Katie Abernathy: Chief Executive Officer, Alpha Gamma Delta | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Katie Abernathy serves as the Chief Executive Officer for Alpha Gamma Delta International Women’s Fraternity. Katie began her Alpha Gam journey at the University of Idaho. As a collegiate member, Katie served her community as Panhellenic President and worked as a Leadership Consultant for Alpha Gamma Delta upon graduation. Katie’s career has had many diverse turns including serving as the Editor of the Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly, Senior Consultant with KPMG Consulting and staff member of the Lacy School of Business at Butler University. Katie lives in Carmel with her Hoosier husband and two awesome daughters. She has served on the Amplifying Sorority Research Committee since 2023.
Jen Magro Algarotti, PhD: Director of Strategic Communications, Delta Gamma Foundation | Foundation staff size: 10+
Jen Magro Algarotti, PhD, is the director of strategic communications for the Delta Gamma Foundation where she oversees all aspects of marketing, communications, and annual giving for the Foundation. Prior to joining the Delta Gamma Foundation, Jen was the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Kappa Foundation. A member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, Jen has worked in the non-profit and higher education landscape for the past twenty-five years, focusing on teaching and learning, marketing and communications, and fundraising. She has previously held faculty roles at The Ohio State University, George Mason University, and Denison University. She lives in Columbus, OH.
Michael Ayalon: CEO, Greek University | NIC Bronze Alliance Partner
As an award-winning speaker, author, social media figure, hazing prevention expert, host of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, and CEO of Greek University, Dr. Michael Ayalon is a recognized thought leader in the realms of fraternity and sorority life, business leadership, and higher education. Dr. Mike is able to take lessons learned from helping to build companies from startup to over $25 Million in annual sales, as well as best practices as the Former Executive Director of Sigma Pi Fraternity with 120 chapters and over 115,000 members, to create dynamic, positive, and results-driven keynotes and workshops that transform people’s lives.
Katy Bate: Donor Engagement Director, Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Working for and volunteering with nonprofit organizations, Katy Bate has come to realize the importance of defining an organization’s short‐ and long‐term goals and developing a plan to meet those goals. Before joining Theta Foundation, Katy worked for a nonprofit consulting firm and served a broad range of organizations in Washington, D.C., New York City, London, and Houston, including Manning Camerata (a chamber orchestra founded by the Concert Master of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House), The Menil Collection, Discovery Green, Southwest Alternate Media Project, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
Nick Bratvold, CFRE: Vice President – Philanthropy, Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Nick Bratvold, CFRE, is the Vice President of the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation, overseeing frontline fundraising, prospecting, grant making, and philanthropic services. Nick has been with the Foundation since 2020 and is a graduate of the University of South Dakota (B.S. 2016; M.A. 2017). In addition to his professional roles, he serves as a board member for Fraternity & Sorority Political Action Committee, his local house corporation, and as a University of South Dakota trustee and alumni association board member.
Clay Buck, CFRE: Founder & Principal, Next River Fundraising Strategies
Joe Budde: Vice President, Client Success, re:Members | NIC/FFE Distinguished Titanium Alliance Partner
Jill Carrel: Executive Director, Pi Beta Phi Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Jill Carrel is the Executive Director of the Pi Beta Phi Foundation. She leads the Foundation, working closely with the Foundation Board of Trustees, volunteers, staff and partners to oversee all aspects of the Foundation. Jill’s commitment to the fraternal industry is evident throughout her long career, which has involved working with numerous organizations in various fundraising roles. She leads with a grateful heart and finds joy in taking part in the tradition of philanthropy and service.
Jeff Dubberley: Vice President Research, Cygnus Applied Research
View bio here.
Robert Davis: President, SmarterSelect | FFE Gold Alliance Partner
Robert Davis is President of SmarterSelect, the leading provider of scholarship and grant management software. He has over 17 years of experience understanding and providing innovative solutions to the Greek community and other non-profit organizations across the world.
Ann DiAntonio: Donor Relations Officer, Alpha Chi Omega Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Ann serves as a Donor Relations Officer for the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, where she leverages a dynamic background in storytelling, strategic communication, and relationship-building to advance the Foundation’s mission. With over a decade of experience as a top-performing professional in a multi-billion-dollar sales organization and a former Chief of Staff at a regional marketing firm, Ann brings a unique, cross-functional blend of analytical insight and creative strategy to her role. Her academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Clemson University and a Master of Science in Biological and Physical Science with a concentration in Pharmacology from the University of Virginia. Ann is preparing to sit for her CFRE exam later this year.
