends, address pressing challenges, and share insights from across the nonprofit sector. In a nonprofit-only, facilitated discussion, executives will connect, exchange ideas, and learn from each other in an intimate, collaborative setting. Come prepared to engage with your peers, share experiences, and discover meaningful solutions together.

Interested in attending? Complete this form for consideration. Approval is required.

Laura Thornton
VP, Global Philanthropy and Marketing Children International
Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:45pm
- 3:30pm

WORKSHOP SESSION: I WISH I'D THOUGHT OF THAT!

Join some of our industry’s top creative minds as they dissect and analyze cutting-edge creative ideas. Have you recently opened your mailbox, email or social media and found an appeal or ad from another fundraiser that really caught your eye? Then you open it, admire the approach and say to yourself, “I wish I’d thought of that!” Well, here’s your chance to explore some of the best work of our time as creative experts and leaders share some of the ideas they admire most. They’ll examine a wide variety of offers, formats and creative approaches and explain why each execution is compelling and how it got their attention. These examples will come not just from nonprofits, but also from commercial advertisers who are often on the leading edge of creative innovation. The panel will discuss a wide range of campaigns in a variety of media including direct mail, digital advertising, print, social media and digital video.

Together with you, the audience, the panel will ponder the creative strategies behind the concepts, and best of all, inspire you to come up with some breakthrough ideas of your own!

Steve Maggio
Founder, President & CEO DaVinci Direct
Jenny Allen
Principal MissionWired
Amanda Lichtenstein
Senior Manager, Fundraising Content Operation Smile
John Thompson
Chief Marketing Officer TrueSense
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
3:30pm
- 3:45pm
COFFEE BREAK

Recharge with light refreshments and casual networking during the first afternoon break. Connect with fellow attendees and discuss session insights in a relaxed atmosphere before diving back into the day's events.

MGM Grand Ballroom Prefunction (IN-PERSON ONLY)
3:45pm
- 4:05pm

THOUGHT LEADER SESSION

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
4:05pm
- 4:50pm

WORKSHOP SESSION: THE GEN AI SAVVY NONPROFIT

Discover how nonprofits, from grassroots organizations to large-scale operations, can harness the power of Generative AI to advance their missions and enhance impact. This session will unpack the two faces of AI—AI that happens to you, and AI you actively shape. We’ll dive into actionable strategies and showcase real-world examples of how nonprofits are successfully integrating AI to boost outreach, streamline daily operations, and drive meaningful changes. Leave with practical steps you can implement now, empowering your organization to leverage AI responsibly and effectively.

Kevin M. Ryan
Founder and CEO Motivity
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
5:00pm
- 6:00pm
WELCOME RECEPTION

Kick off the 2025 ANA Nonprofit Conference with an evening of networking and refreshments. Connect with nonprofit leaders and peers in a relaxed setting, sparking conversations and setting the tone for an inspiring conference. Whether new or returning, join us for a warm start to your conference journey!

MGM Grand Ballroom Prefunction (IN-PERSON ONLY)
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
7:45am
- 8:45am
NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Kick off the day with a networking breakfast! Connect with fellow attendees, share insights, and start your day with energizing conversations that set the tone for meaningful connections and collaborative learning throughout the conference.

 

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
8:45am
- 9:30am

OPENING REMARKS

Bob Liodice
CEO ANA
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
9:30am
- 10:05am

HEALTH EQUITY: WHAT WE’VE LEARNED AND WHAT WE’RE DOING TO PROVIDE HEALTH AND HOPE TO EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE

Health equity is what the world would look like if we all had the same opportunity to be healthy. Today, health equity is a concept. But tomorrow, we want it to be a reality for all.
 
