Sherrye Willis, MBA, Alliance for Greater Works, Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

Recent Developments from Capitol Hill, the Courts, and Beyond 

In an ever-changing environment, it is critical to stay current on legal, tax, and financial trends impacting your ministry. Join this engaging discussion on the latest developments from Capitol Hill, the courts, and beyond.

Speakers:

Michael Martin, ECFA, Winchester, VA

Aaron Mercer, ECFA, Winchester, VA

Explore emerging policy developments shaping nonprofit operations, funding, and compliance obligations. This session will provide practical insights into adapting governance strategies, mitigating funding disruptions, and proactively addressing compliance in a shifting regulatory environment.

Speaker:
Genevra M. Williams, Mendrygal Law, PLLC

No Organization is exempt from the increasing occurrences of internal fraud. This session provides a framework for addressing internal fraud including recent, recurring frauds and why the same types of fraud are happening repeatedly. Using the speaker’s real-life investigations of religious and nonprofit organization fraud, the session addresses what can be done now to address this trend – the development and implementation of an efficient, effective organizational anti-fraud program.

Speaker:
Steve Dawson CPA, CFE, Dawson Forensic Analytics, PLLC, Lubbock, TX

By the end of the session, participants will be able to define who is a minister according to both the Department of Labor and Internal Revenue Service definitions, will gain a better understanding of the dual tax status unique to ministers and will be able correctly designate and account for the minister’s housing allowance. We will also discuss income and expense plans related to ministerial employees.

Speaker:
Sandra Fowler, CPA, Sommerville & Associates, P.C., Arlington, TX

In this engaging seminar, church and Christian nonprofit leaders will be empowered to navigate the challenges of today’s uncertain landscape while fostering a culture of generosity. Participants will explore practical strategies to inspire and motivate their congregations and stakeholders to give, even when times are tough. Together, we will delve into real-life stories of resilience and faith-driven giving, equipping leaders with innovative tools to cultivate connection and unlock the generous spirit present in every heart. Join us to ignite a passion for generosity that transcends challenges and thrives in the face of adversity!

Speaker:
Dr. Carla Maxwell Ray, CFRE, Generis Hoschton, GA

In today’s rapidly changing landscape, church leaders face challenges that can significantly impact their ministries. This discussion highlights the 5 overlooked dangers in the legal arena that every church leader must be aware of to navigate these challenges effectively. From understanding current cases to addressing the impact of digital tools, this engaging discussion will empower leaders to make informed decisions, strengthen their communities, and foster growth within their congregations. 

Speaker:
Erika Cole, The Church Attorney, Columbia, MD

Cash flow isn’t just a finance topic—it’s a survival skill for nonprofits. In this session, we’ll break down how to understand, forecast, and manage cash flow in a ministry or nonprofit context. Whether you're dealing with delayed grants, seasonal donations, or restricted funds, you’ll learn practical tools to stay financially steady and mission focused. Perfect for executive directors, program managers, and finance staff alike.

Speaker:
Sandra Ray, CPA, Sandra E. Ray, CPA, P.C., Zionsville, IN

Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming donor engagement for nonprofits and social enterprises. Explore practical ways AI can enhance personalization, streamline communications, and optimize fundraising strategies to build stronger donor relationships. Participants will learn to leverage AI tools for donor segmentation, automated outreach, and impact storytelling while maintaining the human touch that drives meaningful connections. Whether you're new to AI or seeking to refine your approach, this session offers actionable strategies to elevate your donor engagement and achieve measurable results.

Speaker:
Dr. Tracy V. Allen, Ph.D., PMP, LSSGB, MLC, Kissimmee, FL

This interactive session helps churches and nonprofits develop a Building Usage process while identifying the risks of third-party use of their facilities—risks that are often overlooked, especially when children are involved in the third party’s programming. Participants will receive a sample Building Use Policy, and an outline tailored for the organization's Controller to assist in creating or refining their own policies.

Speaker:
Paula Burns, CIC, CRM Insurance One, The Woodlands, TX 

Creating predictable revenue through a sustainer program is critical as we navigate potential stagflation or a recession. In this session, we will explore the importance of building a resilient donor pipeline, how to utilize technology to identify and engage recurring givers and key strategies and activities to build and maintain a vibrant program. Attendees will hear examples of successful programs and will receive a post-seminar exercise to create your organization’s unique value proposition to use to build your case for sustainer support with donors.

Speaker:
Kim Richardson, MBA, Allegiance Group + Pursuant, Dallas, TX

Best practices and streamlined solutions are pertinent for non-profit organizations. In this presentation, we will explore current financial and accounting challenges faced by nonprofit organizations, technology stacks that can streamline your accounting processes and opportunities for optimization of your financial systems and reports.

Speaker:
Emily M. Cook and Erika Norton, CPA, SST Accountants & Consultants, Dallas, TX

In this fast-paced, highly practical session, we’ll demystify the planning phase of a campaign and help you determine the right kind of study for your ministry. Whether you're trying to renovate your sanctuary, build new ministry space, or expand your outreach programs, this workshop will guide you step-by-step. If you’re unsure how to begin—or worried, you’ll take the leap and land with a thud—this session is for you. You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and maybe even a laugh or two, as you prepare your ministry for a campaign that’s both faithful and feasible.

Speaker:
Kristin Priest, MA, CFRE, Allegiance Group + Pursuant, Dallas, TX

No matter the size of an organization, at some point at least one person will be compensated for their valuable time and talents and there are some core foundational practices that apply to all organizations once they begin to embrace compensation plans for workers.  This session will discuss these core practices as well as identify common mistakes and consequences when best practices are not followed. 

Speaker:
Elaine Sommerville, CPA, Sommerville & Associates, P.C., Arlington, TX