2025 Annual Member Gathering
Maryland Philanthropy Network’s Annual Member Gathering is an opportunity for members to connect, rejuvenate, and celebrate as a philanthropic community. In response to the enthusiastic request from our members, we are excited to offer additional in-person networking opportunities during this year’s all-member convening.
Members of Maryland Philanthropy Network, along with guests, will come together for
- an update from Danista E. Hunte on the current state of our Network,
- a panel of philanthropic leaders from member organizations about leading with courage,
- a compelling keynote address on courageous philanthropy,
- and conclude with a networking luncheon designed to foster connections and collaboration.
This year, our gathering is focused on the theme of "Courageous Philanthropy: Powering Possibility." The phrase "courageous philanthropy" emphasizes the boldness needed to tackle urgent social issues while remaining aligned with a funder's values. The phrase "powering possibility" emphasizes the potential that arises when resources, ideas, and passions are mobilized for a greater cause.
Recognizing that courage takes many forms, we honor and celebrate the variety of ways funders can and do act courageously in alignment with their values and mission. During our gathering, we will highlight a variety of ways those in our network are navigating complexity, acting courageously, and advancing their missions. We invite participants to reflect on their personal motivations for giving and encourage them to engage in transformative efforts that resonate deeply with their values. Attendees will leave with deeper connections, an inspired spirit, and practical insights for impactful philanthropy in today’s changing landscape.
Agenda
| 9:30 – 10:00 AM | Registration and Networking Continental Breakfast |
| 10:00 – 10:30 AM | Welcome and State of the Network |
| 10:30 – 11:15 AM | Leading with Courage – An MPN Member Panel |
| 11:15 – 11:30 AM | Networking Break |
| 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Keynote Address with Q & A |
| 12:15 – 1:30 PM | Luncheon |
Tickets
$100 per person
Our Annual Gathering is open for all members of Maryland Philanthropy Network. Select non-member guests will be invited by MPN. Please register by September 3, 2025.
We are offering a 10% discount for reservations of entire tables (8 seats). You have the option to reserve a table to sit together. Contact Megan to process this request.
Venue, Parking, & Accessibility
This year’s event will be hosted at The Meeting House in Columbia, MD. The Meeting House has over 250 free parking spaces to accommodate your parking needs. The entire facility, including the entrance and restrooms, is on one level and accessible. Please let us know if we can assist you with any additional accommodations in order to fully participate in this event.
Sponsors
Join us as an Event Sponsor!
As our network advances on our mission to build and activate a diverse, informed, and effective network of philanthropists to inspire transformational impact throughout Maryland, we invite you to consider sponsoring Maryland Philanthropy Network’s 2025 Annual Member Gathering. Your sponsorship will contribute to the honorarium for our keynote speaker, provide complimentary tickets for selected partners in the social sector, and support other vital event costs.
Click here for more information about Sponsorship.
Planning Committee
Thank you to the members serving on our Annual Member Gathering Planning Committee. This group of members is partnering with us to ensure our annual convening is substantive, relevant, and inclusive.
- Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Women's Giving Circle of Howard County
- Dan Flynn, Community Foundation of Howard County
- Kenitra Kengne Fokwa, Horizon Foundation
- Martina Martin, United Way of Central Maryland