That is our vision. And that’s why our 100-year-old organization has rallied the strength and will of our millions of volunteers and supporters to make health equity a reality for all. Our vision is to provide health and hope to everyone, everywhere. The concept that where we live, work, play, study and pray dramatically influences our health is not new.  But increasingly we are seeing major gaps in health outcomes between various groups of individuals.  Life expectancy in the same communities can vary by 20 years or more.  And even as we’ve seen improvements in cardiovascular and brain health those improvements have not been true across race/ethnicity and SES lines.  In fact, in many cases the gaps are widening.
 
This presentation highlights some of the compelling reasons this work is so important and how it influences our ability to achieve our health outcome goals.

Gerald Johnson
EVP, Health Equity and Chief Diversity Officer American Heart Association
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
10:05am
- 10:40am

PURPOSEFUL PARTNERSHIPS: DISCOVERING THE LIFECYCLE OF SUCCESSFUL CAUSE MARKETING COLLABORATIONS

In today's socially conscious marketplace, aligning your brand with a nonprofit can create powerful connections and drive meaningful impact. Mattel’s Nancy Molenda will guide attendees through the essential steps to choosing the right corporate or nonprofit partner for your brand that will lead renewed partnerships and long-term commitments. Learn more about how Mattel’s programs have brought to life cause marketing campaigns that continue to grow and evolve this brand and nonprofit partnership space including: the Barbie Dream Gap Project, Thank You Heroes, Brave Barbie, Hot Wheels Challenge Accepted, and more.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Finding the Right Partners: Learn how to identify organizations that resonate with your brand values and mission. Discover strategies for evaluating potential partners and ensuring alignment for authentic collaborations.
  • Measuring Success: Explore effective metrics and tools for assessing the impact of your partnership. From tracking donations to gauging brand sentiment, understand how to evaluate success and refine your approach over time.
  • The Lifecycle of a Cause Marketing Partnership: Navigate the stages of a cause marketing partnership, from initial ideation to long-term sustainability. Learn how to cultivate and nurture relationships with nonprofit partners to maximize impact and maintain momentum.

Join us for this insightful session that will produce authentic, impactful partnerships that not only drive business results but also contribute positively to society.

Nancy Molenda
Vice President, Global Corporate Events and Philanthropy Mattel, Inc.
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
10:40am
- 11:15am

THOUGHT LEADER SESSION

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
11:15am
- 11:30am
COFFEE BREAK

Take a refreshing morning break! Recharge with coffee and snacks, explore our exhibitor booths, and connect with industry partners. Discover new solutions and gather valuable resources to support your organization’s goals before heading into the breakout sessions.

MGM Grand Ballroom Prefunction (IN-PERSON ONLY)
11:30am
- 12:15pm
ANA BREAKOUTS I

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

DOING MORE WITH LESS TRACK: POCKET SIZED INNOVATION

It’s an age-old conundrum in the charitable sector – you want to innovate, but you have limited resources and time. We get it. This session is designed to empower fundraisers to make significant impact through quick innovations that have big outcomes. This session explores innovative strategies, practical ideas, and creative thinking that you can apply at your own organizations. UNHCR USA will share their own definition of Innovation, and examples of innovations they have incorporated into their program and the learnings they have experienced – including the Refugee-Led Innovation Fund. We will also share experiences of other charities we’ve worked with, and what that meant for their program objectives. And we’ll prove together that innovation knows no financial boundaries! UNHCR USA will showcase strategies that reshaped their program’s reach, from digital tools that elevated donor engagement to agile campaigns that made every dollar count. You’ll also hear real-world examples from other charities that unlocked growth and achieved remarkable program objectives through innovative pivots. Whether it’s maximizing minimal resources, leveraging new technology, or finding fresh ways to connect with supporters, you’ll leave with actionable insights and a renewed belief that innovation has no bounds.

Session Takeaways:

  • How to think differently about your programs to make space for innovation.
  • How to make your case internally and get buy-in from your colleagues as well as how to test and roll out innovations in an effective way.
  • See great examples that will inspire you to think differently and deliver new ideas that can truly change outcomes for your charity!

