Welcome!
In the heart of our mission-driven community, the 20th Annual Nonprofit Governance Symposium promises to be a transformative and inspirational experience for all those committed to the betterment of San Diego. This year’s theme, “Educating the Mind, Engaging the Body, and Inspiring the Soul of Board Governance,” reflects our dedication to innovative and emergent nonprofit leadership and governance practice. This year, what is meant by “governance” is expanded to include how we care for ourselves and for one another as we seek to meet the challenges of this critical moment.
At NPI, we recognize the practice of governance goes beyond board meetings and duties; it’s about creating a powerful synergy between the intellectual, embodied, and spiritual aspects of nonprofit work. By uniting these elements, we offer an invitation and a call for nonprofit organizations and leaders to aspire for greater heights of effectiveness and more purposeful depth of impact.
The theme of the symposium also marks an introduction to what NPI calls Embodied Leadership for Liberative Artistry (ELLA). Both an initiative and an expansion of our mission, the aim of ELLA is to create the conditions for individuals to transform their orientation to leadership through liberated artistic expression and restorative reflective practices. ELLA invites us to feel, express, create, and mobilize nonprofit action as a more authentic, evocative, and resonant ‘art form’.
As we embark on this journey of mind, body and soul, let us—together—embrace this opportunity to forge new leadership pathways of knowing, feeling, and being. May we compassionately and courageously traverse what is within us to more substantively and sustainably meet the urgent needs of all of us—now.
Once again, welcome!
Soul Mind Body
SESSION THEMES
Offerings at this year’s symposium are oriented around three themes. Breakout sessions are an invitation for individuals to transform their orientation of leadership and board service.
EDUCATING THE MIND :
Sessions focused on the practical and technical elements of nonprofit governance. Topics attend to the legal, financial, equity, and fundraising competence needed in our work.
ENGAGING THE BODY :
An opportunity to center learning through embodiment. It’s the pause for breath, the noticing of that feeling, the recovery from burnout—the practice of being present in all of our senses, right here, right now.
INSPIRING THE SOUL :
Practices that invite the internal personal work linked to the practical application of our efforts. Soul centers our purpose and meaning. It allows us to be more reflective and effective in our efforts to meet this moment.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The University of San Diego acknowledges that the land on which the university community gathers is the traditional and unceded territory of the Kumeyaay Nation. The University wants to pay respect to the citizens of the Kumeyaay Nation, both past and present, and their continuing relationship to their ancestral lands.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024
MOTHER ROSALIE HILL HALL (MRH)
WARREN AUDITORIUM, MRH 116
9:00am 11:30am 11:45am 12:15pm 1:15pm 2:30pm 2:45pm 4:00pm
Welcome and Overview of the Day: Inspiring Board Governance
Dr. Laura Deitrick, Interim Co-Executive Director, The Nonprofit Institute
Dr. Zachary Green, Interim Co-Executive Director, The Nonprofit Institute
Land Acknowledgement
Elijah Bonde (Te-Moak Tribe), Associate Superintendent, Diocese of San Diego Office for Schools
Music Performances
Bettina Yang Jiang, Harpist
Ihan Anita Ip, PhD Candidate, Lecturer, Leadership Coach, University of San Diego
Keynote Reflection: Love and Governance
Dr. Lamont Jackson, Superintendent, San Diego Unified School District
Spoken Word Presentation
Vivian Moon aka Causmosis, Artist
The Embodiment of Governance
Dr. Novien Yarber, Director of Leadership, Philanthropy & Social Impact, The Nonprofit Institute
Neville Billimoria, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Community Relations, Mission Fed
Ihan Anita Ip, PhD Candidate, Lecturer, Leadership Coach, University of San Diego
Break
Presentation of Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance and TRUST Award for Excellence in Philanthropy
Stephen Chin, Manager, Account Management & Community Relations, Sharp HealthCare and Chair, The Nonprofit Institute Advisory Board
WEST PLAZA
Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance Luncheon
MRH CLASSROOMS
Breakout Session One
Break
Breakout Session Two
WEST PLAZA
Networking Reception, Sponsored by California Bank and Trust
Eric Foster, Guitarist
Board Governance
Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance
Each year, The Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego recognizes organizations that demonstrate what strong nonprofit governance looks like through the USD Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance. The purpose of the award is to recognize, celebrate and promote good governance across the San Diego region’s nonprofit sector.
The name for the award Kaleidoscope reflects the idea that nonprofit governance is both intricate and multifaceted, best viewed through three lenses: fiduciary, strategic and generative. Good boards are a group of dedicated volunteers who understand which lens to apply at any given time in order to provide leadership that enhances an organization’s ability to fulfill its mission.
Congratulations to the 2024 Kaleidoscope Award Winner!
