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"I'm returning to The Summit again this year because it was honestly the best conference experience I’ve ever had. The speakers were very generous with their experience and I left The Summit with a refreshed sense of excitement for fundraising and a larger network of BIPOC fundraising leaders."

- Alexandria Wyllie, Gateway Public Schools 

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The Event for People of Color in Philanthropy

June 23 & 24, 2025

The University of Chicago

Community - Leadership - Affinity - Progress

The Summit is an annual signature         Joy-Raising experience that brings together people of color in philanthropy. 

 

This  is a unique gathering of leaders include business and civic leaders, philanthropists and professionals engaged in dialogue and learning that moves the needle.

How? We hold discussions at the highest levels, foster authentic exchange of experiences and develop ideas that raise the bar for what is possible.  

Philanthropy engages our world's toughest issues. The Summit gathers the most  capable minds to prepare ourselves to tackle them.

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The Summit is a Community of  Leaders

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The Summit is for You

The Summit Experience:
Distinctively Transformative

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The Gordon Parks Arts Hall

A Beacon of History and Modernity

On the prestigious University of Chicago's campus lies the Gordon Parks Arts Hall, a state-of-the-art facility that embodies the spirit and dedication of the legendary photojournalist, Gordon Parks. With an unwavering commitment to social justice, Parks' legacy is beautifully intertwined with the hall's contemporary architecture and its embodiment of excellence. 

Join us, and let the fusion of history and innovation at this remarkable venue inspire you.

Industry Leaders

Unleash Your Potential with the Best!

At Joy-Raising, we're not just hosting another philanthropic event. We're curating a dynamic assembly of visionary leaders, each one trailblazing their way through society's most pressing challenges. Their stories resonate with authenticity, passion, and transformative impact.

Join us!

Dive deep into these exhilarating conversations and let their triumphs fuel your own journey to success.

This isn't just talk – it's a movement.

Gather with Peers

 The Ultimate Gathering!

In the vast landscape of philanthropy, many of us, as people of color, have walked into rooms where we're the sole torchbearers of our communities. We've risen to the occasion, gracefully maneuvering through these spaces, driven by the knowledge of our indispensable presence. Now, envision a space where that spark is multiplied, where every corner resonates with talent, passion, and unity. Welcome to The Summit - a haven where you're not 'the only', but part of a powerful majority, where you can unapologetically be your authentic self, driving transformative change for all.

Step in and seize the limitless possibilities!

Speakers for The Summit 2024

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What You Need to Know About The Summit 2025

When: June 23 & 24, 2025      

Where: University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Hyde Park, Chicago. 

Who: Philanthropy professionals and volunteers

Where to stay: We have arranged a special group block with the beautiful Sophy Hotel located near campus in Hyde Park. Use this link to make your reservation and receive a 15% discount:

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  • Book by Phone:

    • (833) 347 – 0042

    • Request Promo Code: SOCIAL

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 You may also consider Airbnb listings in Hyde Park     or         Many hotels in Chicago through Hotels.com

Support The Summit as a Sponsor: An Invitation to Connect & Empower

Who should attend The Summit?

Partner with The Summit, a distinctive platform where leaders of color in philanthropy converge annually for an influential assembly. Now in its triumphant third year, The Summit's significance and impact are expanding, resonating deeply with attendees and distinguished speakers alike.

Beyond just an event, The Summit offers enriching opportunities for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and networking within an ambiance of unwavering support and mutual understanding. By sponsoring, your organization not only aligns with this transformative experience but actively champions it. Discover the optimal sponsorship package tailored for your organization's vision. Contact us today, and let's make a difference together.

Sponsor Levels:

Platinum   $25,000        

Gold         $15,000         

Silver         $10,000          

Bronze       $ 5,000 

Copper     $  2,500      

Contact: tesha@joy-raising.com

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The Summit welcomes professionals and volunteers of color who champion positive change within nonprofits, foundations, corporate social responsibility efforts, and social enterprises. Our attendees include:

  • Executive Directors and CEOs

  • Board Members

  • Heads of School

  • Chief Advancement Officers

  • Directors of Development

  • Major Gift Officers

  • Program Officers

  • Marketing and Communications Managers

  • Dedicated Volunteers

  • And those aspiring to these roles

Whether you're just embarking on your journey in this sector or you're a seasoned expert, The Summit promises to deliver an invaluable experience tailored to your professional growth.

Why Attend? Engage with industry leaders, broaden your network, and immerse yourself in dynamic discussions that will shape the future of social impact. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative gathering.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Are refunds available if I am no longer able to attend the event?

A 50% refund will be available up until May 14, 2025.  After that date registration is nonrefundable.

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Join us in Chicago
June 23 & 24, 2025

Previous Speakers for The Summit

Take a look at the esteemed leaders who have inspired us at The Summit

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President and CEO- Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley, Former Mayor of San Jose

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CEO

Big Brothers, Big Sisters

New York

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President

Archbishop Mitty

High School

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Former Head of School

 The Center for Early Education

Emeritus Board Member, African American Board Leadership

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Head of School 

The Galloway School
Trustee

National Association of Independent Schools

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Board Chair

Spirit of Atlanta

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Board Chair

Live Oak School

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Founder &

Managing Director

Base Ventures

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Dr. Trent Haywood

Founder

Knowality
Former Chief Medical Officer, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

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Managing Partner

GGV Capital

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Co-Founder and

General Partner

Reach Capital

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Singer, Songwriter, Author, Philanthropist

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Author, Journalist, Screenwriter

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Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer, Comcast Corporation
President, Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation

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Executive Director 

Northern Illinois Community Initiatives

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Product Manager

 Social Impact, Meta

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President and CEO
Silicon Valley Community Foundation

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COO, Zenefits
Board Member, Silicon Valley Community Foundation

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CEO and President, ActBlue

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Artist and Architect

MacArthur Fellow

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President and CEO

The Skillman Foundation

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CEO

 Intersect Illinois

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Former Head of Philanthropy, 

United Nations Foundation

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President

Woods Fund

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Head of School,

Proctor Academy

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DRiWaterstone

Human Capital

Anheuser-Busch Foundation

Wellness as Your Superpower

Sustaining Your Impact 

Sustaining ourselves as philanthropy professionals is a challenge as we are always acting on behalf of others putting their interests and needs before our own.  This wise council of experts  provide guidance about how to thrive year after year 

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Senior Strategist

 The Osborne Group

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Founder and CEO

INOVO Strategic Consulting

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Michelle Lopes Maldonado

Founder, Lucenscia
Virginia House of Delegates

Candidate for Congress

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Dr. June Parks

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Educational Consultant

Lecturer

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