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Women Leading Philanthropy is focus of IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy national symposium

Nov. 13, 2013

Women's Philanthropy Institute to lead 2014 event in Chicago

INDIANAPOLIS -- Women’s leadership in philanthropy is more visible and widespread today than ever before, building on a long history of women as philanthropic leaders and activists for social and philanthropic causes.

Understanding the roles and the impact of women in philanthropy and elevating conversation about their leadership are the focus of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy's 2014 national symposium, titled #WomenLeading Philanthropy. The event will be held April 2 and 3 at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers, 301 E. North Water St., Chicago. The presenting sponsor is J.P. Morgan.

Led by the Women's Philanthropy Institute of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the event will bring together philanthropists, activists and scholars to facilitate a multi-faceted conversation about women, leadership, philanthropy and impact. Participants will learn from and exchange ideas with the leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs in the field of philanthropy who effect social change in their communities and across the globe.

“People participating in the symposium will engage with a diverse group of women and men who are asking the right questions, applying formulas that work and developing the leaders of today and tomorrow in the world of philanthropy," said Debra Mesch, director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute. “They will leave with new information, new connections, new insights and new energy to deepen awareness about women’s philanthropic leadership.

“Women are at the forefront of innovation and leadership in all aspects of philanthropy, from heading international relief organizations to guiding the charitable giving decisions in their households,” Mesch added. “As a nexus for better understanding the powerful role of women in philanthropy, WPI is pleased to bring people from a wide range of experiences and viewpoints together for dynamic discussions around these important issues.”

Conference topics will include:

The difference women’s leadership makes across sectors of society.
How women express philanthropic leadership in families.
Ways women are innovating and experimenting in philanthropy with funding communications, and investment.
How to tell the story of women’s philanthropic accomplishments for maximum impact.

Among the confirmed speakers are:

Barbara Lucas, regent, Mount Vernon Ladies Association.
Harriet Olson, general secretary and CEO, United Methodist Women.
Julie Robertson, national director, Go RED for Women, American Heart Association.
K. Sujata, CEO, Chicago Foundation for Women.
Trisa Thompson, vice president of corporate responsibility, Dell.
Glenn Tilton, vice chair, J.P. Morgan Chase.
Valerie Rockefeller Wayne, board member, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.

The two-day symposium includes panel discussions, personal interviews and short talks.

Participants also will have ample opportunity for networking and engaging conversations that fuel action and collaboration.

Registration is now open. The cost is $595 for registration by March 5, or $725 after March 5.

Registration is available online.

About the Women’s Philanthropy Institute

The Women’s Philanthropy Institute is part of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. The institute increases understanding of women’s philanthropy through rigorous research and education, interpreting and sharing these insights broadly to improve philanthropy. Follow the institute on Twitter @WPIinsights and on Facebook .

About the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is dedicated to improving philanthropy to improve the world by training and empowering students and professionals to be innovators and leaders who create positive and lasting change. The school offers a comprehensive approach to philanthropy through its academic, research and international programs and through The Fund Raising School, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, and the Women’s Philanthropy Institute. Follow the school on Twitter @IUPhilanthropy or on Facebook.