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New Grantmakers Institute

When
Thursday, January 22, 2026
9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Where
Midway Saint Paul Location
Pricing

$150 MCF members / $275 MCF non-member grantmakers

MCF Member and Nonmember Grantmakers

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New Grantmakers Institute

The New Grantmakers Institute is an immersive day-long workshop designed to equip you with essential knowledge and skills about the field of philanthropy. As a participant, you will delve into the history of institutional philanthropy and its evolving role in communities. Through interactive sessions, you will examine the legal context surrounding philanthropic endeavors and gain insights into the diverse practices within the field. Luncheon conversations provide opportunities for networking and sharing experiences across different grantmaker types. The workshop culminates with reflective discussions on the state of philanthropy, connections to equity and belonging, and conversations about your power and role. The goal of the day is to empower you to elevate your personal practice in your grantmaking institution, with confidence and purpose.

Our facilitators for the day will be Sareen Dunleavy Keenan, Director, Strategic Partnerships, Greater Twin Cities United Way and Kenna Poppler, Director of Community Engagement, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America.

This workshop is geared toward:

  • Individuals who are new to the world of foundations and grantmaking institutions, including trustees, program officers, grants managers, and others interested in understanding the broad context of their work or service
  • Individuals who have long-time experience working or serving in philanthropy including those who are interested in deepening their own connection to the work, understanding their own power, and exploring their personal professional motivations

Learning Areas

Philanthropy as a Field

  • History of Philanthropy
  • Legal Context
  • Introduction to Grantmaking

Reflective Conversations

  • Luncheon Conversations by Grantmaker Type: private family and independent foundations, community foundations / public grantmaking charities, and corporate grantmakers
  • Reflective Guest Panel of Experienced Grantmaking Professionals: Tessa Eddy, Director of Giving, Best Buy Foundation; Ambar Hanson, Executive Director, Mortenson Family Foundation; and Nancy Zallek, President and CEO, Mankato Area Foundation

Philanthropy as a Practice

  • Philanthropy and Community
  • Equity and Belonging
  • Launching Your Personal Practice in Philanthropy

Schedule at a Glance

  • Check-in: 8:30 - 9:00, snacks and coffee will be served; feel free to bring your preferred morning beverage
  • Session time: 9:00 - 3:30, lunch will be served
  • Adjourn: 3:30

Before January 22

  • Participants are asked to spend up-to one hour reading about the history of philanthropy, via this online resource. This pre-reading assignment will help inform your participation during one of the day's learning modules.
  • Please update your online MCF profile with any dietary restrictions or notify Khin Oo, [email protected]. We will attempt to accommodate all requests made at least one week prior.

For additional information, please reach out to Paul Masiarchin, [email protected]

In order to create the best in-person experience, this event will not be simulcast. Learn more here. The exact location of this will be emailed to those who register.

Facilitators and Panel Members

Tessa Eddy
Ambar Hanson
Sareen Dunleavy Keenan
Kenna Poppler
Nancy Zallek
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