Plenary sessions

Tuesday, June 15 | 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Sponsored by Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

This uplifting conference kickoff envisions a sector that mobilizes unlikely partnerships—especially in times of crisis—to create shared vision and real change. Philanthropic leaders are uniquely positioned to help various stakeholders find what unites them rather than focus on what divides them. In a time of deep divisions, this is a powerful role to play. But how can we create the trust necessary to enable seemingly disparate groups to take action together? A diverse set of residents and public, nonprofit, philanthropic and corporate leaders in Los Angeles were able to do just that to lay forth a bold vision for a more equitable future for their city. Learn what it took to build trust and forge a shared agenda among a set of stakeholders and partners not accustomed to working together. This conversation will explore the challenges and opportunities for philanthropy as we work to create a better future for everyone by seeking common ground.

Welcome & Introductions: Kathleen Enright, President & CEO, Council on Foundations; Peter Laugharn, President and CEO, Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, Deidre Lind, President & CEO, Mayor's Fund for Los Angeles; Alandra Washington, Vice President for Transformation and Organizational Effectiveness, W.K. Kellogg Foundation

Special Appearance: Eric Garcetti, Mayor, City of Los Angeles

Moderator: Monica Lozano, President and CEO, College Futures Foundation

Speakers: Raul Anaya, President, Business Banking and President - Greater Los Angeles, Bank of America; Kathleen Kelly Janus, Senior Advisor on Social Innovation, Office of Governor Gavin Newsom; Miguel Santana, President & CEO, Weingart Foundation; April Verrett, President, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Local 2015

Wednesday, June 16 | 11:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m. | Sponsored by Knight Foundation

How can philanthropy advance equity and inclusivity in every aspect of our work? The compounding crises of the last year prompted many foundations to commit to embedding equity across their organizations and in their funding, but many remain unsure where to start. Join us to learn from nonprofit leaders who will share their personal journeys to create equity both through and within their organizations. You'll leave this session with the inspiration and practical ideas you need to make your organization's commitment to equity real.

Special Appearance: Cory Booker, United States Senator, New Jersey

Welcome & Introductions: Juan Martinez, Vice President, CFO, and Treasurer, John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

Moderator: Mai-Anh Tran, Chief Financial Officer, Ford Foundation

Speakers: Paul Di Donato, President and CEO, Proteus Fund; Natosha Reid Rice, Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Habitat for Humanity International; Eddy Zheng, President & Founder, New Breath Foundation

Thursday, June 17 | 11:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

How can philanthropy meet the needs of our communities and our world with fierce urgency? What does philanthropy need from the Council to be able to shape a future that is better for everyone? The board and staff of the Council on Foundations, with generous member guidance, have created a new strategic direction. This strategy takes a 20-year outlook to enable both the Council and the field of philanthropy to meet the scale and complexity of the challenges before us. Join Council President & CEO, Kathleen Enright, and Council Board Chair and McKnight Foundation President, Tonya Allen, to learn more about the Council’s vision for the future and plans for the work ahead.

Speakers: Tonya Allen, President, McKnight Foundation; Kathleen Enright, President & CEO, Council on Foundations

Thursday, June 17 | 3:30-4:15 p.m. | Sponsored by Walton Family Foundation

How do we rebuild in the wake of a series of global crises? And what is philanthropy’s role in the work ahead? Hear compelling visions from three innovative thinkers with different perspectives on and experiences with philanthropy as they motivate and inspire each of us to play our part in raising the bar and charting a course to build a better future, together.

Special Appearance: Paul Ryan, Former Speaker, United States House of Representatives

Welcome & Introductions: Caryl Stern, Executive Director, Walton Family Foundation

Speakers: Armando Castellano, Trustee, Castellano Family Foundation; James Head, President & CEO, East Bay Community Foundation; Sandy Ho, Research Associate, Lurie Institute for Disability Policy

Closing Remarks: Tonya Allen, President, McKnight Foundation