Illuminate Conference

Welcome to the Missional Philanthropy Conference! Please check in at our Information Table in the South Atrium before attending other activities.

Come early for dinner to visit with your peers, both familiar faces and new acquaintances.

Details TBD ...

As a fundraiser, what’s your job? Your answer can change everything. In this practical session, Russell James shows how a biblical view of the fundraiser’s work leads to better donor conversations and larger gifts. This is not just abstract theology. It is a better way to do fundraising. We will cover how to explain your role, how to guide donors toward more meaningful gifts, and how to use questions, stories, and key phrases to encourage transformational giving. Come ready to rethink your role. Leave ready to help make larger gifts happen.

Presenter: Russell James, JD, PhD, CFP, is a chaired professor in the Department of Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the on-campus and online graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving). Prior to his career as an academic researcher, James worked as the director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri. He later served as the school's president, during which the college successfully completed two major capital campaigns, built several new debt-free buildings, and more than tripled enrollment.

Hot beverages, fruit, and small pastries (including vegan and gluten-free options) provided.

This session addresses the key elements of working with individual gift prospects, from getting the initial appointment, the primary objective for that first meeting, developing the strategy, soliciting, and closing the gift. Come prepared to garner highly practical information you can utilize immediately. The first half of the session focuses on effective preparations for personal solicitation and explores strategies for getting the appointment—especially that critical first appointment—making the most of that initial visit, and key steps in cultivation. In the second half of the session, Criscillis will discuss soliciting the gift, with tips for presenting your request clearly and cogently, differentiating between the case and leveraging points. Recognizing that the answer to gift requests is often something other than “yes,” he will also discuss ways to deal with potential concerns and provide strategies for closing the gift.

Presenter: Arthur Criscillis has worked with Alexander Haas for 23 years and serves as the managing partner for the firm’s higher education practice. Before joining Alexander Haas, he led the advancement programs for Rhodes College and Centre College, as well as the Purdue University College of Science. Criscillis moved into consulting for the opportunity to assist a variety of colleges and universities, and his work for clients runs the full range: assessments, feasibility studies, consulting, and training for staff, academic leaders, and volunteers. He has been part of successful campaigns ranging from $20 million to more than $1 billion.

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Explore how organizations can transform boards from passive overseers into active mission partners who strengthen organizational impact through advocacy, philanthropy, stewardship, and influence. Adaptable for organizations of all sizes, this practical session examines the core roles of effective boards, the power of relational leverage, and actionable strategies to elevate impact with credibility. Participants will leave with tools to create and cultivate strategic boards that advance mission through relational influence and shared purpose.

Presenter: Gayle Pottle, MS, CFRE, leads philanthropic strategy for AdventHealth’s Rocky Mountain Region, supporting eight foundations encompassing hospitals, international missions, and hospice. She brings a distinctive blend of Fortune 100 technology experience and nonprofit leadership expertise to her work, with a passion for building mission-centered, high-performing cultures of philanthropy. A Milton Murray Fund Executive Leadership Fellow, she is committed to developing nonprofit leaders and strengthening the capacity of organizations that serve their communities both locally and around the world.

Session specifics forthcoming ...

The most transformative gifts rarely begin with an ask — they begin with a conversation. In this interactive session, philanthropic advisor Marisa Ogles equips fundraisers with the skills, tools, and confidence to guide donors through meaningful discovery conversations that uncover values, clarify impact goals, and articulate a lasting legacy of generosity. Participants will leave with generation-specific engagement strategies, a toolkit of questions and resources for ongoing donor cultivation, and practical techniques for synthesizing donor insights into stewardship strategies that deepen relationships and strengthen long-term organizational impact. Whether you are new to major gift conversations or looking to elevate your practice, this session will help you meet donors where they are and walk alongside them toward where they want to go.

Presenter: Marisa Ogles, MPA, CFRE, is a philanthropic advisor and nonprofit strategist with more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, families, and organizations transform their generosity into lasting community impact. As principal of Compass Consulting, LLC, she partners with donors and nonprofits to align values with meaningful giving strategies — guiding clients through the personal, relational, and legacy dimensions of philanthropy that numbers alone cannot capture. Ogles’ career spans roles as senior director of Donor Services at the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, executive director, and development director.