Board Chairs:
Roxanne Kymaani
Vanessa Ruiz
Co-Executive Directors: Elly
Brown
Sona Desai
Mission
Cultivating a healthy, sustainable, and just food system in San Diego County
Vision
We envision vibrant community food systems rooted in justice and sustainability, where everyone has equitable opportunity to produce, distribute, prepare, serve, and eat nutritional and culturally appropriate food.
In our vision, producers and food workers are treated fairly, sustainable and regenerative practices are prioritized, people are engaged, communities are empowered, and farms, fisheries, and food businesses are thriving and contributing to local economies.
Inaugural TRUST Award
for Excellence in Philanthropy for Governance Practices, Social Equity and Community Impact
We are pleased to announce this inaugural award to spotlight the work of foundation boards that align their mission with community needs, responsibly manage resources, uphold transparency, and contribute to long-term positive impacts in the areas they aim to address.
While the structure and mission may differ from that of a public charity, the practice of governance in public and private foundations is important to the health and well-being of the nonprofit sector and the communities served.
Board Chair: Killu Sanborn
Executive Director: Sarah Lyman
Previous Kaleidoscope Award Winners
Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego
Balboa Park Conservancy
Border Angels
Casa de Amparo
Chicano Federation of San Diego, Inc.
Francis Parker School
Episcopal Community Services
Girl Scouts San Diego
Healing Wave Aquatics
Home of Guiding Hands
Jewish Family Service of San Diego
Just In Time for Foster Youth
Karen Organization of San Diego
Kids Included Together
Mama’s Kitchen
Museum of Us
North County Lifeline
Ocean Discovery Institute
Plant With Purpose
San Diego Hospice and Palliative Care
San Diego Jewish Academy
San Diego Jewish Community Foundation
San Diego Workforce Partnership
San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory
San Diego Zoo Global
United Through Reading
Voices for Children
Volunteers of America of Southwest California
Breakout Session One
1:15-2:30pm
Full session descriptions and speaker bios available on the website and in the event app.
Warren Auditorium
Room 116
Room 127
Room 131
SESSION THEMES: MIND BODY SOUL
Good Governance: Lessons and Learning from Two Award Winning Boards
Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance and TRUST Award for Excellence in Philanthropy Winners
Moderators: Dominic Porter, Executive Director, RISE San Diego and Mary Schulman, The Alan and Mary Schulman Family Foundation
This session features two exemplary and unique approaches to governance offered by our 2024 Kaleidoscope Award and TRUST Award winners. In governing organizations with missions for social good, this year’s Kaleidoscope Awardees talk about how they approached the fundamental questions of how to best govern their organizations to extend their missions for greater impact and transformational change.
Celebrating Our Stories: A Step Towards Healing
Mariano Diaz, Lead Partner, RM Consulting Group; Community Scholar for Equity, The Nonprofit Institute
Ellen Nash, Chair, BAPAC San Diego; Community Scholar for Equity, The Nonprofit Institute
Samuel Tsoi, Horizon Scholar, University of San Diego; Community Scholar for Equity, The Nonprofit Institute
Loretta Turner, Leadership Coach & Well-being Strategist, Do-Good Leadership Collective; Community Scholar for Equity, The Nonprofit Institute
An interactive session to explore the power of narrative. Led by The Nonprofit Institute’s Community Scholars for Equity, this session invites participants to receive and celebrate the unique stories of the diverse professionals who carry out critical nonprofit work in our region. This session will challenge the traditional models of “reporting impact,” and will center storytelling as a way to fully express who we are and why we do the work that we do. The power of celebrating our stories, and having our stories received, is a key step towards healing ourselves, which in turn, provides healing for the communities we care for.
Nonprofit Compliance: How to Avoid the Attention of Charity Regulators
May Harris, CEO and Managing Attorney, For Purpose Law Group
Adherence to legal compliance is the cornerstone of nonprofit operations and an organization’s health and longevity. Boards of directors play a pivotal role in this oversight, ensuring the organization’s compliance, alignment with its mission, and safeguarding against potential legal pitfalls. By nurturing a culture of compliance and implementing effective oversight mechanisms, nonprofit board members can uphold their legal obligations, enhance credibility, foster donor trust, and significantly advance their impact within the communities they serve. In this presentation, attorney and USD Alum, May L. Harris, Esq., MA, will explore the legal compliance requirements of all nonprofit charities in California, viewing compliance through the lens of proactive, intentional leadership.
Fundraising During Challenging Times: Developing a Partnership Between Board and Staff to Bring Your Fundraising to the Next Level
Sally Bixby, Team Leader, Philanthropy Studio
Over the last few years, fundraising has been nerve-racking for most organizations. Donors have been giving less because of their frustrations with inflation and worry about the economy. However, there are proven ways to weather the ups and downs of giving and ensure your donors stand by you. Central to this is a strong partnership between the board and staff. During this workshop, Sally will share strategies designed to meet everyone at their comfort level that stabilize and elevate fundraising. In this session, you will be provided with tools and learning opportunities including: tips to improve communication between board and staff; the effectiveness of donor stewardship and cultivation; and ways to develop a stronger culture of philanthropy.
