National Philanthropy Day 2024 Keynote Speaker:
Mike Buckley, CFRE: Look, Talk, Listen: Building Authentic Donor Relationships in an Inauthentic World
Non-profit leaders work tirelessly to communicate their organization’s mission and vision effectively, building community trust. However, creating deeper, more personalized connections with donors is essential for true engagement. This year’s keynote address, Look, Talk, Listen: Building Authentic Donor Relationships in an Inauthentic World, will delve into effective communication inspired by Malcolm Gladwell, Kate Murphy, and Christian Madsbjerg. The session will explore listening skills, debunk communication myths, and introduce strategic questions to strengthen relationships. Attendees will learn to read emotions, handle rejection, and master storytelling techniques, ensuring alignment and effectiveness across their organization. Join us to transform your donor relationships and enhance your communication approach to donors and prospects.
Michael J. Buckley, CFRE, is a seasoned fundraiser, non-profit consultant, coach, and speaker dedicated to enhancing the performance of small and medium-sized nonprofit organizations. As the Founder and Managing Partner of The Killoe Group, Mike has a proven track record of driving increased funding, visibility, and organizational capacity across diverse focus areas. His expertise encompasses annual campaign audits and management, capital campaign leadership, feasibility studies, interim and ad-hoc program leadership, board governance, strategic planning, and capacity building.
Mike is a highly effective and sought-after international speaker, having presented at numerous prestigious professional development events, including the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ International Conference (ICON), the National Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, the Northeast Annual Giving Conference, and the Mid-South Philanthropy Conference. Additionally, he is a Founding Faculty member at the Institute of Nonprofit Leadership and Community Development at the State University of New York at Albany.
An active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Mike has held leadership positions within the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and the Fundraising Effectiveness Project. He currently serves as the Chair of the Board of Trustees for Saratoga Independent School.
A proud former student phon-a-thon caller, Mike and his wife, Alison, enjoy traveling to warm climates, drinking good red wine, and following the New York Mets.
Full participation in National Philanthropy Day is applicable for 2.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.