2025 AFP NWA Education Summit

2025 AFP NWA Education Summit

YOU are the Catalyst – Inspiring Change Through Fundraising
 Wednesday, May 21, 2025 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
 NWACC – Springdale Campus, next to Arvest Ballpark

REGISTER NOW

Join Us for a Day That Will Spark Your Next Big Move in Fundraising

We invite you to join us for an energizing, day-long conference designed for fundraisers, executive directors, nonprofit leaders, and board members who are shaping the future of philanthropy and community impact in Northwest Arkansas.

This year’s theme is “YOU are the Catalyst – Inspiring Change Through Fundraising”

As Northwest Arkansas continues to grow, the nonprofit sector stands at the forefront of ensuring that growth is equitable, sustainable, and community-centered. This year’s theme celebrates you—the fundraiser, the director, the board member—as the powerful catalyst for that transformation. Prepare to leave feeling affirmed in your work and fired up for what’s next.

Whether you're looking to build new skills, ignite your passion for impact, or connect with a powerful network of change-makers, this is the summit you won’t want to miss.

Schedule

Location: NWACC Springdale Campus
 A full day of inspiration, connection, and professional growth.

  • 8:00 AM – Registration & Networking

  • 8:30 AM – Opening Keynote Speaker

  • 10:00 AM – Morning Breakout Sessions

  • 11:00 AM – Lunch & Keynote Speaker

  • 1:00 PM – Early Afternoon Breakout Sessions

  • 2:15 PM – Late Afternoon Breakout Sessions

  • 3:30 PM – Closing Keynote Speaker

Stick around after the final keynote for final connections and prize giveaways.

Speakers

We have curated an exceptional lineup of speakers who are experts in fundraising, nonprofit management, and organizational governance. These thought leaders and practitioners are ready to share insights that will challenge, inspire, and equip you for the road ahead.

Morning Keynote Session:

Sandy Edwards, Senior Advisor - University Advancement, University of Arkansas

 

In this powerful keynote, Sandy Edwards draws on her career in philanthropy to demonstrate how each of us is a catalyst for positive change. Using local success stories and personal reflections, she explores how vision, access, and intentional relationships ignite lasting impact. Attendees will leave inspired to embrace their identity as changemakers and recommit to the work of building stronger, more vibrant organizations.

Lunch Keynote Session:

Fireside Chat with the Seilhan Family:

Jody Dilday, Philanthropic Advisor and Vice President for Northwest Operations,

 Arkansas Community Foundation

Join us for a candid and inspiring Fireside Chat with a Donor, where we’ll explore the personal stories, values, and motivations that shaped their philanthropic journey. From early influences and personal experiences that led them to philanthropy, this conversation offers insight into what drives their giving and how it has evolved over time. We’ll hear what brings them the most joy, the challenges they’ve faced, and how philanthropy has deepened their relationships and personal growth. The discussion will also highlight what donors value — and dislike — in fundraising approaches. Whether you're a fundraiser or nonprofit leader, this session offers valuable perspective on building authentic, lasting donor relationships.

Afternoon Keynote Session:

Blake Woolsey, Chief Communications and Development Officer, Heartland Forward

Fundraising as a Career for Catalysts: Driving Impact Through Relationships and Vision

Fundraising is more than a job—it's a career for catalysts: individuals who spark momentum and drive transformation in their communities and beyond.

In this dynamic session, we'll explore how fundraisers serve as key changemakers within mission-driven organizations. You'll discover how a career in fundraising aligns with purpose-driven work, leverages strategic thinking and emotional intelligence, and offers a front-row seat to impact. Whether you're new to the field or looking to reignite your passion, this presentation will inspire you to see fundraising not as a stepping stone—but as a calling.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the unique role fundraisers play as organizational catalysts.
  • Explore the skills and mindset that make fundraising a powerful career path.
  • Learn how to articulate the value and purpose of your work to others—and to yourself.

Walk away with an understanding that fundraising is as a bold, inspiring and high-impact profession.

Why You Should Attend

  • Learn proven fundraising strategies from experienced professionals

  • Gain fresh insights to lead your organization with vision and impact

  • Hear from thought leaders in nonprofit management and philanthropy

  • Build lasting relationships with over 100 regional nonprofit professionals

  • Leave with tools and ideas you can implement immediately

Interested in Sponsoring?

Sponsorship is a meaningful way to support the work of philanthropy and align your brand with nonprofit excellence. Opportunities include:

Register Today

Be part of the region’s premier nonprofit leadership event. Join a powerful network of peers and leaders working to drive sustainable change in Northwest Arkansas.

Early Bird Registration: April 9-May 20th. 

Member $110

Nonmember $140

Day of Registration: May 21

$200 (if available)