About the Conference

On May 2-3, 2023, VFN will host its 2nd annual conference at The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center in beautiful Roanoke, Virginia. We anticipate more than 200 philanthropic leaders in attendance for two inspiring days of in-person learning, networking, and community-building. Focused specifically on the philanthropic community’s unique role in helping the Commonwealth capitalize on opportunities, address needs, and overcome challenges, you won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind gathering!

Registration now open!

Who is expected to attend?

 

In 2022, more than 170 philanthropy executives, trustees, and staff members representing 91 organizations attended VFN’s inaugural Stronger Together: Advancing Opportunities for All Virginians, making it the largest-ever gathering of Virginia’s philanthropic community. Of those in attendance, 50% were staff members, 25% CEOs, 12% Trustees, and 13% were Program Officers.

This year, we anticipate more than 200 attendees representing 100+ philanthropic organizations to join us  –  once again making VFN’s conference the largest-ever gathering of Virginia’s philanthropic community! 

 

 

FAQs

Q: Can my spouse attend?

A: Yes and no. The conference is specifically tailored for funders and their staff and leadership. However, your spouse can join us for the cocktail reception and dinner plenary on the evening of May 2nd for a nominal fee. In addition, our pre-conference walking tour is also open to your spouse. 

Q: Who attends the Virginia Funders Network’s Annual Conference?

A: The trustees, executive leadership, and staff members of more than 100 foundations and other grantmaking organizations across Virginia attend our conference each year. As a conference supporter, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with the Commonwealth’s top philanthropy leaders, build relationships, and explore opportunities for partnership.

 

Q: Is there a cancellation deadline & fee?

A: Full refunds will be provided for cancellations made at least 30 days in advance of the conference. Cancellations made at least 14 days in advance of the conference qualify for a 50% refund. No refunds will be offered for cancellations made within the 2 weeks leading up to the conference.

2023 Conference Planning Committee

Each year, the Annual Conference Planning Committee, comprised of VFN Advisory Board members, members, and event sponsors, is responsible for planning and hosting this valuable and inspiring gathering.

Tri-Chairs

Erin Hogan

Bank of America

Scott Blackwell

The Community Foundation

for a greater Richmond

Kelly Chopus

Community Collaborations

Members

Carolyn Champion

Dominion Energy

Mary Fant Donnan

The Alleghany Foundation

Eileen Ellsworth

Community Foundation

for Northern Virginia

Holly Hatcher

Genan Foundation

Denny Huff

Bedford Community Health 

Foundation

Edward Jones

Weissberg Foundation

Courtney Rice

Richmond Memorial Health

Foundation

Robert Simmons

Micron Foundation

Jessica Wirgau

Community Foundation of the  

New River Valley

Thanks to our 2023 sponsors!

Highlights from Last Year's Conference

Check out our YouTube page for 2022 conference session recordings.

To view the photo gallery from the inaugural conference, click here.