Maeve Strathy
VP, Client Relationships Blakely
Lacey Stone
Chief Development Officer UNHCR USA
Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)

INNOVATION AND INVESTMENTS TRACK: CHARTING A COURSE ACROSS CHANNELS

As the media mix continues to evolve, new channels, mediums, and revenue streams are constantly entering the scene. Consumers are interacting with more media channels, content, and platforms than ever before.
Nonprofit marketers and fundraisers are struggling to accurately predict, and measure, the path from awareness to engagement to donation and loyalty. When you factor additional mission-related metrics such as volunteerism, advocacy, program utilization, and event participation, and more, this challenge can feel unmanageable. There’s mounting pressure for marketers to not only understand, but to also prove the value of each element in the marketing mix.
Becoming a donor and giving regularly is only part of the supporter experience; and only part of the organization’s mission. Let’s change the conversation.

Session Takeaways:

  • Mission-specific measurement approaches for multi-channel media programs
  • Common challenges and solutions to changing the status quo
  • Leading the charge: how to create alignment within and across teams, regardless of your role within the organization.

Katy Jordan
Principal & Founder Katy Jordan Consulting
Geoff Handy
Head of Mass Market Fundraising, North America International Rescue Committee
Brenna Holmes
Independent Consultant & Coach Brenna Holmes Advisory Consulting
ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)
12:15pm
- 1:35pm
2025 ANA NONPROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARDS TROPHY PRESENTATION AND LUNCHEON

Join us as we celebrate the 2025 recipients of the ANA Nonprofit Excellence Awards. Stay tuned to learn their names.

  • Rising Leader Award: Recognizes an emerging leader who is helping shape the future of nonprofit marketing and fundraising.
  • Max Hart Achievement Award: Recognizes overall career achievement and exemplary professionalism.
  • Nonprofit Organization of the Year Award: Recognizes outstanding achievement in marketing and fundraising by a nonprofit organization.

Enjoy a delicious lunch, network with your peers, and celebrate the 2025 honorees. To learn more about the ANA Nonprofit Excellence Awards, visit the website. Nominations for 2026 will open in the spring.

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
1:35pm
- 1:55pm

THOUGHT LEADER SESSION

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:00pm
- 2:45pm
ANA BREAKOUTS II

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

LEADERSHIP TRACK: TBA

Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)

INNOVATION AND INVESTMENTS TRACK: CHRONIC NON-RESPONDERS 2.0, OPTIMIZING WITH PREDICTIVE AI MODELING

This session will showcase how PETA, in collaboration with Mal Warwick and Data Axle Nonprofit, utilized predictive AI and machine learning to enhance their donor acquisition program. By integrating donor behavioral data with traditional Chronic Non-Responder (CNR) strategies, PETA improved audience targeting, focusing on high-potential prospects while minimizing engagement with less likely donors. The panel will present a case study that illustrates how this advanced modeling identified ideal prospects and reduced costs. By analyzing promotion history, donor data, and demographic insights, the optimization model enhanced donor selection, communication timing, and package choice. 
 
Session Takeaways:
  • Technical Integration of Data Streams: Learn the best practices for merging multiple data sources to create a single, coherent optimization process that enables more informed, data-driven decision-making.
  • Advanced Segmentation and Targeting: Gain insights into data optimization techniques, including AI machine learning modeling, that enhance segmentation accuracy, enabling precise targeting for diverse donor personas.
  • Package, Name Selection and Tame Drops: Use the optimization modeling to target communications and content to engage donors more deeply, enhance emotional connection and increase the likelihood of donations.
  • Proven Optimization Strategies: Understand how PETA’s case study leveraged the optimization model to run A/B tests, optimize donor communications, and boost overall campaign efficiency and ROI. Learn how to incorporate future testing plans using a data-driven approach.
  • Application of AI Modeling: Learn how to leverage AI machine learning optimization modeling during the acquisition process to maximize not only the universe, but strategies to engage the universe with the goal of increasing the overall response rate.