Will Foran: Executive Director, Foundation for Fraternal Excellence | Foundation staff size: 3-5
Will has worked with fraternity leaders for 20 years in various professional and volunteer roles. Previously at the NIC, he served as Director of Education and Leadership Development, Vice President of Education, Vice President of University Relations, Senior Vice President of Campus Operations and Chief Operating Officer. As FFE’s Executive Director, Will oversees the day-to-day functions of the staff team and supports the Board of Directors in addition to supporting the NIC and FFE’s Alliance Partner Program. Will is a founding member of his chapter of Phi Mu Delta fraternity, initiated at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Allison Foster, CFRE: Chief Development Officer, Alpha Chi Omega Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Allison serves as Chief Development Officer with the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. She has spent over 20 years in higher education and the fraternal world as her career is focused on work on campuses and within fraternal staff teams for both the Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity and Foundation. She obtained her CFRE in 2023.
Allison believes in the power of relationships and the impact they can have on the forward movement of organizations. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Stetson University and a Master of Arts in Education, Concentration: Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of Connecticut.
Katie Gates: Marketing & Communications Manager, Alpha Phi Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Katie Gates is the marketing and communications manager for Alpha Phi Foundation. Prior to joining Alpha Phi Foundation, Katie served as Director of Marketing & Membership for Lawrence Country Club Kansas. A graduate of Oregon State University, Katie currently serves as a Chapter Advisor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as well as Alumnae Engagement for her chapter and resides in Lawrence, Kansas, with her husband and three wonderful daughters.
Brian Gawor, CFRE: Consultant, JGA | FFE Gold Alliance Partner
Brian Gawor, CFRE is a 25-year fundraising expert who has worked with hundred of clients across higher education, Greek organizations, social service and arts nonprofits. A former annual giving leader and gift officer, he now focuses on using actionable data at scale to enhance donor engagement. A dedicated “giving geek,” Brian regularly blogs, podcasts and releases research about the changing behaviors of today’s donors and their cause adoption.
Rebecca Gentry: Associate Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, University of Houston & International Volunteer – Chair, Alumnae Relations Directors Team, Alpha Delta Pi | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Rebecca Gentry is the Associate Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Leadership Gifts at the University of Houston, and serves Alpha Delta Pi as Chair, Alumnae Relations Directors Team. At UH, she oversees the leadership/principal gifts program, including presidential engagement strategies, board and volunteer engagement, student philanthropy ambassadors, special projects and strategic planning. Previously, she has held executive advancement and campaign leadership positions in museums, historic homes, non-profit organizations and foundations in Washington, DC, Atlanta and Miami. She has led programs in annual giving, campaign planning and management, integrated communications strategies, national and regional partnership development, board development and relations, donor relations and stewardship, events strategy and execution, and training. Rebecca received her bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University and is a proud ADPi volunteer leader.
Zac Gillman: Account Executive, re:Members | NIC/FFE Distinguished Titanium Alliance Partner
Zac is the Account Executive at re:Members. From an entry-level traveling consultant to his Fraternity’s CIO, Zac spent nearly a decade helping people leverage technology and focus on improving culture. He has designed multiple custom solutions to support day-of-giving campaigns, helping SigEp grow their annual fund and improve donor relations.
Ben Gold: Speaker and Consultant, Greek University | NIC Bronze Alliance Partner
Ben Gold is an AI Consultant, thought leader, and speaker specializing in practical AI solutions for individuals and organizations. While most consultants stop at theory, Ben dives into actionable steps, working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. In many industry verticals and for many organization types, Ben brings a fresh, real-world approach to leveraging AI for everyday success.
Marsha Grady, CFRE: Former Chief Development Officer, Alpha Chi Omega Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Marsha Grady recently retired from her position as CDO of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, which she had held since 2017. Prior to that, she served 5 years on staff as a major gift officer and 12 years on the Foundation board of trustees and Fraternity National Council, including 4 years as National President. Before embarking on a nonprofit fundraising career, Marsha had over 20 years of business management and consulting experience in a variety of industries with a focus on quality and continuous improvement. For 10 years, Marsha co-owned Tricend Consulting, where she focused on organizational and individual performance improvement. Marsha has an MBA from the University of Alabama and currently holds CFRE designation. She has previously held Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Six Sigma Black Belt, and LEAN process improvement certifications.