The most meaningful donor conversations often begin not with a pitch, but with a question. In this session, we’ll explore how a Socratic approach (modeled by Jesus Himself) can foster deeper relationships, reveal donor motivations, and lead to joyful generosity. Learn how asking well-placed questions can help supporters connect their faith, values, and resources. Ideal for fundraisers who want to move from transactional asks to personally transformational dialogue.

Presenter: Russell James, JD, PhD, CFP, is a chaired professor in the Department of Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the on-campus and online graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving). Prior to his career as an academic researcher, James worked as the director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri. He later served as the school's president, during which the college successfully completed two major capital campaigns, built several new debt-free buildings, and more than tripled enrollment.

Explore how organizations can transform boards from passive overseers into active mission partners who strengthen organizational impact through advocacy, philanthropy, stewardship, and influence. Adaptable for organizations of all sizes, this practical session examines the core roles of effective boards, the power of relational leverage, and actionable strategies to elevate impact with credibility. Participants will leave with tools to create and cultivate strategic boards that advance mission through relational influence and shared purpose.

Presenter: Gayle Pottle, MS, CFRE, leads philanthropic strategy for AdventHealth’s Rocky Mountain Region, supporting eight foundations encompassing hospitals, international missions, and hospice. She brings a distinctive blend of Fortune 100 technology experience and nonprofit leadership expertise to her work, with a passion for building mission-centered, high-performing cultures of philanthropy. A Milton Murray Fund Executive Leadership Fellow, she is committed to developing nonprofit leaders and strengthening the capacity of organizations that serve their communities both locally and around the world.

Session specifics forthcoming ...

The most transformative gifts rarely begin with an ask — they begin with a conversation. In this interactive session, philanthropic advisor Marisa Ogles equips fundraisers with the skills, tools, and confidence to guide donors through meaningful discovery conversations that uncover values, clarify impact goals, and articulate a lasting legacy of generosity. Participants will leave with generation-specific engagement strategies, a toolkit of questions and resources for ongoing donor cultivation, and practical techniques for synthesizing donor insights into stewardship strategies that deepen relationships and strengthen long-term organizational impact. Whether you are new to major gift conversations or looking to elevate your practice, this session will help you meet donors where they are and walk alongside them toward where they want to go.

Presenter: Marisa Ogles, MPA, CFRE, is a philanthropic advisor and nonprofit strategist with more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, families, and organizations transform their generosity into lasting community impact. As principal of Compass Consulting, LLC, she partners with donors and nonprofits to align values with meaningful giving strategies — guiding clients through the personal, relational, and legacy dimensions of philanthropy that numbers alone cannot capture. Ogles’ career spans roles as senior director of Donor Services at the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, executive director, and development director.

Session specifics forthcoming ...

This presentation focuses on the latest research and the newest findings. So, what’s the answer? What really works in BIG fundraising? The latest, greatest answer is ... about 2000 years old. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul instructs Timothy on the ministry of major gifts fundraising. A deep-dive word study shows how his approaches match the latest experimental research and real-world best practices. Want to be a more effective, more confident, and more inspired major gifts fundraiser for your ministry? Come to this presentation and learn the practical, step-by-step process for real-world success taken straight from scripture!

Presenter: Russell James, JD, PhD, CFP, is a chaired professor in the Department of Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the on-campus and online graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving). Prior to his career as an academic researcher, James worked as the director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri. He later served as the school's president, during which the college successfully completed two major capital campaigns, built several new debt-free buildings, and more than tripled enrollment.

Hot beverages, fruit, and small pastries (including vegan and gluten-free options) provided.

Session specifics forthcoming ...

This session introduces essential elements for a comprehensive fundraising strategy and the value of building genuine relationships to maximize philanthropic impact. The session also shines a spotlight on the vital role of your Annual Fund, demonstrating how it serves as the heartbeat of an organization’s giving and stakeholder engagement. This seminar is ideal for newcomers to philanthropy, board members, and volunteers. You will receive practical insights and tips to build a strong foundation for generating ongoing, sustainable philanthropic revenue for your nonprofit. 

