| Back to Camp Finance 2025 Schedule | Full Faculty List |
This page will be updated regularly with clickable bios and session descriptions. Note, this schedule is subject to change, please reference this page for up-to-date information.
Click on speakers' names below to learn more about them.
AI and Fundraising: How To Use Tech To Build Community
AI is reshaping how nonprofits engage donors, craft messages, and build sustainable giving programs. Yet fundraisers approach these new tools in very different ways. This session introduces adoption archetypes—ranging from skeptics to early explorers—and looks at the opportunities and risks each approach brings. You’ll walk away with a grounded understanding of where AI can truly amplify fundraising efforts, where to tread carefully, and how to align emerging tools with your organization’s mission and values.
Tim Sarrantonio
Director of Community Engagement, Neon One
From Stats to Stories: How Data Powers Nonprofit Impact
Nonprofit organizations have a unique opportunity to use data to tell powerful stories that engage donors, motivate volunteers, and advance their mission. Join the Siena Research Institute from Siena University as we explore how to transform data into meaningful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. This presentation will guide participants through three essential concepts: turning data into compelling stories, visualizing impact effectively, and tailoring messages to build trust and inspire support. By mastering these skills, nonprofits can clearly showcase their successes and deepen connections, ultimately strengthening their community and amplifying their social impact.
Andrea Cianfarani
Associate Director of Operations, Siena Research Institute
Leslie Foster, M.S. Ed.
Business Development Manager, Siena Research Institute
Funders’ Panel
Federal funding cuts and administration actions have sent shock waves through the sector. What are funders experiencing, and what are they doing to adjust to this unprecedented time? Hear from foundation CEOs from different regions of NYS as they share their insights on how the federal actions have impacted their organizations and any changes they have made to help nonprofits and the communities they serve. Also hear tips on the best way to approach funders now for new or continuing funding.
Panelists:
George Ferrari
Chief Executive Officer, Community Foundation of Tompkins County
Andrea Reynolds
President and CEO, The Dyson Foundation
Dan KieferBach
Executive Director, Cloudsplitter Foundation
Moderator:
Megan Allen
Chief Executive Officer, New York Council of Nonprofits (NYCON); CEO, BoardStrong
Building Trust in Challenging Times
Nonprofits are leading through a moment of unprecedented pressure—and opportunity. Funding shortfalls, leadership transitions, and shifting donor priorities are real, but they don’t have to define your story. The question is: how do you inspire confidence when the ground is shifting beneath you?
In this session, Maria Griffin will share how to transform urgency into an invitation. You’ll walk away with practical strategies for building trust, connecting with donors, and framing your work so people lean in—even in times of crisis.
You’ll learn:
- How to frame challenges in ways that build trust and credibility
- What makes donors feel confident and compelled to act
- How to craft a narrative that inspires support—without sounding desperate
Maria Griffin
Founder & Principal, Griffin Associated
The Power of Story: Turning Mission into Meaningful Narrative
Nonprofits are at the heart of their communities, yet too often the powerful work they do goes unseen. Research from the National Council of Nonprofits shows that one of the most effective ways to raise awareness and support is to tell your nonprofit's story in a way that highlights real, local impact.
In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore practical storytelling techniques, how to weave in data that reinforces your message, and ways to showcase your impact so it resonates with funders, partners, and the broader community. You’ll leave with tools and strategies to share your nonprofit’s story in a way that is both compelling and authentic—so your community understands not just what you do, but why it matters.