Michael Greenberg: President, Sigma Chi Foundation | Foundation staff size: 10+
Mike Greenberg became the President of the Sigma Chi Foundation in October of 2024. Prior to joining the Foundation staff, Mike served in nearly every volunteer role for Sigma Chi, most recently serving as the 68th Grand Consul, a member of the Foundation Board of Governors, and Chairman of the Sigma Chi Leadership Institute. As a Foundation Board of Governors member, he helped to secure more than 90% of all transformational gifts ($1m+) received by the Foundation since 2014 and secured the largest cash gift in the history of Sigma Chi ($12 million).
Ted Grossnickle, CFRE: Senior Consultant & Founder, JGA | FFE Gold Alliance Partner
Ted Grossnickle, CFRE, Senior Consultant and Founder, Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates – Ted brings decades of experience in advancement to help clients to think strategically about the fundraising efforts. A leader to the JGA team and to the broader nonprofit community, he is known for his authentic voice and commitment to guiding organizations to achieve their best. He is deeply engaged in the nonprofit sector as an author, speaker, teacher, and board member and has received numerous honors and awards for his achievements. He currently serves as a member and is a former chair of the Giving Institute, serves on the board of Garrett Theological Seminar, and is counselor to The Generosity Commission: A National Conversation on Giving and Voluntary Action.
Melissa Hammer: Associate Director of Communications, Kappa Delta Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Melissa Hammer is the Associate Director of Communications for the Kappa Delta Foundation where she is responsible for the development and implementation of the foundation’s strategic communications plan. Prior to joining the foundation staff in 2019, Melissa was senior acquisitions editor for the University Press of Kentucky. She is a Kappa Delta from Bradley University and earned a master’s in organizational leadership and a certificate in nonprofit administration from Western Kentucky University. She is past president of the Junior League of Lexington, Kentucky, where she lives with her husband, Joe, daughter, Eva, and their retired racing greyhound, Hip Hop.
Max Harper: Director of Development & Planned Giving, Butler University
Max Harper is a mission-driven fundraiser with six years of experience on the frontline of fundraising efforts at United Way of Central Indiana and Butler University. From annual giving to principal and planned giving, he has experience maximizing philanthropic relationships to benefit the donor and the entire organization.
Dan Hartmann, CFRE, CAP: President & CEO, Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Dan Hartmann, CFRE, CAP, President & CEO, Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation – Two decades of philanthropic experience, ranging from $3B higher ed institution campaign to a top performing fraternal foundation. Dan leads a 15 person professional staff team at Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation, which has received numerous FFE Awards of Distinction for their innovative philanthropic strategy and execution over the last five years.
Jessi Horne: Senior Director of Strategic Communications, Phi Mu Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Jessi Horne leads communication and marketing efforts for Phi Mu Foundation. Prior to coming on board with the Foundation in 2014, Jessi spent her career in public affairs and communications with The Coca-Cola Company based in Atlanta, Georgia. A graduate of Florida State University, Jessi has twin 15-year-old daughters and resides in Savannah, Georgia.
John Keith, J.D.: Senior Consultant, JGA | FFE Gold Alliance Partner
John T. Keith, J.D., Senior Consultant, Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates – John brings an extensive depth of expertise in planned giving, major gift development, campaigns, leadership annual giving, and the role of volunteer engagement in fundraising. While serving 18 years at Indiana University, John’s gift planning team was responsible for securing more than $500M in new major and planned gift commitments. John is a member of the Indiana State Bar, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, and the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. John is also a past Board President of Planned Giving Group of Indiana (now known as Charitable Gift Planners Indiana) and has previously served as chair of Giving USA’s Donor Advised Fund Research Advisory Council.
Ryan King, CFRE: Chief Advancement Officer, Delta Upsilon Educational Foundation | Foundation staff size: 3-5
Ryan has worked in the fraternal industry for 24 years, including 16 years in fundraising and development. He currently serves as the Chief Advancement Officer for the Delta Upsilon Educational Foundation (DUEF). He is responsible for leading all cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and campaign strategies for the DUEF.
Greg Lamb: Vice President, Triangle Education Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Greg Lamb is Vice President of the Triangle Education Foundation and has more than 30 years of non-profit management, consulting, alumni relations, and fundraising experience. Greg has previously led development programs for the University of Kansas School of Business and University of Iowa Henry B. Tippie College of Business. He has served his fraternity, Delta Upsilon, both on the professional staff and as a local and national volunteer.
