Spring Symposium: Major Gifts Best Practices
Half Day Educational Event
Calling all fundraisers! Join us for an engaging and informative morning exploring the complexities of major gift fundraising. This symposium will feature expert-led discussions on university major gifts, donor pipeline development, and moves management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, you’ll gain practical strategies and best practices to strengthen your fundraising efforts. Connect with peers, learn from industry leaders, and take your major gift program to the next level.
TIME:
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
LOCATION:
Scandinavia House
58 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016
PRICING:
AFP-NYC Young Professional Member: $165
AFP-NYC Member: $195
Non-Member: $250
*Full participation in "Spring Symposium: Major Gifts Best Practices" is applicable for 3.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.*
9:15 AM - 10:15 AM: Introduction to Major Gifts - How It's Done in a University Setting
Description:
Major gifts play a critical role in university fundraising, but what makes these programs successful? This session will provide an inside look at how higher education institutions set goals, cultivate donors, and secure transformational gifts. Learn key strategies for structuring major gift programs, engaging prospects, and driving long-term impact.
Speakers:
Britani Griffin
Major Gifts Officer
Cornell University
Julia Morton
Director of Development
Columbia College, Arts & Sciences
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Columbia University
Moderated by:
Elizabeth Abel
Senior Vice President
CCS Fundraising
15 minute break
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Laying the Foundation - Developing Your Donor Pipeline in Challenging Environments
Description:
How do you build a donor pipeline when you lack traditional networks like alumni or grateful patients? This session explores creative approaches to identifying, cultivating, and stewarding major gift prospects—even in resource-constrained environments. Gain actionable insights on establishing sustainable fundraising systems and expanding your donor base from the ground up.
Speakers:
Diane Collingham
Managing Director, Development Operations and Systems
Robin Hood
Joshua Bell
Director of Development
American Friends of the Louvre
Moderated by:
Renee Jamerson
Director of Donor Engagement
HousingPlus
15 minute break
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM: So the Well Doesn’t Run Dry - Best Practices for Moves Management
Description:
How do you move a prospect from initial contact to a major donor? Is moves management a structured process, or does it rely on intuition? This session demystifies moves management by blending strategies with creative engagement techniques. Learn how to guide donors through the giving cycle, maintain momentum, and secure transformational gifts.
Speakers:
Sarah Shannon
Major Gifts Officer
Weill Cornell Medicine
Shaun Newport
Director of Development
Museum of the City of New York
Moderated by:
Brandon Cole
Senior Leadership Giving Officer
Brown University
15 minute Networking session to close