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Conference Testimonials
Up one levelPaul Shoemaker, SVP Seattle
I’ve been to every SVP conference since the first one in Pittsburgh in 2001. You might think it was “old hat” to me by now, but every time I go I meet new people, reconnect with others I know, and the mix each year makes it a new experience. It always energizes me.
Ken Deemer, LASVP
Some years ago, a group of us was considering forming an SVP affiliate in Los Angeles and I decided to attend the annual SVPI conference to see what it was all about. I was blown away by the amazing people I met - partners, speakers, philanthropists, other like minded souls out to make a difference. Many have become lasting friends. Their energy and passion were contagious and, indeed, we did form LASVP shortly thereafter. The conference gave me many great connections, ideas and resources and I return, whenever possible, for more.
Sean Stannard-Stockton, Tactical Philanthropy Blogger
Sean Stannard-Stockton, Tactical Philanthropy blogger, shares his take on the SVP Conference. Read why the conference is a best kept secret in philanthropy.
Andy Williamson, SVP Calgary
It's a time of year I anticipate: to reconnect with other partners, to pick up new ideas and trends, to discuss and debate, validate our work in Calgary, share my own perspective, meet some folks new to the network, and connect with key people in the philanthropic sector.
Alan Sorkin, San Diego SVP
The SVP Conference is the best place to learn about recruiting and retaining partners and running your SVP. Each year, SDSVP partners attend every session, debrief afterward and use the information as the foundation for the next year’s annual plan.
Carolyn and Scott Sherwood, SVP Seattle
Carolyn and Scott Sherwood learned to think BIG at the SVP Conference.
Bob Wood, Dallas SVP
A chance trip to the SVP Conference in Calgary in 2003, prompted more by the beauty of the location than the allure of the program, yielded substantial, long-term and long-lasting benefits to Dallas SVP. Our contingent, consisting of three persons, divided the program to attend all sessions, distilled useful insights, met helpful partners from other cities and brought back a detailed report, rich with ideas from across North America.
Sarah Bock, SVP Denver
The conference in Long Beach in 2010 was number seven for me. The amazing collection of presenters and partners from across the SVP network and the experience isn't the same twice. I just can't seem to get to the bottom of the deep pool of knowledge, inspiration and connections that SVP provides. When I return, I always have renewed energy and ideas that keep me going in my community work all year round.
Claudia Sangster, Harris myCFO, Founding Partner in LA
“I love what I do. I get to help my clients do really good things.” Claudia Sangster, Director of Philanthropy, Estate and Trust Services at Harris myCFO and founding Partner of LASVP, views the intersection between her work life and her volunteer life to be highly symbiotic. For more than a decade, Claudia has worked with Harris myCFO clients: “families who are looking for ways to engage with the nonprofit community and to bring the next generation into the process of giving as a family together and creating legacy.”
Mary Bright, Cleveland SVP
The SVP conference is my best chance all year to connect with people who share my passion for active philanthropy. Whether they are old friends or newcomers, the presenters and attendees from across the network inspire me with their stories and challenge me with their ideas.