Presenter: LuAnn Davis, CFRE, is vice president for Advancement at Union Adventist University, a position she accepted in 1992 at her undergraduate alma mater where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. Davis went on to receive an MBA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1996.

Ever receive a mysterious check from your Community Foundation and not know who to thank? Attend this session to learn what information community foundations can and cannot share on their donors; what resources are available, including legacy planning; tips for tapping in a community network, and more.

Presenters: Maria Kain Matthews, director of Donor Relations for The Generosity Trust, has worked in the nonprofit field for 35+ years, including various development and fundraising roles with Girls Preparatory School, her alma mater. Stephany Skaggs Pedigo joined The Generosity Trust in 2025 as director of Family and Business Philanthropy. She has practiced law in Chattanooga for the past 25+ years

Session specifics forthcoming ...

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Session specifics forthcoming ...

This session introduces essential elements for a comprehensive fundraising strategy and the value of building genuine relationships to maximize philanthropic impact. The session also shines a spotlight on the vital role of your Annual Fund, demonstrating how it serves as the heartbeat of an organization’s giving and stakeholder engagement. This seminar is ideal for newcomers to philanthropy, board members, and volunteers. You will receive practical insights and tips to build a strong foundation for generating ongoing, sustainable philanthropic revenue for your nonprofit. 

Presenter: LuAnn Davis, CFRE, is vice president for Advancement at Union Adventist University, a position she accepted in 1992 at her undergraduate alma mater where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. Davis went on to receive an MBA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1996.

Ever receive a mysterious check from your Community Foundation and not know who to thank? Attend this session to learn what information community foundations can and cannot share on their donors; what resources are available, including legacy planning; tips for tapping in a community network, and more.

Presenters: Maria Kain Matthews, director of Donor Relations for The Generosity Trust, has worked in the nonprofit field for 35+ years, including various development and fundraising roles with Girls Preparatory School, her alma mater. Stephany Skaggs Pedigo joined The Generosity Trust in 2025 as director of Family and Business Philanthropy. She has practiced law in Chattanooga for the past 25+ years

Session specifics forthcoming ...

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Specifics TBD ...

Session specifics forthcoming ...

Many organizations that rely on the assistance and support of others (volunteers or donors) contemplate the idea of launching campaigns that go beyond their typical support. No two organizations are exactly the same. No two campaigns have the same goals or objectives, or the same success levels at the end. However, there are recommended steps for preparation, launching, monitoring, and celebrating successful campaigns that can be adapted to any organization or cause. No matter how large or small, whether the campaign will fund one project or multiple initiatives (or if it just seems impossible to get started), this session will provide some guidelines, hints, and conversation informing participants who are interested in launching a campaign.

Presenter: Ava Willis-Barksdale, MA, serves as the vice president of Advancement at Oakwood University. She returned to her alma mater to serve after amassing more than 30 years of experience as a medical professional, faculty member and educational program leader, and advancement leader in educational and healthcare settings.

This presentation explores the foundational principles, strategies, and systems necessary to create a thriving and sustainable development program. Designed for schools, nonprofits, and ministry organizations seeking to strengthen their fundraising efforts, the presentation will guide participants through the essential building blocks of successful advancement work; from establishing a compelling mission and case for support to cultivating meaningful donor relationships and building a culture of philanthropy. Key topics will include developing a strategic fundraising plan, identifying and engaging prospective donors, organizing donor data and communication systems, creating annual giving and major gift strategies, and fostering donor trust through gratitude and stewardship. Practical insights, helpful examples, and lessons learned from experience will help participants understand how even small organizations can build strong fundraising momentum that grows over time and advances mission impact for generations to come.

Presenters: Greg Gerard, EdD, has been a director of Development and vice president of Advancement, as well as a school principal. He enjoys being part of teams that bring change and improvement to a school. A teacher by training, Nancy Gerard, EdD, entered the world of fundraising in 2002 after accepting a role with Georgia-Cumberland Academy. She enjoys helping donors connect their values with the mission of Adventist education.

Giving days and crowdfunding campaigns can do more than raise money. They can engage new donors, expand participation, and build lasting connections to your mission. In this session, participants will explore the benefits of incorporating crowdfunding into their fundraising strategy, including attracting first-time donors, empowering advocates, and strengthening donor engagement. Whether you're launching your first campaign or looking to grow an existing program, you'll leave with practical steps to get started, strategies to increase impact, and ideas for turning collective generosity into long-term philanthropic support.

