Strengthening Leadership Gift Appeals

Includes a Live Web Event on 10/29/2026 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

OVERVIEW

In annual giving - just as with any other type of fundraising effort - the majority of the money raised will almost always come from a relatively small group of a campaign's top donors. That’s why it’s so important to develop strong personalized engagement strategies and solicitations for this important group. Doing so will not only increase the chances that your appeals and other communications will stand out, but it will go a long way to making your best prospects and donors feel special and appreciated.

WHAT YOU GET

Understanding of current trends and best practices
Insight into how other programs approach their work
Examples that you can incorporate into your own strategies
Chance to submit questions and chat with colleagues
Copies of all event materials
Opportunity to earn CFRE credit

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Dan Allenby (Host)

President & Founder | Annual Giving Network

Dan Allenby is an author, speaker, and consultant who has worked with educational institutions for over 25 years to improve their fundraising results. An internationally-recognized expert on annual giving, he is the recipient of CASE’s prestigious “Crystal Apple” award for teaching excellence. He is principal and founder of Annual Giving Network and previously led annual giving and membership programs at Boston University, Tufts University, Georgetown University, and the National Geographic Society.

Joe Castaldi

Director, Leadership Annual Giving at the College of the Holy Cross

Joe Castaldi currently serves as the Director, Leadership Annual Giving at the College of the Holy Cross. He has previously held roles at Boston College, Colorado State University, and Iowa State University. His other experience includes athletics fundraising. Joe holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and Public Policy from Penn State University and a Master of Science in Sport Administration from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania.

Katherine Leatherman

Senior Associate Director of Direct Marketing at the University of Virginia

Katherine Leatherman currently serves as the Senior Associate Director of Direct Marketing at the University of Virginia. Her other experience includes athletics coaching and public relations Internship in the Arts. Katherine holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English from Christopher Newport University and an M.A. in Strategic Communication from American University.

Amanda Talbot

Assistant Director of Annual Leadership Giving at Brown University

Amanda Talbot currently serves as the Assistant Director of Annual Leadership Giving at Brown University. She has previously led programs at Providence College. Her other experience includes sales and media. Amanda holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management from Providence College.