Lucy Love, CFRE: Major Gifts Officer, Alpha Delta Pi Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Lucy Love is a certified nonprofit management and leadership professional with a passion for creating strategic vision, developing leadership strengths in others, identifying new and sustainable fundraising opportunities, and acting as a catalyst for change. She has spent most of her career in higher education fundraising and stepped into her role as Major Gifts Officer with the Alpha Delta Pi Foundation in the summer of 2022. Lucy received both her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and her Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership Studies with an emphasis in Human Development and Leadership from Murray State University.
Bob McKenney: President, Pennington & Company | NIC/FFE Distinguished Titanium Alliance Partner
View bio here.
Maria Mandel: Director of Scholarship & Grants, Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation | Foundation staff size: 3-5
In this session, Maria Mandel from Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation shares how her organization transformed scholarship payments with SendGrant from SmarterSelect. Learn how this fraternal foundation efficiently manages 500+ applicants and $230,000 in annual scholarships while strengthening relationships with recipients and donors.
Leslie Loop Martin, MPH, CFRE: Executive Director, Delta Gamma Foundation | Foundation staff size: 10+
Leslie has worked in the fraternal fundraising industry for 22 years, 19 of those with Delta Gamma. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Delta Gamma Foundation and is responsible for leading all organizational operations.
Heather Moore: Counsel, Faegre Drinker Biddle and Reath LLP | FFE Silver Alliance Partner
Heather Moore advises nonprofit clients, including fraternities and sororities, colleges and universities, and private foundations. Heather addresses their comprehensive needs on issues related to formation, internal governance, ongoing compliance, general tax advice, and the preparation of related documents and policies. Her work with Greek organizations includes providing advice to Code § 501(c)(7) social clubs regarding the unique aspects of their tax-exempt status and general corporate matters; advising Greek foundations on matters related to the rules governing Code § 501(c)(3) organizations, charitable giving and corporate governance; and counsel with respect to the structure and operations of housing corporations and related real estate transactions.
Emily Musser: VP, Client Relations, AMG National Trust | FFE Diamond Alliance Partner
Emily Musser is Vice President of Client Relations for AMG National Trust. With AMG, Emily oversees a number of initiatives and areas related to positive and rewarding client experiences. In addition, she also works on advisory teams for foundation and endowment clients. Prior to joining AMG National Trust Bank in 2006, she led fundraising efforts for the Dallas and Colorado Symphonies. Emily received her BA from Luther College. She is active in the community, currently serving as the Fundraising Chair for Teller Elementary, on Tri Delta’s Enterprise Finance Committee, and on the board of the Foundation for Fraternal Excellence.
Meghan Parker: Executive Director, Zeta Tau Alpha | Foundation staff size: 3-5
Meghan is the Chief Executive Officer for Zeta Tau Alpha’s International Office. Prior to her return in 2016, she served on staff from 2005-2009 in multiple roles, including traveling for the organization as a Leadership Consultant. From 2009-2016, Meghan worked as a campus-based professional at St. Edwards University and Texas State University. Meghan has served as the Amplifying Sorority Research Committee Chair since the initiative launched in 2023.
Meghan graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. She lives in Westfield, Indiana with her husband Aaron and their three children, Hayden, Elliot and Charleigh Mae, and their two dogs.
Cindee Riordan: Major Gifts Officer, Alpha Delta Pi Foundation & Alpha Omicron Pi Foundation | Foundation staff sizes: 5-10 and 3-5, respectively
Cindee Riordan serves in a uniquely created position as Major Gifts Officer for both the Alpha Delta Pi & Alpha Omicron Pi Foundations. Prior to working in the sorority foundation space, Cindee successfully led the $40 million United For the Future Endowment campaign for United Way of South Hampton Roads. Cindee’s experience in the non-profit sector and with national Presidential and Senatorial political campaigns gives her a distinctive insight into the philanthropic interests of major gift donors. Cindee received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism at University of Georgia where she was a member of Chi Omega and earned her Master’s degree from Georgetown University.
Tiana Ronstadt: Behavioral Financial Advisor Power Women Investing & Board Vice President, Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Tiana Ronstadt, the powerhouse behind Power Women Investing in Tucson, founded the firm in 2006 with a mission to help individuals achieve true financial independence. As a top producer with Osaic Wealth, Tiana is known not only for her innovative thinking but also for the deep empathy she brings to every client relationship—a trait shaped by her own personal journey, including the sudden loss of her father at age 18. A respected speaker and mentor, Tiana is a guiding voice in both the financial industry and her local Tucson community, especially during life’s most challenging transitions. She also proudly serves as Vice President on the Board of Directors for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation.
