Drury University calls for 2025 Non-Profit Leadership Conference presentation proposals

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., April 1, 2025 – Presentation proposals are now being accepted for the 14th annual Drury University Nonprofit Leadership Conference. The 2025 conference will take place Friday, Oct. 3 at Oasis Hotel & Convention Center. All sessions will feature in-person presentations. Individuals with relevant presentation proposals are encouraged to submit them for consideration.

“The Way Forward” is the 2025 conference theme, and it acknowledges the ongoing change and uncertainty that non-profit organizations are navigating, and inspires attendees to explore ideas, opportunities, and frameworks that can fuel progress and meaningful action.

“We were thrilled with the record attendance at the 2024 Nonprofit Leadership Conference and are pleased to expand our programming in 2025 to meet the demand for high quality and affordable professional development,” says Dr. Regina Waters, Conference Co-Planner. “By adding a fourth track in Finance and Operations, we can directly serve those nonprofit leaders and board members who are responsible for the financial health of the organization. We’re eager to receive proposals for this new programming area.”

Conference planners invite proposals which fit into one of the following tracks:

• Track 1: Leadership and Governance
  This track is designed for nonprofit leaders and board members seeking to strengthen their leadership skills and enhance governance practices. We are interested in proposals that explore the evolving role of leadership in a changing world, including strategies for fostering a resilient organizational culture and building diverse, effective boards. Sessions may also address how leaders are using technology, AI, and innovation in governance (e.g., policy development and decision-making). Attendees will gain practical insights to lead with confidence, inspire teams, and advance the organization’s mission.
• Track 2: Fundraising and Development
  This track is designed for leaders and team members interested in new and proven strategies to sustain and grow their organization’s funding base. From overcoming challenges in fundraising environment to maximizing donor engagement and retention, attendees will leave with actionable ideas to diversify their revenue streams. We are interested in proposals on donor stewardship, online fundraising, and adapting practices to changing economic conditions. Special focus will be placed on grant writing and grant management, providing tools and resources to effectively pursue funding opportunities, manage grants, and navigate compliance requirements.
• Track 3: Communication and Marketing
  This track is designed for the individuals or teams who are responsible for internal and external communication, brand awareness, and community engagement. We are interested in proposals on how to harness digital marketing, social media strategies, and storytelling to elevate an organization’s brand and increase visibility. Attention should be given to the appropriate metrics that help assess outcomes and effectiveness. Additionally, with the increasing use of artificial intelligence in marketing, we’re interested in helping attendees learn how AI tools can streamline content creation, audience targeting, and engagement strategies, helping nonprofits maximize their marketing efforts and resources.
• Track 4: Operations and Finance – New Track for 2025!
  This track is for staff, leaders, and board members who are responsible for the core elements of financial health and operational efficiency. We are interested in presentations offering strategies for navigating and mitigating the effects of staff turnover and ensuring continuity, budgeting during times of uncertainty, and tools/technologies (AI and data management resources) that can streamline operations, enhance resource management, and improve financial transparency. Sessions included in this track should provide leaders of small or large nonprofit organizations with the insights needed to ensure strong operational and financial foundations.

The sessions will be 60 minutes each, approximately 50 minutes for the presentation followed by 10 minutes of Q & A. Presenters should provide concrete takeaways and tools for participants through engaging and interactive sessions. Presentation materials will be shared with attendees after the event.

Proposals will be accepted through Tuesday, May 1, and can be submitted online. For further information about the conference, contact Dr. Regina Waters at rwaters@drury.edu or call 417-873-7251.

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Media Contact: Cris Belvin, Director of University Communications & Media Relations | (417) 873-7392 | gbelvin@drury.edu