CSM to Host its 15th Annual Nonprofit Institute Conference April 10; Registration Closes April 7

Nonprofit groups from across the region are invited to attend the College of Southern Maryland’s (CSM’s) 15th Annual Nonprofit Institute Conference April 10 at its La Plata Campus.  

This year’s conference, “Nonprofits Built for Success through Access, Momentum, and Mobility,” will feature the unveiling of a new strategic plan for the Nonprofit Institute; 15 breakout sessions; networking opportunities; exhibitor presentations; new wellness offerings; and a post conference, in-person social networking event.  

“CSM’s Nonprofit Institute encourages and invites nonprofit organizations in Southern Maryland to come together at this conference to see and hear what’s new and learn what resources and opportunities are available to support their growth and success,” said Stephanie Rolle, director of the CSM Nonprofit Institute.  

Registration closes April 7. Register here: Nonprofit Institute April 10, 2025 Conference. The conference will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Center for Business and Industry (BI) Building at CSM’s La Plata Campus, 8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata.  

The event will open with remarks from CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson, followed by a keynote presentation by Rolle and the Strategic Partner Council.  

Attendees will have access to multiple breakout sessions throughout the day, covering a wide variety of topics for nonprofit groups. These sessions are designed to provide practical skill building and timely insights to help nonprofit professionals navigate change, and enhance organizational efficiency, Rolle said.   

The first session, “AI for Nonprofits,” will be led by Dominic Fragman, program manager of Leadership Southern Maryland, and Sybol Anderson, executive director of Leadership Southern Maryland. This hands-on session will have participants use artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to explore their application in real-world tasks.  

Other sessions include: 

“Maximizing Momentum: Fundraising Strategies to Leverage in Community,” presented by Kelly McLaughlin, chief executive officer of From Scratch Fundraising.  

“Automated Advocacy 101,” presented by Ashley Teagle, chief executive officer of the Southern Maryland Regional Library Association. 

“Diversifying Revenue to Achieve Nonprofit Sustainability,” presented by Michelle Sullivan, director of philanthropy of Chesapeake Charities.  

“Find Your North Star: Manage Your Health and Wellness to be your Best You,” presented by Kandace Foreman, assistant professor at CSM. 

“Connecting with the For-Profit Business Sector,” presented by Darin Nielsen, chief executive officer of ACE Consulting Group.  

“Stronger Boards, Stronger Nonprofits: Building Momentum in Governance,” presented by Wendy Jeffries, founder of Spark Solutions Consulting.  

“The Future of AI in Nonprofit Marketing: Trends and Tools for 2025,” presented by Chris Ripley, CSM assistant professor.  

“Resilience: Program Evaluation as a Strategy for Health Reckoning,” presented by Dr. Ashima Singh, owner and consultant of ashimasingh.org and Dr. Tristi Nichols, principal, program evaluation and international development, of MANiTOU.  

“Creative Tools for an Engaging Leader,” presented by Ann Davis, day and community program supervisor of Spring Dell Center.  

“Meet the Funders,” a panel discussion with panelists Christie Burnett, executive director of Charles County Charitable Trust; Megan D’Arcy, program administrator with the Rural Maryland Council; and Maisha Douyon-Cover, program officer, community health and social impact, with CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield.  

“Progress Through Uncertainty: How to Keep Your Strategic Plan Moving Forward,” presented by Matt Gayer, executive director of Spur Local, and Chiara Frechette, director of nonprofit programs, of Spur Local.  

“Communications Strategies for Nonprofits,” presented by Joseph Corbe, chief executive officer of 1631 Digital, and Kevin Maljak, chief systems officer of 1631 Digital.  

“Partnerships in Motion: Sustaining Programs for Access, Momentum, and Mobility,” presented by Dynell Kellyman, founder and principal consultant of Purposed for Partnership. 

“What is Your Resilience P.L.A.N.?” presented by Sacha Thompson, chief executive officer of The Equity Equation.  

For more information about the 15th Annual Nonprofit Institute Conference, please visit Annual Conference.