Richard Geiger
Senior Vice President Data Axle Nonprofit
Lisa Riordan
VP, Data Processing Data Axle Nonprofit
Peter Schoewe
Principal & Senior Vice President Mal Warwick Donordigital
Jeff Zick
Senior Director of Response Fundraising PETA
ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)

DOING MORE WITH LESS TRACK: RAPID-FIRE SAVINGS: 20+ LOW-COST TACTICS THAT GET RESULTS

The last few years have been challenging for direct mail fundraising programs. Costs have increased, postage is going up all the time, and response can be challenging. If your direct response program is under pressure to get results on a smaller budget, we’re here to help.

In this rapid-fire session, we’ll review ways that you can save costs in your direct response program while generating impressive results. With case studies, testing results and creative samples, we’ll share low-cost, but high-impact, tactics to improve response. We’ll review printing and postal strategies to reduce your program costs. And we’ll highlight tested strategies to maximize every single dollar available to your program.

Session Takeaways:

  • Discover immediately applicable ways to reduce direct mail program cost
  • Learn strategies that can drive response without requiring major investments
  • Get fired up about your program’s potential—even with a limited budget

Eliza Slone
Vice President, Strategy MKDM
Peter Dean
Development Operations and Data Systems Manager Rails to Trails Conservancy
Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:45pm
- 2:50pm

TRANSITION

(IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:50pm
- 3:25pm

BEYOND THE METRICS: INSPIRING CHANGE THROUGH STORYTELLING

In today's fast-paced world, nonprofits face the challenge of connecting with people on a deep, personal, and emotional level. Storytelling is the key to unlocking the hearts and minds of potential supporters. This keynote will explore the art and science of inspiring audiences with narratives that drive action and meaningful change. From understanding your organization's unique story to developing effective storytelling techniques, this presentation will equip nonprofits with the insight they need to harness the power of storytelling to make a lasting impact. 

Dawn Rodney
Chief External Affairs Officer National Park Foundation
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
3:25pm
- 4:00pm

HOW A BRAND REFRESH CAN ATTRACT NEW AUDIENCES, DEEPEN CUSTOMER LOYALTY, AND INSPIRE INNOVATION

Discover how a strategic brand refresh can breathe new life into your organization, sparking growth and innovation. This keynote unpacks a powerful case study where reimagining a brand's identity attracted new audiences, strengthened engagement with existing customers, and unleashed creativity within internal teams. Learn how aligning your brand refresh with customer insights can create meaningful engagement across the entire customer journey—from online experiences to in-person interactions.

This session will empower you to:

  • Harness insights from new and loyal customers to shape your brand’s future.
  • Amplify the impact of your brand refresh at every customer touchpoint.
  • Inspire innovation and collaboration across your organization by turning your brand refresh into a catalyst for transformation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock actionable strategies that elevate your brand’s relevance and spark innovation for sustainable success.

Kimberly J. Cooper
Senior Vice President of Marketing The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
4:00pm
- 4:15pm
COFFEE BREAK

Pause and recharge with an afternoon coffee break! Enjoy refreshments, visit our exhibitor booths, and connect with fellow attendees. Discover fresh insights and resources to enhance your day before heading into the next set of sessions.

MGM Grand Ballroom Prefunction (IN-PERSON ONLY)
4:15pm
- 5:00pm
ANA BREAKOUTS III

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

LEADERSHIP TRACK: TBA

Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)

INNOVATION AND INVESTMENTS TRACK: DONOR ADVISED FUNDS

ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)

DOING MORE WITH LESS TRACK: DON’T BREAK THE BANK: FREE/LOW COSTS HIGHLY IMPACTFUL STRATEGIES

“We are increasing your revenue goal by 10% - and we aren’t increasing your expenses.” Unfortunately, this direction is becoming all too common in our industry. The pressure is felt on both organization teams and client partners to do more with less. Every single dollar spent in your fundraising budgets matters and education up to leadership can go a long way in creating a shared understanding.
Our panel of industry leaders will share their experience developing strategies to maximize their expense budgets to not only hit short term goals, but also setting up their programs for long-term sustainable success. We’ll cover topics such as donor pipeline diagnostics, the importance of investment optics, data hygiene, and our top 10 techniques everyone should be testing.
 
