Technology has made it easier than ever to communicate, collaborate, and work from almost anywhere. But technology cannot create the relationships that make organizations stronger. A leadership retreat reminded me that some of the most valuable moments happen between the agenda items, when people share stories, discover common ground, and begin to see others as people rather than job titles. In an increasingly digital workplace, getting people together may be more important than ever.
Read MoreSome of the most meaningful gifts will never be wrapped in paper. They're found in shared experiences, a road trip, a concert, a ballgame, or an afternoon spent together without distractions. While possessions eventually wear out or are forgotten, memories tend to appreciate over time, becoming stories, traditions, and part of a family's identity. The greatest inheritance we leave may not be what we owned, but the moments we shared.
Read MoreValentine’s Day may spotlight romance, but real love reveals itself in repetition, not spectacle. Over time, love becomes endurance. Showing up quietly in recovery, grief, inconvenience, and the thousand small acts no one applauds. The truest expression of love isn’t a card or a dinner; it’s the person who keeps choosing you on ordinary days. That kind of love doesn’t announce itself, it proves itself.
Read MoreFundraising events may look busy and feel productive, but the data shows they rarely deliver lasting results. Donors increasingly want authentic connection, clear communication of impact, and opportunities to partner in meaningful ways—not another gala or golf outing. Studies confirm that events make up only a small fraction of charitable giving while draining staff time and fueling burnout. The real path forward lies in relationship-driven strategies that prioritize trust, transparency, and long-term impact.
Read MoreAs college football season kicks off, the excitement is dampened by stories of players prioritizing financial gain over the game. Recent comments by Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy and a rumored incident with Alabama’s Nick Saban underscore a shift in focus from football to money, highlighting misplaced priorities. These stories remind us that while financial success is important, relationships, trust, and honor should come first, both in sports and in life.
Read MoreIn the last 25 years, the fundraising landscape has shifted from the tried-and-true 80/20 rule to a 95/5 model, where a small percentage of donors provide the majority of philanthropic dollars. This change created an unfortunate trend of nonprofits to pursuing mega-donors recklessly. Evidence as illustrated by Florida A&M University’s $240 million gift fiasco, which highlights the importance of due diligence even in the face of exciting opportunities.
Read MoreDo you unplug? I have not been great about taking time off, but am working hard to change that habit. Research shows there are critical benefits to taking time away from work. Read this blog to learn more.
Read MoreIn your lifetime, if you find just one, two, or three friends you can trust with your most intimate and important details, you’re a lucky person. I have been fortunate to find my “people” and I hope you have too. Read more here.
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