Conversations on Experiences in Fundraising
Join us for an engaging webinar featuring two inspiring fundraising professionals as they share their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs in the nonprofit world. Gain valuable insights, actionable tips, and real-world perspectives to elevate your own fundraising efforts. Among the points to be covered:
  • Navigating the ever-changing world of nonprofit fundraising
  • Turning challenges into opportunities for growth
  • Lessons from real-world fundraising successes and setbacks
  • The power of relationship-building and storytelling in fundraising
  • Engaging donors and sustaining long-term support
  • Staying motivated and resilient in the face of obstacles
  • Innovative fundraising approaches making an impact today
  • Balancing mission-driven work with financial sustainability

Let’s connect, learn, and grow together as we build stronger communities through fundraising!

April 2, 2025
9am PST | 12pm CST | 1pm EST

PANELIST LEADERS

Yanira Amadeo, Executive Director of Development, University of Connecticut, NY | NJ | CT
Yanira is a tri-state, institutional advancement leader, and frontline fundraiser with over 20 years of experience in higher education philanthropy. She is dedicated to promoting a culture of philanthropy through major and individual gift fundraising, donor pipeline development, nonprofit strategic planning, board and volunteer engagement, and innovative communications strategies within the higher education sector. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Family Science and Human Development at Montclair State University, Yanira's research focuses on understanding philanthropic and wealth generating influences on diverse students and families. Her academic work complements her professional commitment to advancing equity and opportunity in education through strategic fundraising and donor engagement. Yanira holds a Master's Degree in Nonprofit and Fundraising Management from Columbia University and is an alumna of La Vanguardia Academy, the premier fundraising training program by Somos El Poder. Her expertise and entrepreneurial approach make her a trusted leader in higher education development and community impact.
Celeste Guzmán Mendoza, Ph.D., MFA, Assistant Vice President of Alumni Relations and Development at Trinity University, San Antonio, TX.
Celeste is a published poet, essayist, performer, and playwright. In addition to being a writer, Mendoza is a professional fundraiser and nonprofit leader with nearly 30 years of experience in individual donor cultivation, annual giving, memberships and alumni relations, marketing and communications, as well as foundation and corporate relations. She holds a doctoral degree in Education Leadership and Policy, and an MFA in Poetry; her dissertation focused on Latino philanthropy at higher education institutions in the U.S. She was a co-founder and co-director of CantoMundo, a workshop for Latina/o poets, a fellow of Hedgebrook, a retreat for women writers, and Macondo, a community of writers who advance social justice