Session Takeaways:
  • Collaboration and Communication: Understand the importance of educating leadership and fostering a shared understanding of financial goals and outcomes among all stakeholders.
  • Investment and Data Management: Recognize the significance of investment optics and data hygiene in developing sustainable fundraising strategies.
  • Put Audiences First: Learn how to truly understand your audience segments to drive maximum ROI in fundraising efforts.
  • Donor Pipeline Insights: Explore techniques for diagnosing donor pipelines to enhance fundraising efforts and drive long-term success.
  • Practical Techniques: Discover our top 10 techniques to test in your fundraising approach to improve efficiency and effectiveness that are either free or low cost.

Katie Valvo
Vice President Epsilon
Beth Wrubleski
Senior Director, Direct Response Obama Foundation
Caroline Pronovost
Associate Director, Donor Retention ACLU
Kate Hollandsworth
Senior Vice President of Strategy AKwire
Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)
5:00pm
- 6:00pm
POWER NETWORKING RECEPTION

Wrap up the day with our Power Networking Reception! Unwind, connect with fellow attendees, and build lasting relationships in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to end the day and expand your network.

MGM Grand Ballroom Prefunction (IN-PERSON ONLY)
Thursday, February 27, 2025
7:15am
- 8:00am
NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Join us for the final networking breakfast before a full day of sessions. Relax, connect, and reflect with fellow attendees to add inspiring conversations and lasting connections to your conference experience!

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
8:00am
- 8:45am

OPENING REMARKS KEYNOTE SESSION: ON THE HILL AND IN THE STATES: NAVIGATING 2025 AND BEYOND

As 2025 approaches, nonprofits must adapt to a rapidly shifting policy landscape. Join us for a concise briefing on key legislative trends and policy shifts affecting the sector, offering leaders a roadmap for navigating new regulations and advocacy opportunities.

We’ll cover:

  • Policy Landscape in 2025: Federal and state policy priorities that could reshape nonprofit operations, from fundraising regulations to governance standards.
  • Data Privacy & Technology Compliance: New data privacy laws and tech standards impacting data management, security, and outreach.
  • Charitable Giving Incentives: Potential changes in tax policies that may influence donor behavior and funding stability.

Chris Oswald
Executive Vice President & Head of Government Relations ANA
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
8:45am
- 9:20am

STABILITY: A SUPERPOWER IN UNCERTAIN TIMES

There are record levels of political polarization; the media and social media ecosystem is more fractured than ever; and Americans, especially younger people, are expressing anxiety about the future. Nonprofit organizations, many of which are long-standing institutions, are uniquely positioned to meet this moment and reassure supporters as they find new ones. From embracing an organization's legacy and evoking nostalgia to reaffirming one's commitment to its mission, stability (and agility) is a superpower in navigating uncertain times. Learn how Consumer Reports' marketing is leaning into its 88 year old history, and evolving, to do just that.

Khalid El Khatib
Chief Marketing Officer Consumer Reports
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
9:20am
- 9:55am

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN

Get the scoop! Join this dynamic fireside chat as Tunde Wackman, Chief Development Officer of World Central Kitchen, shares impactful stories and lessons learned from leading one of the world's most renowned humanitarian nonprofits. Interviewed seasoned journalist Paul Clolery from The Nonprofit Times, this engaging discussion will uncover the strategies behind World Central Kitchen's global success, their innovative approaches to tackling food insecurity, and the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change.

Tunde Wackman
Chief Development Officer World Central Kitchen
Paul Clolery
Vice President and Editorial Director NPT Publishing Group
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
9:55am
- 10:15am

THOUGHT LEADER SESSION

TBA
MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
10:15am
- 10:30am
COFFEE BREAK

Enjoy the final coffee break of the conference! Recharge, visit exhibitors, connect with attendees, and get ready for next round of sessions ahead.