Presenter: Sandra Araújo-Delgado is associate director of Annual Giving at Southern Adventist University, leading multi-channel fundraising that connects alumni, friends, and the campus community in support of students and the university’s mission. She brings more than 15 years of nonprofit experience across public relations, development, alumni relations, and fundraising.

Whether you're creating your first fundraising plan or refining an existing one, this interactive session will guide you through the essential components of a successful fundraising strategy. Using a "building" framework, participants will explore organizational readiness, goal setting, donor engagement, revenue diversification, and implementation planning. Through self-assessments and practical examples, attendees will leave with tools and ideas to build a more sustainable and resilient fundraising program.

Presenter: Scot Coppock, MA, is ADRA’s senior director for Development, leading initiatives to inspire and grow support from private donors for ADRA’s global humanitarian work. He previously served as associate director of Planned Giving & Trust Services for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

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Many organizations that rely on the assistance and support of others (volunteers or donors) contemplate the idea of launching campaigns that go beyond their typical support. No two organizations are exactly the same. No two campaigns have the same goals or objectives, or the same success levels at the end. However, there are recommended steps for preparation, launching, monitoring, and celebrating successful campaigns that can be adapted to any organization or cause. No matter how large or small, whether the campaign will fund one project or multiple initiatives (or if it just seems impossible to get started), this session will provide some guidelines, hints, and conversation informing participants who are interested in launching a campaign.

Presenter: Ava Willis-Barksdale, MA, serves as the vice president of Advancement at Oakwood University. She returned to her alma mater to serve after amassing more than 30 years of experience as a medical professional, faculty member and educational program leader, and advancement leader in educational and healthcare settings.

This presentation explores the foundational principles, strategies, and systems necessary to create a thriving and sustainable development program. Designed for schools, nonprofits, and ministry organizations seeking to strengthen their fundraising efforts, the presentation will guide participants through the essential building blocks of successful advancement work; from establishing a compelling mission and case for support to cultivating meaningful donor relationships and building a culture of philanthropy. Key topics will include developing a strategic fundraising plan, identifying and engaging prospective donors, organizing donor data and communication systems, creating annual giving and major gift strategies, and fostering donor trust through gratitude and stewardship. Practical insights, helpful examples, and lessons learned from experience will help participants understand how even small organizations can build strong fundraising momentum that grows over time and advances mission impact for generations to come.

Presenters: Greg Gerard, EdD, has been a director of Development and vice president of Advancement, as well as a school principal. He enjoys being part of teams that bring change and improvement to a school. A teacher by training, Nancy Gerard, EdD, entered the world of fundraising in 2002 after accepting a role with Georgia-Cumberland Academy. She enjoys helping donors connect their values with the mission of Adventist education.

Giving days and crowdfunding campaigns can do more than raise money. They can engage new donors, expand participation, and build lasting connections to your mission. In this session, participants will explore the benefits of incorporating crowdfunding into their fundraising strategy, including attracting first-time donors, empowering advocates, and strengthening donor engagement. Whether you're launching your first campaign or looking to grow an existing program, you'll leave with practical steps to get started, strategies to increase impact, and ideas for turning collective generosity into long-term philanthropic support.

Presenter: Sandra Araújo-Delgado is associate director of Annual Giving at Southern Adventist University, leading multi-channel fundraising that connects alumni, friends, and the campus community in support of students and the university’s mission. She brings more than 15 years of nonprofit experience across public relations, development, alumni relations, and fundraising.

Whether you're creating your first fundraising plan or refining an existing one, this interactive session will guide you through the essential components of a successful fundraising strategy. Using a "building" framework, participants will explore organizational readiness, goal setting, donor engagement, revenue diversification, and implementation planning. Through self-assessments and practical examples, attendees will leave with tools and ideas to build a more sustainable and resilient fundraising program.

Presenter: Scot Coppock, MA, is ADRA’s senior director for Development, leading initiatives to inspire and grow support from private donors for ADRA’s global humanitarian work. He previously served as associate director of Planned Giving & Trust Services for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

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