Dear PGGNE colleagues and friends,

With my term as President drawing to a close, I want to take a moment to look back on our year together.

Serving as PGGNE President has been a privilege, and a highlight of my professional career. Over this past year, I’ve been continually reminded of how generous, thoughtful, and collaborative this community is. In the face of a rapidly evolving landscape in our field, the opportunity to learn from you, problem-solve together, and celebrate our shared successes has been both grounding and energizing.

We’ve accomplished a great deal together, from strong programming and lively roundtables, to a wonderful annual conference, and none of it would have been possible without your engagement and support. Thank you for all you do for your institutions, your donors, and for PGGNE.

I’m delighted that Michelle Rhodes will be stepping in as our next President. She brings outstanding experience, insight, and warmth to the role, and I’m confident that PGGNE will continue to thrive under her leadership in partnership with the Executive Board. I hope you all have a wonderful summer, and I look forward to seeing you in September.

With sincere gratitude, 

Don't Forget to Renew Your Membership for 2026-2027!

Having just completed a wonderful year of monthly meetings and inspiring speakers at our May Conference, now is the perfect time to renew your membership for the 2026-2027 season. As added incentive, when you renew your membership by June 30th, 2026, you’ll lock in the 2025-2026 rates for the coming year.

The upcoming year will be filled with valuable resources including:

Scholarships are also available for eligible participants. To learn more about them, visit us here.

PGGNE Member Spotlight:
Get to Know the People Behind PGGNE

Each month, we’re turning the spotlight on one of the dedicated board members helping guide PGGNE. These are the professionals working behind the scenes to shape our programs, strengthen our community, and support the future of planned giving in our region.

Today we are proud to introduce:

Q: What first drew you to the field of planned giving?
A: Well, I’m not technically in the field of planned giving! I’m more of an allied professional. But what first drew me to bequest administration was being able to partner with so many wonderful non-profit organizations. I feel very lucky to work alongside and support non-profits that advocate for change, raise awareness, and mobilize support for causes that change lives.

Q: What’s the most meaningful donor experience you’ve had?
A: I don’t really work directly with donors, but one of the most meaningful bequest administration cases that I have worked on involved representing a New England based charity who was supposed to receive a multimillion-dollar bequest. The donor’s brother appeared out of nowhere and claimed that the donor lacked the testamentary capacity necessary to sign a beneficiary designation form. There was no indication that this was true. After many months of back and forth, we were able to secure a settlement and our client walked away with one of the largest bequests in their history. Plus, we were able to honor the donor’s wishes in the process.

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to planned giving?
A: Hopefully this doesn't sound negative, but good people sometimes do bad things! Do not assume executors, trustees, financial custodians, and attorneys always have your organizations best interests in mind.

Q: What do you value most about being part of PGGNE?
A: The networking and support system. It is so wonderful to meet others who are struggling with the same types of bequest administration issues. Acting as a sound board for each other has been invaluable. And it just helps to know that you aren’t alone!

Q: If PGGNE had a mascot, what would it be—and why?
A: A butterfly! When you first join PGGNE, usually you are in the early stages of your career. You may not know anyone or know much about planned giving. But through the networking opportunities and educational monthly meetings, you learn a great deal from so many and eventually emerge with your own set of wings.

Introducing the 2026-2027 Executive Board

We are proud to announce the members of our 2026–2027 Executive Board. Please join us in congratulating and welcoming both our newly elected and returning board members. Each brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a shared commitment to advancing our mission and supporting our community.

Their leadership will help guide our strategic initiatives, foster professional development, and enhance collaboration across our organization in the year ahead. We are grateful for their willingness to serve and lead.

