Conference Speaker Panels 2026
Behind the Grant: A Conversation with Funders
Behind the Grant: A Conversation with Funders offers a rare, candid look at how funding decisions are really made. Featuring federal, foundation, and national funders, this Beyond School Hours 2026 panel goes beyond generic grant advice to explore the motivations, strategies, and signals that influence who gets funded—and why.Participants will gain practical insights into mission fit, organizational readiness, leadership and systems, effective use of data and storytelling, and how trust-based relationships shape funding outcomes—sometimes even before an application opens. Whether you’re new to fundraising or preparing for your next major opportunity, this session will help you position your organization as a strong, compelling partner to mission-driven funders.
Monday, March 2, 2026 | Workshop 1, 9:45–11:00 AM
Featuring Gigi Antoni, Vice President, Youth Development, The Wallace Foundation, Dr. Anna Hinton, Director, Charter Schools Program Division, U.S. Department of Education, Kirsten Russell, Vice President, Community Impact for the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Deborah Marshall, CEO, American Fundraising Foundation (AmFund) and President, American Fundraising Educational Foundation. Facilitated by Diane Melley, CEO, Melley and Associates and Former VP Global Initiatives, IBM.
Anchors of Learning: Places and Spaces
Anchors of Learning: Places and Spaces That Inspire Learning highlights how learning continues long after the school day ends. From libraries and museums to zoos and science centers, community-based spaces play a critical role in sparking curiosity, fostering creativity, and supporting children’s growth beyond the classroom. This dynamic Beyond School Hours 2026 session brings together leaders from some of the nation’s most trusted informal learning institutions to explore how these environments support unconstrained skill development and complement formal education. Participants will gain practical ideas for strengthening partnerships between schools, youth programs, and community anchors to expand access to meaningful learning experiences.
Monday, March 2, 2026 | Workshop 3, 2:15–3:30 PM
Featuring Ron Fairchild, President and CEO, Smarter Learning Group, Dr. Munro Richardson, Executive Director, Read Charlotte, Sarah Cole, President and CEO, Glazer Children’s Museum, Leanne White, Director of Learning and Conservation, Jacksonville Zoo, Emily Duguid, Orlando Science Center, Georgette Spratling, City of North Miami Public Library.
Inspiring Communities Through Sports & Education
Leagues, teams, and companies in the sports industry have a unique opportunity to leverage their brands for good. This panel will explore the importance of cross-sector collaboration in service of community impact with NBA and MLS teams, featuring a series of pro sports panelists who have collaborated on STEM and workforce development initiatives across the country.
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | Workshop 1, 9:45–11:00 AM
Featuring Nick Monzi, CEO and Co-Founder, Learn Fresh, Kenyah Jordan-Jackson, Social Responsibility and Youth Engagement Specialist, Orlando Magic, Julia Broudy, Manager, Community Relations, Los Angeles Football Club.
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Past Highlights
