May
27
Marian Johnson2025-2026 ADRP President
Happy May!
If you were expecting to hear from Scott Eichinger in this month’s column, you’re not mistaken. I want to take a moment to thank Scott, whose transition into the role of Executive Director marks a new and exciting chapter for ADRP. Stepping into the role of President earlier than anticipated is a responsibility I embrace with gratitude. While Scott’s title has changed, we’re fortunate that his leadership and presence within our community remain. On behalf of the Board, I want to express our appreciation and share how excited we are to continue working alongside him in this new capacity.
I still remember my first ADRP International Conference in Providence back in 2013. I didn’t know anyone attending that year and wasn’t sure what to expect. At breakfast on the first day, an attendee sat next to me, smiled, and struck up a conversation. That simple act of kindness helped ease my nerves and made me feel welcome. I still remember a keynote address from Elizabeth Crabtree, who spoke about how creativity, innovation, and action can help us turn challenges into solutions. Her message feels especially relevant now, as we look toward the future of ADRP. It’s these moments and reflections that remind me what makes our community so special.
Registration for the 2025 International Conference in Montreal, Canada, Passport to Partnerships, opens on Monday, June 2. Early Bird rates are available until July 9. As a Canadian, I’m especially excited to welcome our global community to Montreal – the first time our flagship event will be held outside the United States. The theme, Passport to Partnerships, captures the spirit of connection, collaboration, and shared learning that defines ADRP. Whether this is your first conference or your 10th, I hope you’ll join us in Montreal for the chance to connect, learn, and be inspired.
If you're looking to connect sooner, tickets are still available for My ADRP Live - Midwest on Friday, May 30, and My ADRP Live - Denver on Tuesday, June 10. My ADRP Live events are casual, regional gatherings that offer a great opportunity to network with donor relations peers and dig into the most pressing questions from My ADRP. We hope to see you there!
The Board of Directors will host My ADRP Live - Denver when we gather to continue developing ADRP’s 2025–2030 strategic plan. The member survey that many of you completed in fall 2024 provided invaluable data and insights, shaping key priorities for the plan. This includes increasing content accessibility, improving ADRP’s website, elevating the volunteer experience, and creating offerings for those new to donor relations. I look forward to sharing the final strategic plan with you later this year.
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