President

Michelle Rhodes

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

President-Elect

Daniel Parker

State Street Investment Management

Recording Secretary

Eleanor Evans

Hemenway & Barnes, LLP

Treasurer

Harry Helbock

Boston College

Membership Secretary

Betsy Townsend

Mass Audubon

Vice President for Programming

Anna Chiumenti

Director of Communications

Kara Morin

PG Calc

Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Jessica Brodie

Mass General Hospital

Officer at Large for Conference

Laura Alexander

TIAA Kaspick

Officer at Large for Communications

Alison Hay

Giving Docs

Officer at Large for Membership

Michelle Dannaher

Beth Israel Lahey Health

Officer at Large for Mentorship

Amy Schwader

Beth Israel Lahey Health

Officer at Large for Operations

Aaron McGarry

New England Conservatory of Music

Officer at Large for Programming

Mark Dantos

Mass General Hospital

Officer at Large for Programming

Melanie Souto

URI Foundation & Alumni Engagement

Officer at Large for Sponsorship

Elisa Pasche

The Boston Foundation

Job Postings Board is Open All Summer!

60 Hickory Drive, Suite 6100, Waltham, MA 02451
(781) 647-4343
www.pggne.org

Dear PGGNE colleagues and friends,

As this year’s monthly programming comes to a close, May offers us one more opportunity to come together at our All-Day Conference. It has been a privilege to serve as your PGGNE President, and I am thrilled with all we have accomplished together despite the budgetary constraints many of us continue to face. I am deeply grateful to our dedicated Executive Board and to the entire PGGNE community for your partnership and commitment throughout the year.

The Executive Board looks forward to seeing you at the All-Day Conference on Wednesday, May 6th. Details are included below, and if you have not yet registered, I encourage you to do so by the April 29th deadline.

We are excited to offer a conference that has something for everyone, including a morning keynote with Virtuous Software’s Nathan Chappell, a luncheon keynote with Chariot’s Mitch Stein, nine engaging general sessions, and ample opportunities to connect with fellow attendees and sponsors throughout the day. The full program schedule and registration link are available below.

I would like to offer a sincere thank-you to our 2025–2026 sponsors for their tremendous support this year. Among other contributions, their partnership has helped us offer robust programs, host our luncheon keynotes and roundtable sessions, and the upcoming post-conference reception. I hope you will take a moment at the conference to visit their tables in the Danielson Room, learn more about their work, and thank them for all they contribute to PGGNE.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to our speakers, who have shared their time, expertise, and insight with our community throughout the year. Finally, I am especially grateful to you, our members, for your engagement and commitment. It has been a privilege to serve in this role, and I am thankful for the opportunity to work alongside you. I look forward to seeing you on May 6th.

With appreciation,

Mark Your Calendars:

Planned Giving Fundamentals Course
Tuesday, May 5, 2026  |  Bentley University

The PGGNE Planned Giving Fundamentals Course is a one-day, in-person program designed for professionals who are new to planned giving or looking for a refresher. Led by Craig Wruck, Senior Advisor at PG Calc and author of Planned Giving in a Nutshell, this course provides a practical, conversational understanding of key gift planning concepts. Participants will learn the basics of charitable gift planning, including tax fundamentals, types of assets used for gifts, and both basic and advanced giving methods.

Emphasis is placed on building confidence to discuss these strategies with donors in clear, approachable language. Ideal for development professionals across roles—including major gift officers, annual fund staff, and support teams—this course equips attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively engage donors. All participants will receive a copy of Craig Wruck’s book. Register today! (Registration closes Tuesday, April 28th)

2026 All-Day Conference
Wednesday, May 6, 2026  |  Bentley University

Join us for the PGGNE 2026 All-Day Conference, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This annual event brings together gift planning professionals from across New England for a full day of learning, conversation, and connection. We’ve secured an outstanding lineup of expert speakers and thought-provoking sessions designed to inspire and inform your work.

Our speaker lineup brings together experts in charitable planning, fundraising, estate administration, donor engagement, and ethical giving, offering attendees practical insights and inspiration throughout the day. Register today! (Registration closes Wednesday, April 29th)

Keynote Presentations

Morning Keynote: Nathan Chappell (Virtuous Software)
“Curiosity Code: Building a Culture of Curiosity to Thrive in the AI Era”

Lunchtime Keynote: Mitch Stein (Chariot)
“Why DAFs need Gift Officers as Champions”

Sponsor Spotlight:

Job Postings:

Whether looking to make a change or looking to fill a position, make PGGNE your first stop to search/post new job openings! Visit the “Job Postings” section on our home page.