Chris Smith: Director of Systems, Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity & Foundation | Foundation staff size: 3-5
Chris Smith serves as the Director of Systems for Alpha Tau Omega National Fraternity and Director of Research for the ATO Foundation. With over 15 years of experience, he leads data strategy and analytics to enhance member engagement, improve chapter operations, and drive fundraising effectiveness. His work bridges membership trends and donor behavior to inform organizational decision-making.
Mary Kate Smith: Programs Director, Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Mary Kate has been working for Theta Foundation for 10 years, starting out as programs coordinator and advancing into her current role as programs director in 2021. She oversees all aspects of Theta Foundation’s scholarship and grant programs, from application development to award distribution. Notably, she won an award at FFE Seminar in 2024 for her work on a new ‘Scholarships Directory’ on Theta’s website. She is passionate about making opportunities accessible for today’s college students and building relationships with stakeholders.
Rachel Soll: Assistant Director of Advancement, Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Rachel Soll is an experienced leader skilled in cultivating meaningful relationships with internal and external partners. Having worked in community relations and special events for the Tampa Bay Rays and The Walt Disney Company, as well as within the nonprofit industry, Rachel has positioned herself as an expert in coaching individuals and groups on fundraising strategies and best practices. She is driven by developing creative ways to help others make a philanthropic impact in their communities and beyond.
Kelly Wesley Taylor: Owner / Founder, Taylor Bell Consulting | FFE Platinum Alliance Partner
Kelly Wesley Taylor, J.D., is a planned giving expert and a founder of Taylor Bell Consulting, formerly Trek Advancement, known for her passion in guiding comprehensive campaigns and talent as a strategic thinker. With a background spanning University Advancement at the University of Louisville and Harvard University, Kelly energizes others into action, simplifying complex situations to help clients define their strategic goals and create unique roadmaps for success. Driven by a commitment to excellence and a belief in philanthropy as an expression of human connectedness, Kelly strives to design a life well-lived through her work. Kelly currently serves as chair of the board of trustees for an independent school in Lexington, Kentucky.
Erik Tomalis: Chief Revenue Officer, Avid
A proven fundraising professional that is forward thinking, people driven, most of all results oriented. 20+ yrs of fundraising experience, making 5,000+ donor solicitations raising millions of dollars for non-profit organizations, such as St. Jude, Sigma Nu, Boy Scouts and Allegheny Health. As well, he’s served as an executive leader Pursuant-Ketchum, Virtuous and now Avid.
At Avid, Erik is committed to helping nonprofits grow global generosity. He believes that giving is about personal connections, not transactions. Generosity is driven by our passions and relationships – and givers want to feel like they are part of a movement bigger than themselves.
Jen Webb, CFRE: Executive Director, Alpha Delta Pi Foundation | Foundation staff size: 5-10
Jennifer Webb has served as Executive Director for the Alpha Delta Pi Foundation since August 2010. Prior to joining the Foundation, Jen spent 10 years working at Ashland University; first as the Director of Annual Giving, before becoming their Major Gifts Officer, and finally as their Director of Major Gifts & Endowed Scholarships. Before beginning her career in development, Jen worked in statewide politics in Columbus, Ohio. Jen is a Certified Fundraising Executive and has her MBA from Ashland University with a specialization in entrepreneurship.
Megan Smiley Wick: Chief Executive Officer, Gamma Phi Beta | Foundation staff size: 1-3
Jane Wilson: Partner, Faegre Drinker Biddle and Reath LLP | FFE Silver Alliance Partner
Jane Dall Wilson (Chi Omega) advises national fraternities and sororities on dispute resolution and compliance matters. Jane’s areas of focus include providing counsel related to internal governance, membership discipline and risk management. She is also a multifaceted business litigator and appellate advocate. She represents clients in complex litigation, including all manner of contract disputes, class actions, tort claims, insurance liquidation proceedings and employment matters. In addition to conflict resolution and trial work, Jane is regularly involved with briefing and argument on appeal.
Kyle Yarawsky: Senior Vice President, Pennington & Company | NIC/FFE Distinguished Titanium Alliance Partner
Kyle Yarawsky is a Senior Vice President at Pennington & Company, where he has conducted studies and campaigns for sixteen local and national campaigns raising funds for housing, scholarships, and leadership programing. In addition to his campaign work, Kyle oversees the training and professional development of Pennington & Company’s consulting team. He also leads the firm’s training programs for foundation staff and volunteers.