MGM Grand Ballroom Prefunction (IN-PERSON ONLY)
10:30am
- 11:15am
ANA BREAKOUTS IV

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

CAUSE MARKETING TRACK: TBA

Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)

RETENTION AND ACQUISITION TRACK: ATTRITION TO ACTION: SUSTAINER RETENTION TACTICS THAT WIN

When it comes to monthly donors, the importance of retention cannot be overstated. In this session, we’ll walk through how two organizations have jumped into action and developed successful retention strategies that serve as the backbone of their ongoing monthly giving retention efforts.
Session Takeaways:

  • The Importance of Proactive Trend Monitoring: All too often, we look at trends in the rearview mirror, but by turning this around and proactively monitoring trends and forecasting in real time, you can jump on trends quickly to make a big impact on your program. We’ll talk about how to do this and the right cadence for monitoring.
  • Sustainer Retention Strategies That Work: We’ll cover strategies that are proven to work in retaining sustainers across channels, offering new ideas for you to implement in your organization!
  • Building a Long-Term Retention Framework: Beyond short-term wins, it's essential to establish a long-term retention framework that includes effective touchpoints, communication cadence, and personalization. Attendees will leave with a practical blueprint for creating a sustainable and scalable retention strategy tailored to their donor base.

Courtney Lewis
Executive Vice President Fuse Fundraising
Rebecca Helberg
Sustainer Manager Mercy Corps
Monica Muten
Vice President, Direct Response Special Olympics
ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)

CHANGING LANDSCAPES TRACK: RESPECTING DONOR PRIVACY WITHOUT SINKING YOUR FUNDRAISING

We all already know the story: Data privacy is on the rise, with more than 30 state laws pending in the U.S. alone. Beyond just doing what our legal teams tell us to get into compliance, we as fundraisers also need to care about and consider the trickle-down impacts of privacy, from analytics tracking to ensuring our approach meets audience expectations -- without shutting down our ability to reach donors at all. We'll help you understand how to broker the conversation about who's on first when it comes to data privacy; what key metrics you need to assess in convening cross-organizational teams; and how your technology could and should evolve to fit a new landscape.

Session Takeaways:

  • Big Tech companies like Google are not incentivized to adjust their products to become compliant, because the less access they have to audience data, the more they feel the revenue squeeze. But as more audiences opt out of things like cookie tracking, these tech products are becoming obsolete anyway, leaving you with less and less reliable data. We’ll help you understand what metrics you’re missing, where you’re susceptible to risk in sticking with the status quo, and how you can diversify your analytics technology to embrace adaptation (before it’s demanded of you).
  • Respecting audience intent and honoring consent is part of what we endorse and fight for in our missions. It is possible to create a program that respects what your donors are telling you they want while also raising funds productively. We’ll tell you how.
  • In this session, we’ll discuss Center for Reproductive Rights’ work to foster a consent-based marketing approach while also building the data infrastructure to future-proof its fundraising impact – and how you can, too!

Tyler Kalogeros-Treschuk
Director, Individual Giving Center for Reproductive Rights
Elyse Wallnutt
Founder Agility Lab Consulting
Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)
11:15am
- 11:20am

TRANSITION

(IN-PERSON ONLY)
11:20am
- 12:05pm
ANA BREAKOUTS V

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

CAUSE MARKETING TRACK: TBA

Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)

RETENTION AND ACQUISITION TRACK: CTV UNLEASHED: PROVEN NONPROFIT STRATEGIES FOR MAX IMPACT

Connected TV (CTV) offers nonprofits a robust, scalable way to reach and engage donors. In this session, you’ll explore real-world case studies from nonprofits that successfully used CTV to drive awareness and action. Make-A-Wish Foundation will share their experience running innovative CTV campaigns that have delivered increased donations and expanded reach. We’ll cover best practices for integrating CTV into your strategy, using CTV’s targeting capabilities, and creating impactful content that resonates with donors. You’ll walk away with the tools to understand how CTV fits into your omnichannel approach, delivering personalized experiences donors expect. Learn how to optimize your CTV campaigns and track real-time performance for continuous improvement.