Volunteer for PGGNE:

PGGNE is an all-volunteer organization, and we need your talent and help! If you would like to get involved, please email us at info@pggne.org.

An Invitation from the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Massachusetts Chapter:

AI in Fundraising Bootcamp
UMass Boston Campus Center Ballroom
100 William T Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125
May 12, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Whether you’re new to generative AI or you’re a daily user looking to take it to the next level, this hands-on bootcamp will give you the tools, skills, and confidence to make AI work for your fundraising goals.

Throughout this one-day interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to refine your prompting skills and build a custom GPT for your shop, and you’ll build a library of real-world examples for leveraging AI for frontline fundraising, prospect research, and annual giving. Click here to learn more. (Registration closes Monday, May 4th at 8:00 AM)

60 Hickory Drive, Suite 6100, Waltham, MA 02451
(781) 647-4343
www.pggne.org

Dear PGGNE colleagues and friends,

Happy April!

We have a full and exciting close to the program year ahead, and I’m pleased to share a few highlights:

Our Next In-Person Meeting:
April 9, 2026

When: Thursday, April 9, 2026, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: Bentley University
    The Conference Center, LaCava Building
    175 Forest Street, Waltham, MA 02452

We look forward to seeing you all. Register today!

Online registration is available until: Thursday, April 2, 2026 

Agenda

10:00 - 11:00 AM - Strategic Question Roundtables
Join colleagues who share your interest in discussing the following strategic questions:

Question 1: The Role of Planned Giving in Campaigns
Question 2: Making the Case for Planned Giving to Leadership
Question 3: Using Data to Improve PG Outreach
Question 4: Developing PG Partnerships with Frontline Fundraisers
Question 5: Stewarding Your Legacy Society
Question 6: Planned Giving and Non-Cash Assets
Question 7: PG Strategies for Organizations Facing Financial Challenges and/or Leadership Transition
Affinity Group: Bequest Administration Cohort

11:00 - 12:00 PM - Basics Session
Donor Surveys – Maximizing Impact While Minimizing Costs
Aaron McGarry, New England Conservatory; Rosetta Cannizzaro & Ken Dolbashian, Boston Children's Hospital

Think surveys are only for big teams with big budgets? Think again.

Discover how to create and run your own survey - simple tools, smart questions, and strategies that work for any size shop. Get the insights you need without the overwhelm.

In this session you will learn:

11:00 - 12:00 PM - Advanced Session
The Readiness Role of the Modern Trustee
Tim Borchers, JD, Estate Planning Law Specialist, CTFA, AEP, MCIT & Paula Nolan, Northeast Private Trustees

Trustees smooth the transition from living with assets to inheriting wealth. Trustees provide guidance and discipline to wealth management and collaborate to help beneficiaries flourish according to trust grantors' design. The modern trustee is more ready than ever to step into these roles, hence the concept of "readiness."

In this session we will discuss:

12:00 - 2:00 PM - Luncheon with Keynote
How the Tax Code Made an American Aristocracy
Ray D. Madoff, Boston College Law School

Amid conflicting narratives about the drivers of wealth and inequality in the United States, one constant hovers in the background: the US tax code. No political force has been more consequential—or more utterly opaque—than the 7,000-page document that details who pays what in American society and government. Most of us have a sense that it’s an unfair system. But does anyone know exactly how it’s unfair?

In this session you will learn:

PGGNE Member Spotlight:
Get to Know the People Behind PGGNE

Each month, we’re turning the spotlight on one of the dedicated board members helping guide PGGNE. These are the professionals working behind the scenes to shape our programs, strengthen our community, and support the future of planned giving in our region. Today we are proud to introduce:

Q: What first drew you to the field of planned giving?
A: I was drawn to planned giving because of my passion to form meaningful relationships with others and make a positive difference in the advance of healthcare. In my previous work in media sales, I loved getting to know people and understanding what mattered to them. Planned giving takes that a step further by opening the door for deeper conversations about values, legacy, and the kind of impact someone wants to have. I enjoy partnering with donors to help them align what matters most to them with the difference they want to make. There’s something pretty special about knowing what is important to someone can live on through their philanthropy.