Lean Impact for Nonprofits: Learnings from the Monarch School
Afira DeVries, President and Chief Executive Officer, Monarch School Project
KishaLynn Elliott, Chief Operating Officer, Monarch School Project
Does your nonprofit have an idea or program they want to scale but are unsure how to move forward? Lean Impact is a proven approach that employs thoughtful experimentation techniques to assess the viability of new projects in the realm of social innovation. In this interactive session, we will share how staff and board leaders of San Diego’s Monarch School Project effectively apply Lean Impact principles, including continuous improvement and iteration, to enhance their impact, overcome challenges, and drive innovation. Participants will gain valuable insights from a real-life case study, learning how to quickly develop and test small-scale solutions before allocating extensive resources.
Sabbaticals as a Governance Strategy
Janine Mason, Founder and Director, Fieldstone Leadership Network San Diego
Donald Stump, Retired CEO, Lifeline Community Services
In an era where organizations face unprecedented challenges and opportunities, including the need for healthy organizational cultures, board members and other leaders must explore innovative approaches to ensure long-term success of their nonprofit organization. Join us for an engaging session that examines sabbaticals as a cutting-edge and transformative board governance strategy. The presentation will explore the multifaceted benefits of sabbaticals and address the common fears that often hinder board members from adopting it as a strategic initiative. The session will include specific information on the Fieldstone Leadership Network’s Clare Rose Sabbatical program that is available to San Diego area nonprofits.
Future-Proofing the Board
Alana Bagby-Leonard, Learning and Talent Manager, San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG)
Join us for an engaging and actionable presentation on future-proofing nonprofit organizations. Led by seasoned leadership consultant Alana Bagby-Leonard, this dynamic session will explore vital strategies to navigate the ever-evolving landscape. Discover the keys to embedding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion principles, fostering a culture of belonging, and meeting the expectations of the future workforce. Learn how adaptive leadership and meaningful goal-setting can propel your organization forward, while also creating the time needed for effective implementation. Uncover ways to prevent burnout and prioritize employee well-being in an interactive and informative workshop. This session is designed to provide practical insights and strategies that can be immediately implemented within your organization. Walk away with a clear understanding of how to future-proof your nonprofit, ensuring sustained success and alignment with the changing needs of your community and stakeholders.
Notes
“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Reflections
“True mastery is not merely the execution of technique; it is the embodiment of practice, a seamless integration of skill and spirit, where every movement becomes a reflection of one’s inner journey.”
- Lee Jun-fan (or widely known as Bruce Lee)
Breakout Session Two
2:45-4:00pm
Full session descriptions and speaker bios available on the website and in the event app.
Warren Auditorium
Room 116
Room 127
What Boards Need to Know About Working with Foundations
Max Espinoza, Senior Program Officer, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
Sharyn Goodson, Vice President of Philanthropy, Leichtag Foundation
Dr. Emily Young, Vice President of Programs, The Conrad Prebys Foundation
SESSION THEMES: MIND BODY SOUL
Moderator: Jacob Wild Crea, Conflict Resolution Consultant, Casimir Collaborations
In the complex landscape of nonprofit funding, partnerships with foundations play a pivotal role. Yet, approaching foundations can be an intimidating and confusing process. This session aims to equip nonprofit board members with insights and strategies for engaging and collaborating with foundations. Participants will delve into the fundamental aspects of establishing, nurturing, and maximizing associations with foundations to secure sustainable support for their missions. Our expert panel will discuss the current philanthropic landscape, describe key trends in grantmaking, and share their tips for building partnerships.
In the Spirit of Leadership: Unveiling the Power of Who We Are
Loretta Turner, Leadership Coach & Well-being Strategist, Do-Good Leadership Collective; Community Scholar for Equity, The Nonprofit Institute
Vivian Moon aka Causmosis, Artist
Brenda Suarez, Horizon Scholar, University of San Diego; Liberation Agent & Keynote Speaker, Creator of the ‘Heal UP with B’ Movement
Moderator: Dr. Zachary Green, Co-Interim Executive Director, The Nonprofit Institute, USD
We firmly believe that impactful leadership transcends mere actions. Leadership is an authentic expression of who we are. In the midst of ongoing regional challenges, we extend a call to those who bravely embody leadership in its entirety—individuals who utilize their personal governance to bring their whole hearts, souls, and a commitment to healing into the realms of impact and resilience. Our presenters, each representing unique approaches to this work, will guide a session that underscores the profound connection between leadership, personal identity, and the requisite governance needed to amplify our collective voice.