Session Takeaways:

  • Discover how nonprofits are using CTV to boost donor engagement and awareness.
  • Learn how to create compelling content tailored explicitly to CTV audiences.
  • Understand how to measure and track performance for real-time campaign adjustments.
  • Integrate CTV with your broader omnichannel marketing efforts.
  • Apply advanced targeting techniques to personalize your CTV outreach.

Becca Blader
Senior Manager of Integrated Fundraising Make-A-Wish Foundation
Linsey Park
Director of Media Planning Moore
ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)

CHANGING LANDSCAPES TRACK: SURVIVING AND THRIVING THE “SILVER TSUNAMI” – SECOND WAVE

The “Aging of America” demographic phenomenon, coupled with the life-changing pandemic, is creating tremendous legacy giving opportunities like we’ve never seen before. Learn how dynamic broad-based marketing can let you reach a broader audience that will help you not only survive this “wave,” but thrive in it! Join us as we share key marketing approaches and techniques that effectively move donors along in their legacy giving journey. We’ll review World Wildlife Fund’s program where we’re seeing up to TRIPLE THE RESULTS in our legacy giving marketing over the last four years!
 
Session Takeaways:
  • Understand the massive fundraising opportunity in legacy giving with the wave of Boomers and the changing mindset given the global pandemic.
  • Identify the five stages of the legacy donor journey and how this differs from traditional giving.
  • Learn key marketing approaches and techniques that effectively move donors along in their legacy giving journey using World Wildlife Fund as an example where we’re seeing triple the results in their legacy giving marketing over the last three years!

Renee Durnin, CFRE
Senior Client Strategist The Stelter Company
Laura Spellings
Manager, Gift Planning Marketing & Operations World Wildlife Fund
Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)
12:05pm
- 12:50pm
NETWORKING LUNCHEON

Join us for the final networking lunch of the conference! Connect with fellow attendees, share insights, and recharge before attending the last rounds of sessions.

MGM Grand Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)
12:50pm
- 1:35pm
ANA BREAKOUTS VI

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

DATA, ANALYTICS AND MEASUREMENT TRACK: THE 75TH CLUB: SECRETS FROM THE TOP FUNDRAISING PROGRAMS

Every year we publish M+R Benchmarks on digital fundraising program performance, looking at what's up, what's down, and what's next. But here's the thing: those numbers reflect the average performance. What about those who are performing above average? What are they doing differently? What are their secrets to success? In this session, we will look at organizations in Benchmarks' top 75th percentile and explore what sets these top performers apart from their peers, highlighting innovative approaches, effective tactics, and lessons learned in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Discover how they leverage technology, engage supporters, and maximize their fundraising potential to create impactful change. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting in the nonprofit sector, this session will provide actionable insights and inspiration to rock your digital fundraising efforts.

Session Takeaways:

  • How to assess where your own program compares to high-performing peers
  • An understanding of how the top performing fundraising programs differ from their peers
  • Examples of the critical digital strategies and tactics that lift performance (and that you can copy)         

Cameron Lefevre
Senior Vice President M+R
Libbie Hayward
Director, Direct Response Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Anita Yankova
Deputy Vice President, Digital Marketing & Fundraising International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)

RETENTION AND ACQUISITION TRACK: SESSION: BUILD DONOR RELATIONSHIPS BOOST RETENTION & UNLOCK GIFTS

ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)

CHANGING LANDSCAPES TRACK: GENERATIONAL STRATEGIES FOR GROWING SUPPORT

The American Red Cross has a rich history of over 140 years serving those in need and is consistently rated as one of the most recognized and trusted charities in the United States. Throughout its history, adapting to the evolving needs of the communities it serves and remaining relevant to the next generation of supporters has been a central theme. For many in the direct response space, this adaptation is typically translated as a need to attract younger donors.