Q: What’s the most meaningful donor experience you’ve had?
A: There have been many meaningful moments, but what stands out most is the depth of relationships, and the stories donors share about the impact they want to have with an organization they care so deeply about. One that stays with me is a retired physician who loved the hospital and believed wholeheartedly in its future. We met several times just to connect, he wanted updates, and I loved hearing his stories. While we touched on philanthropy, he wasn’t ready to discuss impact yet, which reminded me how important it is to let these conversations unfold on the donor’s timeline. Then one day, he and his wife shared that they wanted to make a $1 million bequest to support the hospital’s future. What made it so inspiring wasn’t just the gift itself, it was the relationship behind it, the trust we’d built, and the knowledge that their generosity would help ensure the hospital continues making a difference for generations to come.

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to planned giving?
A: For someone new to planned giving, my advice is to be curious, ask questions, and really listen. PGGNE has been an incredible community, full of people generous with their experience, guidance, and advice.

Q: What do you value most about being part of PGGNE?
A: What I value most about being part of PGGNE is the strength of its community. This network of thoughtful, collaborative, and welcoming professionals brings together gift planning experts at every stage of their careers from those just starting out to those with years of experience and fosters an environment where everyone is eager to learn from one another. There is a genuine spirit of generosity in how members share their knowledge and support each other’s growth. For a volunteer-led organization, the level of engagement and commitment is truly remarkable.

Q: If PGGNE had a mascot, what would it be—and why?
A: PGGNE’s mascot could be a sea turtle. Sea turtles are known for their longevity, steady navigation, and instinct to return often traveling vast distances while remaining connected to where they began. In fact, they return to the very same beach where they were born, sometimes decades later, a powerful symbol of continuity and legacy. They represent patience, commitment, and the idea of a lasting journey over time. Like gift planning, their path isn’t rushed; it’s thoughtful, intentional, and focused on long-term impact, embodying connection, legacy, and the enduring nature of this work.

Sponsor Spotlight:

Save these Dates:

May 5, 2026
PGGNE PG Fundamentals Course

The PGGNE Planned Giving Fundamentals Course is a one-day, in-person program designed for professionals who are new to planned giving or looking for a refresher. Led by Craig Wruck, Senior Advisor at PG Calc and author of Planned Giving in a Nutshell, this course provides a practical, conversational understanding of key gift planning concepts. Participants will learn the basics of charitable gift planning, including tax fundamentals, types of assets used for gifts, and both basic and advanced giving methods.

Emphasis is placed on building confidence to discuss these strategies with donors in clear, approachable language. Ideal for development professionals across roles—including major gift officers, annual fund staff, and support teams—this course equips attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively engage donors. All participants will receive a copy of Craig Wruck’s book. Register today!

May 6, 2026
PGGNE 2026 All-Day Conference

If you’re serious about growing your planned giving program, this is where you need to be. Join PGGNE for a high-impact, one-day conference packed with the strategies, insights, and connections that drive real results.

Headline Keynote: “Why DAFs need Gift Officers as Champions”
Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy, Chariot

Morning Keynote: “Curiosity Code: Building a Culture of Curiosity to Thrive in the AI Era”
Nathan Chappell, Chief AI Officer, Virtuous

What you’ll gain at the conference:

From powerful keynote sessions to tactical breakouts, every part of this conference is designed to help you work smarter, raise more, and stay ahead. Seats are limited—and this event fills quickly. Register now and position yourself (and your program) for a stronger year ahead.

Job Postings:

Whether looking to make a change or looking to fill a position, make PGGNE your first stop to search/post new job openings! Visit the “Job Postings” section on our home page.

Volunteer for PGGNE:

PGGNE is an all-volunteer organization, and we need your talent and help! If you would like to get involved, please email us at info@pggne.org.