Room 131
The Strategy Equation: Integrating Mind, Body, and Soul for Nonprofit Triumph
Dr. Lyn Corbett, President, The Pivotal Group Consultants, Inc.
Experience an inspiring and transformative journey as we delve into “The Strategy Equation,” a revolutionary governance approach that seamlessly integrates strategy into the Mind, Body, and Soul of nonprofit governance. Gain practical insights, connect with mission-driven peers, and leave empowered to elevate your nonprofit’s governance for lasting impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to redefine your approach to leadership and governance at this signature session.
Beyond Wellness: Cultivating a Thriving Culture
Nancy Maldonado, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Rady Children’s Hospital
Dr. Karen Briggs, Vice President for Human Resources and Workforce Development, Rady Children’s Hospital
Well-being goes beyond simply being in a state of good health or contentment and is more than merely the absence of illness or disease. It is a dynamic and thriving state in which individuals, communities, and organizations experience a high level of fulfillment, safety, and joy. This presentation will describe a multi-faceted approach encompassing multiple elements of well-being and illustrate how adopting a holistic approach can foster a culture of well-being, improve employee engagement, enhance belonging, and create thriving organizations that prioritizes the overall quality of life for our workforce.
The Role of Compassion in Board Governance
Angel Hu, Doctoral Graduate Fellow, The Nonprofit Institute, USD
Chris Onderdonk, Palliative Care Clinical Social Worker, UC San Diego Health
This session explores the science of compassion and its application in governance and leadership. After delving into the neurobiological foundations of compassion, participants will be guided through an experiential relational meditation. Join us for a unique blend of data-driven insights and contemplative practice to discover the secrets of compassionate leadership.
Chairing the Board
Stephen Chin, Manager, Account Management & Community Relations, Sharp HealthCare; Past Board Chair, Pacific Arts Movement
Dr. Jean Greaves, Co-founder, TalentSmartEQ; Chairperson, Survivors of Torture, International Steve Kappes, Board Chair, zero8hundred Ellen Waddell, Chief Executive Officer, Avila Fund; Immediate Past Board Chair, Museum of Us
This session will take an in-depth look at what it means to serve as a board chair, with practical tips and lessons learned from the field. It will be a moderated discussion of inspired, vital leadership practices from seasoned board chairs.
Fresh Voices on Boards
Kate Burnite, Development Operations & Stewardship Manager, The San Diego Museum of Art Jeanine Erikat, Programs Manager, Women’s Foundation California
Taylor Funderburk, Senior Associate, Kearns & West
Gener Abdon, Program Associate for California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, Center for Sustainable Energy Moderator: Dr. Rashad Burden
Join us for a panel discussion, where we spotlight the dynamic contributions of new board members shaping the future of community impact. Our panelists will share their experiences, challenges, and successes in navigating the world of nonprofit board governance. From leveraging technology to fostering inclusivity, these emerging leaders are redefining the role of board member and demonstrating the impact of diverse voices in decision-making processes. Gain valuable insights into how these fresh voices are influencing strategic planning, driving change, and contributing to the overall success of their organizations. Whether you’re a seasoned board member, aspiring leader, or simply curious about the evolving landscape of governance, this panel promises to inspire and enlighten as we explore the powerful intersection of innovation and leadership in the boardroom.
Chair Yoga and Mindfulness [STARTS AT 3:00PM]
Sofia Puerta Webber, Wellness Consultant and Creator
Chair yoga and mindfulness allows us to understand the causes and conditions of stress, burnout and suffering, to help us to relate wisely and more sincerely with our bodies and minds, in or own lives and in our work places.
Reflections
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
- Mahatma Gandhi
“While the body moves, the soul learns; embodied practice is the silent language of wisdom inscribed in the poetry of motion.”
- Gabrielle Roth
MA in Nonprofit Leadership and Management [On Campus] Practitioner Scholarships Available
MS in Nonprofit Leadership and Management [Fully Online Asynchronous]
PhD in Leadership Studies [On Campus]
Coming 2025: EdD in Organizational Leadership [Hybrid] For More Information: sandiego.edu/soles
Nonprofit Management Certificate [Online] For More Information: pce.sandiego.edu
sandiego.edu/nonprofit
Acknowledgements
We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped create this space to educate, engage, and inspire:
The Nonprofit Institute and Governance Symposium Team
NPI Advisory Board and Kaleidoscope Award Committee
Speakers, Facilitators, and Moderators
Musicians
Volunteers
Catering Services
Production Team
Thank You to Our
INSPIRATIONAL LEVEL
IN-KIND PARTNERS
MEDIA SPONSORS
Sponsors & Partners!
STRATEGIC LEVEL
Kaleidoscope Award Reception Sponsor
MOTIVATOR LEVEL
Kaleidoscope Award Breakfast Sponsor
Hill Hall (mrh)
SECOND FLOOR