But what does “younger” mean to your organization? It may mean relatively younger, or you may have a specific target in mind, such as growing more Generation X supporters. This session will illustrate a data-centered framework for quantifying generational support and crafting tailored engagement strategies, leveraging both message and channel preferences. Nonprofit marketers can also learn how to test into additional channels such as Connected TV (CTV) toward the goal of increasing awareness and engagement, and future support.

Session Takeaways:

  • Techniques to quantify each generation’s impact on your mission.
  • Using donor and market research to design the most compelling targeted offers.
  • Testing into new channels to build awareness and expand future support.
  • Short- and long-term measurement frameworks to quantify progress.

Lori Collins
Founder & Chief Scientist Giving Sciences
Melanie Arnold
Director of Direct Mail, Segmentation and Loyalty, Consumer Fundraising American Red Cross
Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)
1:35pm
- 1:40pm

TRANSITION

(IN-PERSON ONLY)
1:40pm
- 2:25pm
ANA BREAKOUTS VII

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

DATA, ANALYTICS AND MEASUREMENT TRACK: BUILDING YOUR MIDLEVEL FILE THROUGH DIRECT MAIL ACQUISITION

Midlevel donors are the bedrock of a healthy donor file and yet many organizations continue to neglect or mismanage them. Midlevel donors live in the intersection of direct marketing and major gift fundraising and effective midlevel fundraising requires a hybrid approach that many organizations have difficulty implementing. This session will explore how you can successfully use your data coop partners to help build your mid-level donor prospect pool through acquisition. We will offer strategic and tactical suggestions for success.

Session Takeaways:

  • Why DM can be used successfully to help build a midlevel pipeline
  • The importance of creative in building your midlevel pipeline
  • How to best partner with data coop partners to move your donors/prospects through the donor journey.

Jennifer Garbiso
Vice President, Client Success Wiland
Roger Hiyama
Executive Vice President of Solutions & Innovation Wiland
Cynthia Winer
Senior Advisor, Supporter Engagement Save the Children
Bellagio Ballroom (IN-PERSON ONLY)

RETENTION AND ACQUISITION TRACK: LEVERAGING PARTNERSHIPS AND EVENTS

Join us for an inspiring session that highlights how Philabundance is transforming its outreach efforts by harnessing the power of corporate and media partnerships to connect with sports and music fans in the Philadelphia area. This session will delve into the innovative strategies Philabundance employs to engage diverse audiences, raise awareness about food insecurity, and mobilize community support.

Participants will discover Case Studies: Real-world examples of successful collaborations with local sports teams and music events that have amplified Philabundance's message and mission. Creative Campaigns: An exploration of unique marketing campaigns that utilize social media, live events, and promotional partnerships to resonate with fans and drive action. Audience Engagement: Insights into how Philabundance tailors its outreach to meet the interests and passions of various demographics, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

Impact Measurement: Strategies for measuring the success of these partnerships and understanding their influence on community engagement and support.

Session Takeaways:

  • Identifying Opportunities for Partnerships
  • Identifying New Prospect Audiences to Target
  • Identifying Channels and Tactics to Reach New Donors

Liz Lowe
VP, Client Relationships Allegiance Group + Pursuant
Rick Roddam
Supervisor, Advertising Allegiance Group + Pursuant
Samantha Henry
Annual Fund Manager Philabundance
ARIA (IN-PERSON ONLY)

CHANGING LANDSCAPES TRACK: TBA

Beau Rivage (IN-PERSON ONLY)
2:25pm
- 2:30pm

ADJOURNMENT

(IN-PERSON ONLY)

Register Now

Please complete your registration at least 24 hours before the start of the event.

Thank you for registering for the 2025 ANA Nonprofit Conference! We'll see you in Oxon Hill!

To change, cancel, or reinstate your registration, please email registration@ana.net.

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