Call for Candid Photos:

Do you have a good eye for people and composition? We are always looking for new PGGNE community pictures, and we can all be great photographers with a smartphone. Let us know if you want to help and feel free to send your pictures directly to us at info@pggne.org.

Support PGGNE's Mission:

We invite you to join us in sustaining the mission of the Planned Giving Group of New England — to advance the field of charitable gift planning and strengthen the community of professionals who make it possible.

Your tax-deductible contribution makes this work possible. It helps us:

Your support directly fuels PGGNE’s work to inspire, educate, and connect our community.

👉 Make your gift today

Together, we can sustain a vibrant, inclusive community of professionals shaping the future of philanthropy.

60 Hickory Drive, Suite 6100, Waltham, MA 02451
(781) 647-4343
www.pggne.org

Dear PGGNE colleagues and friends,

After digging out from the recent storm, and what has felt like an endless stretch of snow and cold, I know many of us are more than ready to retire our shovels, say goodbye to blizzards, and finally see the first real signs of spring. Even with snowbanks still piled high, the light is lingering a bit longer each day, and the promise of sunshine and warmer weather is starting to feel within reach.

That sense of looking ahead resonates with our work in planned giving. We spend our days looking beyond the immediate horizon, helping donors shape their legacies and advancing our institutions’ missions while positioning them for lasting success. I’m continually grateful for how this community does that work together: sharing knowledge, comparing notes, and offering one another support and perspective. Whether you’re new to the field or have worked in it for some time, your resilience, curiosity, and generosity are what keep PGGNE vibrant.

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes a fresh season of connection, learning, and collaboration within the planned giving community. We’d love for you to become a PGGNE member or renew your membership and join your colleagues as we warm things up together in the coming weeks. Membership keeps you connected to peers across New England, timely programming, and conversations that make this work both more effective and more enjoyable.

Some of the many benefits include:

Most importantly, membership means being part of a community that shows up for one another, sharing ideas, challenges, and best practices along the way. I hope you will join us for another year of learning, connection, and collaboration. Renew today and be part of what’s ahead this spring.

I continue to be inspired by our members, and the Board is committed to keeping PGGNE a place where you can learn, share, and feel supported in your work. I look forward to seeing many of you at upcoming programs and hearing your ideas for how we can continue to strengthen this community together.

Warmly,

Jane Verrill
PGGNE President

Our Next In-Person Meeting:
March 12, 2026

When: Thursday, March 12, 2026, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: Bentley University
    The Conference Center, LaCava Building
    175 Forest Street, Waltham, MA 02452

We look forward to seeing you all. Register today!

Online registration is available until: Thursday, March 5, 2026 

Agenda

10:00 - 11:00 AM - Early Bird Chat
For monthly meetings without scheduled roundtables, we welcome you to enjoy coffee and informal conversation with fellow members from 10:00-11:00 AM, before our main programming starts.

11:00 - 12:00 PM - Basics Session
The Power of Touch(es): Best Practices in Planned Giving Stewardship
Sandra Anthoine, Salve Regina University & Mary Richardson, TIAA Kaspick

Stewardship is essential to realizing planned gifts—but how can we steward planned giving donors efficiently while still offering authentic, personal touches? Balancing the pursuit of new planned gifts with long-term donor relationship building often feels like a juggling act. This interactive session will explore a range of practical stewardship strategies and ideas across a breadth of organizations. Learn how meaningful, manageable touches can strengthen donor relationships and may help take your planned giving program to the next level.

In this session you will learn:

11:00 - 12:00 PM - Advanced Session
DAFs: Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Carlos S. Byrne, CAP®, BNY Wealth

This session offers a comprehensive overview of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) for fundraisers, covering DAF basics, industry trends, advanced donor strategies, and advice for nonprofits.

