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 (Wallace Foundation), Dr. Anna Hinton (U.S. Department of Education), Kirsten Russell (Community Foundation of Sarasota County), and Deborah Marshall (American Funds), facilitated by Diane Melley (Philadelphia Foundation).
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
Facilitators: Ron Fairchild, President and CEO, Smarter Learning Group, Dr. Munro Richardson, Executive Director, Read Charlotte Panelists: 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 You won’t find these insights anywhere else—be sure to join this engaging panel at Beyond School Hours 2026.
Learn More About Each Speaker
Past Highlights
