Scholarships Open Opportunities: Natalie Glumm shares her experience from AFP ICON
Natalie Glumm, Managing Director of Corporate Giving at PBS Wisconsin, enriched her fundraising experience earlier this spring by attending the world’s number-one fundraising conference, AFP ICON, in Toronto, Canada.
The conference, which took place from April 7 to 9, allowed Natalie to interact with fundraising professionals from around the world.
During the conference, Natalie built relationships, shared ideas, and learned from others in the field during informal get-togethers. She also learned about best practices, innovative strategies, and emerging trends during the workshops and seminars.
“Attending AFP ICON contributed to my ongoing professional development,” says Natalie. “The conference offered valuable learning experiences and opportunities. I left Toronto with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to bring actionable ideas back to my team and community.
“I especially enjoyed hearing keynote speaker Nikole Hannah-Jones,” Natalie says. “She is AMAZING! Nikole is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter covering racial injustice for The New York Times Magazine and the creator of the original docuseries The 1619 Project. Hearing her story and her accomplishments was so inspiring!”
Another of the sessions that Natalie attended was so impactful that she shared the content at a team retreat just one week after she returned to the States.
“I attended Corporate Giving Officers’ Top Ten Turn Offs, Straight from the Donor’s Mouth. During this session, two corporate leaders who oversee their company’s support of individuals and organizations shared their top ten turn-offs when reviewing proposals and applications, along with tips on how to prevent them. The session was insightful. I now have a better understanding of how to leverage the power of storytelling in corporate funding requests.
“It’s important that fundraisers learn how to craft compelling narratives that align with a corporate donor’s values. When we do that, we start to forge deeper connections, which can lead to more successful fundraising efforts.”
To help defray the costs of the conference, Natalie applied for a scholarship from AFP Greater Madison.
“The scholarship I received from AFP Greater Madison to attend AFP ICON was invaluable,” Natalie said. “I’m so thankful for the experience. I met new friends, learned from fundraising experts, and have goals to enhance the corporate giving program at my organization. The scholarship not only allowed me to attend the conference, but it also accentuates AFP’s commitment to supporting the professional development of fundraisers.”
AFP Greater Madison is dedicated to excellence in fundraising. One way the organization achieves this goal is through its scholarship program. Scholarships are available for conferences, membership, and individual learning sessions. Learn more at afpmadison.org/scholarships.
Next year, AFP ICON will take place in Seattle from April 27 to 29. If you would like to attend, consider applying for a scholarship through AFP Greater Madison.