In this session you will:

12:00 - 2:00 PM - Luncheon with Keynote
2026 Estate Planning Hot Topics
Aimee F. Bryant, JD & Suma V. Nair, JD, Fiduciary Trust Company

Suma and Aimee will discuss a variety of timely topics at the forefront of estate planners’ and clients’ minds, driven by the current political landscape and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

In this session, we will discuss:

PGGNE Member Spotlight:
Get to Know the People Behind PGGNE

Each month, we’re turning the spotlight on one of the dedicated board members helping guide PGGNE. These are the professionals working behind the scenes to shape our programs, strengthen our community, and support the future of planned giving in our region. Today we are proud to introduce:

Q: What first drew you to the field of planned giving?
A: I was drawn to planned giving because I’ve always thrived on building deep, long-term relationships. I quickly realized that sustaining a university’s mission depends as much on trust and genuine connection as it does on dollars raised. Planned giving sits at that intersection: it allows me to spend time with donors, understand what matters most to them, and structured gifts that align their personal values and financial goals with the institution’s future. That blend of relationship-building and lasting impact is what attracted me to this field, and what keeps me in it.

Q: What’s the most meaningful donor experience you’ve had?
A: What’s been most meaningful to me isn’t a single gift or moment, but the depth of certain long-term relationships. One that stands out is with a donor in Los Angeles whom I’ve worked with for many years. Our conversations began around philanthropy and complex gift structures, but over time they’ve evolved into wide-ranging discussions about life, love, purpose, and happiness. It’s a reminder that when we do this work well, we’re not just closing gifts, we’re walking alongside people as they think about their legacy and what matters most to them. Those relationships, more than any single gift, are what stay with me and what makes this work so rewarding.

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to planned giving?
A: Listen more than you speak. There is an incredible amount to learn, from donors, colleagues, and your professional network, about the full range of planned giving tools and strategies, tax and legal considerations, family dynamics, and human behavior. If you approach each conversation with curiosity and humility, and really absorb what others share, you’ll develop both your technical expertise and your judgment much more quickly.

Q: What do you value most about being part of PGGNE?
A: The community. PGGNE is full of people who are deeply committed to both planned giving and each other’s growth. For a volunteer-driven organization, the level of engagement, accountability, and dedication is extraordinary. I value the generosity with which members share their expertise, the genuine relationships that form, and the sense that together we’re strengthening the profession in New England.

Q: If PGGNE had a mascot, what would it be—and why?
A: A pine tree. I’m from Maine, where the pine is central to our identity. It’s tough, deeply rooted, and manages to thrive on the rocky New England coastline. To me, that mirrors our work in planned giving: steady, resilient, and quietly powerful. Like an evergreen, our work is about endurance, creating gifts that outlast any single season and continue to strengthen our institutions and sustain our missions year after year.

Mark Your Calendars:

Monthly Meetings:
March 12, 2026
April 9, 2026

Save these Dates:

May 5, 2026
PGGNE PG Fundamentals Course

The PGGNE Planned Giving Fundamentals Course is designed for professionals seeking a comprehensive introduction to planned giving or a refresher on key strategies. This one-day program emphasizes a practical understanding of technical concepts, equipping attendees with the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations with donors and prospects. Whether you are new to the field or looking to refine your approach, this course provides the foundational knowledge necessary for success.

Thanks so much to State Street Investment Management for being the Diamond Sponsor of our Planned Giving Fundamentals Course.

May 6, 2026
PGGNE 2026 All-Day Conference

Join us for the PGGNE 2026 All-Day Conference on May 6, 2026, where we are curating an outstanding lineup of speakers, sessions, and networking opportunities. This premier event will bring together planned giving professionals for a full day of learning, discussion, and collaboration. Stay tuned for the official agenda and speaker announcements—details will be released soon!

Thanks so much to Hemenway & Barnes for being the Diamond Sponsor of our All-Day Conference.

Job Postings:

Whether looking to make a change or looking to fill a position, make PGGNE your first stop to search/post new job openings! Visit the “Job Postings” section on our home page.

Volunteer for PGGNE:

PGGNE is an all-volunteer organization, and we need your talent and help! If you would like to get involved, please email us at info@pggne.org.

Support PGGNE's Mission:

We invite you to join us in sustaining the mission of the Planned Giving Group of New England — to advance the field of charitable gift planning and strengthen the community of professionals who make it possible.

Your tax-deductible contribution makes this work possible. It helps us:

Your support directly fuels PGGNE’s work to inspire, educate, and connect our community.

👉 Make your gift today

Together, we can sustain a vibrant, inclusive community of professionals shaping the future of philanthropy.

60 Hickory Drive, Suite 6100, Waltham, MA 02451
(781) 647-4343
www.pggne.org

Dear PGGNE colleagues and friends,

We hope you all enjoyed our first virtual session in January. If you were not able to attend, the recording is available at no cost to PGGNE members for the remainder of the program year through our on-demand webinar library.

We also hope you will join us for our next webinar on Thursday, February 12, featuring Tamisha Keith, Associate Director of Gift Planning at Duke University, presenting “Legacy, Wealth, and Impact: Strengthening Planned Giving Engagement with African American Donors.” While the session itself is virtual, we invite you to join us for in-person regional roundtables held in conjunction with the webinar. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow PGGNE members before watching the presentation live at one of our host sites. Register today!

Regional Roundtable Locations:

Please save the dates for our final two in‑person monthly meetings: Thursday, March 12, and Thursday, April 9. For monthly meetings without scheduled roundtables, don’t forget about our Early Bird Chats. You are invited to join fellow members in EDR for coffee and informal conversation from 10 to 11 AM, before our main program begins.

Lastly, planning is underway for our May all-day conference. We are excited to bring you dynamic programming, and we welcome your ideas. If you have suggestions for a general session speaker for our team to consider, please complete our Call for Presentations form.

If you haven’t already, please renew your membership or join today!

Thank you for your continued support of PGGNE and for making this community such a valuable part of your professional development. I look forward to connecting with many of you at PGGNE in the months ahead.

Warmly,

Our Next Meeting:
February 12, 2026

When: Thursday, February 12, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM
Where: Virtual (Zoom)
Online registration is available until: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Register today!

While the session is virtual, we hope you will join us for optional in-person regional roundtables for PGGNE members in conjunction with the webinar. This is a fabulous opportunity to connect with members who work and live in your neighborhood.

Regional Roundtable Locations:

In-Person/Regional Roundtable Registration Ends: Monday, February 9, 2026

Agenda

11:15 - 12:00 PM
In-Person Regional Roundtables
Gather and network with fellow members before watching the presentation live.

12:00 - 1:15 PM
Legacy, Wealth, and Impact: Strengthening Planned Giving Engagement with African American Donors
Tamisha Keith, JD, CAP®, Associate Director of Gift Planning, Duke University

This session provides planned giving professionals with a culturally informed framework for engaging African American donors in legacy planning. Participants will learn how longstanding traditions of generosity, family-based philanthropy, and community-focused giving align naturally with planned giving vehicles. The presentation will cover tax-efficient strategies, tools for maximizing gifts to both family and charity, and the role of planned giving in sustaining institutions that advance equity and opportunity. Practical guidance will be offered for expanding donor pipelines, fostering trust, and supporting donors in shaping enduring legacies for future generations.

In this session, we will:

PGGNE Member Spotlight:
Get to Know the People Behind PGGNE

Each month, we’re turning the spotlight on one of the dedicated board members helping guide PGGNE. These are the professionals working behind the scenes to shape our programs, strengthen our community, and support the future of planned giving in our region. Today we are proud to introduce:

Q: What first drew you to the field of planned giving?
A: Many years ago, I worked for a human-rights organization in Washington, DC where I wore many fundraising hats. As I established their first planned giving program, I experienced the enjoyment of deep conversations with donors and the fact that my knowledge was valuable to helping them meet their financial goals while also helping the organization. After that, I always regarded the importance of planned giving and eventually was able to do it full time.

Q: What’s the most meaningful donor experience you’ve had?
A: One that quickly comes to mind is a donor who I got to know for a number of years. I could tell he was becoming more forgetful so when he said that he wanted to discuss a scholarship in his estate, I asked if we could include a family member. His daughter became part of the conversation and they decided to establish the scholarship in his lifetime using QCDs instead of through his estate. Following his request to transfer the final balance of the QCD, but before we had received it, the donor passed away. His daughter told me that on his deathbed, he was happy to know that this family scholarship would be created, and she and her family were grateful for this.

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to planned giving?
A: Don't be afraid to ask for advice and help. This is a community that is willing to share knowledge.

Q: What do you value most about being part of PGGNE?
A: Access to education and building a strong, regional network of colleagues. When I was in DC, I attended their regional meetings and conferences. I greatly appreciate that New England has one of the strongest regional programs in the country.

Q: If PGGNE had a mascot, what would it be—and why?
A: I like alliteration so “The PGGNE Pigeon”. Now stay with me for a moment. Pigeons are quite intelligent with good memory, messengers of important information, heroic (received medals during WWII for saving thousands of lives), social and care for others. They also come in many shapes and sizes, which we usually don’t realize. Doesn’t that sound like a gift planning officer to you? And despite stereotypes, pigeons are clean and preen frequently.

Mark Your Calendars:

Monthly Meetings:
February 12, 2026 [VIRTUAL]
March 12, 2026
April 9, 2026

Save these Dates:

May 5, 2026
PGGNE PG Fundamentals Course

May 6, 2026
PGGNE 2026 All-Day Conference

Mentoring Program:
Half-Year Matches and Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

We’re excited to announce that half-year mentorship matches are complete. Mentorship is a cornerstone of PGGNE, and we are grateful to everyone who has contributed to making this year’s program a success.

Looking ahead, if you’re interested in applying as a mentor or mentee for the 2026–2027 program year, or if you’d like to participate in our monthly mentoring Zoom calls where current participants share their insights and experiences, please contact Amy Schwader at aschwader@bwh.harvard.edu.

Renew Your 2025-2026 Membership Today!

If you haven’t already, renew or join today! We have a great lineup of topics and speakers planned for this spring, as well as our Fundamentals class on May 5th and all-day conference on May 6th. There are a variety of membership levels, so you are sure to find one that fits your needs. Scholarships are also available, apply here. Please join today!

Remember: Be a PGGNE advocate!

PGGNE is an all-volunteer organization, and we need your talent and help! If you would like to get involved, please email us at info@pggne.org.

Being a PGGNE advocate means actively sharing the value of membership and encouraging others to join. Posting about your experiences on LinkedIn and other social networks is a great way to showcase the benefits of being part of this vibrant community. Highlight the networking opportunities, professional development, and meaningful discussions that make PGGNE special.

Invite colleagues and peers directly, whether through a quick email, a LinkedIn message, or a personal conversation. When attending meetings or events, share key takeaways and insights to spark interest. A short testimonial or a LinkedIn article about how PGGNE has helped your career can also be impactful. Promoting upcoming meetings on social platforms helps draw in new faces who may not yet realize the value of membership.

Engaging with new and prospective members, making introductions, and offering guidance can strengthen the sense of community and ensure they see the benefits firsthand. By actively spreading the word and advocating for PGGNE, you contribute to its growth and reinforce its importance in the planned giving field. Thank you for your contribution.

60 Hickory Drive, Suite 6100, Waltham, MA 02451
(781) 647-4343
www.pggne.org

Dear PGGNE colleagues and friends,

Happy New Year and warm wishes for a wonderful 2026! I hope the holiday season brought you time for rest and renewal, and that you are feeling energized for the year ahead. On behalf of the Executive Board, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who have so generously made a gift to PGGNE – we deeply appreciate your support.

We are delighted to launch our 2026 programming on Thursday, January 8, with a virtual meeting featuring Tiffany House, a consultant with the Gift Planning Institute, on the topic “Cash is for Amateurs.” We hope you will join us for this informative session.

Thank you for making PGGNE a part of your professional journey and for your continued support of an organization that gives so much back to its members.

With best wishes,

P.S. As we begin a new year, we hope you’ll take a moment to watch our brief New Year video below. Thank you for being part of the PGGNE community.

Our Next Meeting:
January 8, 2026