Effective Nonprofit Operations: Board Buy-In & Strategic Planning with NXUnite by Nexus Marketing
Effective Nonprofit Operations: Board Buy-In & Strategic Planning with NXUnite by Nexus Marketing
Strong leadership and smart planning keep great nonprofits running smoothly. This panel will discuss how to truly engage your board and build a strategic plan that actually gets used. Whether you're leading a small team or managing a larger organization, these insights can help you strengthen your operations and make a bigger impact. Hear from seasoned pros on what works (and what doesn't) when it comes to aligning people and planning, and join us to learn how to put it all into action.
Access the Webinar Recording Here:
What you will learn:
How to build lasting board engagement and trust
Strategies for aligning board members with mission goals
What makes a nonprofit strategic plan truly effective
How leadership style influences nonprofit operational success
Balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operations
Panelists
Brian Abernathy General Manager at Convergent Nonprofit Solutions LinkedIn Brian Abernathy's nonprofit career has spanned more than two decades. As General Manager of Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, Brian provides leadership to a team of 30+ nonprofit experts in supporting organizations of all types through capital and comprehensive campaign management, and an array of other services, including planning and board strategy.
Jenni Burton Senior Director of Marketing at Boardable LinkedIn Jenni Burton is a passionate nonprofit advocate, dedicated board member, and champion for causes that matter—especially homelessness and affordable housing. With a dynamic career that bridges the tech and retail industries, Jenni has held diverse roles across marketing, product, and sales, thriving equally in team leadership and hands-on execution. She’s known for turning big ideas into real-world impact. Beyond her professional life, Jenni is a proud mom committed to raising compassionate, community-minded kids. She finds joy and balance through pickleball, running, weightlifting, and exploring her love of fashion, art, and food. Driven by curiosity and compassion, Jenni is always seeking ways to grow, give back, and have fun along the way.
Jennifer Hume Director of Finance and Operational Support atSparkrock LinkedIn With over 15 years of senior leadership experience, Jennifer is a CPA and CMA who specializes in finance, operations, and ERP solutions that drive efficiency and strategic growth. Currently serving as a Pre-Sales Consultant, she delivers impactful ERP demos that highlight how finance and HR solutions can enhance decision-making and streamline operations. Jennifer excels at translating complex ERP capabilities into practical, real-world solutions for CFOs, HR leaders, and finance teams. She has led cross-functional teams across finance, HR, IT, and procurement, driving digital transformation through ERP implementations and process improvements. Her experience spans nonprofits, education, and the public sector, with a strong focus on optimizing budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and financial reporting.
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Testimonials
Andrew Keenan
“The fact that Convergent could make the ask was huge. Working with our director and joining solicitations made me a better fundraiser – that was the right formula for us. Moving forward I feel much more confident in making asks and telling our story, and that is going to make us more sustainable in the long run.”
Andrew Keenan, Executive Director Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Atlanta, GA
Lisa Zaken
“In the span of six short months, our Board went from being nervous about the initial campaign investment to being ecstatic with the attainment of our goal, and our subsequent stretch goal! Convergent can do it like no other. Their system is rigorous and extremely effective. We have nothing but great things to say about this organization!”
Lisa Zaken, President & CEO Leadership Gwinnett | Duluth, GA
Dion Davis
“The strategy and support offered by Convergent helped our Board expand its vision for the Foundation, which in turn helped to refocus and redefine our organization's impact in our community. The methodology behind their capital campaign process not only helps to raise more money in the immediate, but it also builds best practices for long-term investor relations and lays groundwork for the success of future funding initiatives.”
Dion Davis, Former Executive Director Jekyll Island Foundation | Jekyll Island, GA
Robin Mauck
“Working with Convergent has been a pleasure all the way around. Their approach is customized to your organization and their expertise is unmatched in the field. The Convergent team immersed themselves in our process, culture, and goals to provide exceptional value during our campaign. They truly walk alongside you every step of the way!”
Robin Mauck, Executive Director Obria Medical Clinics Gwinnett | Lawrenceville, GA
Aimee Hall
“I loved working with Convergent. I never could have done what Convergent did. If you want to run a successful campaign, you need to bring in that expertise. Thanks to their help, our capital campaign really took us to the next level within our community.”
Aimee Hall, Executive Director Safe Homes Domestic Violence Center | Augusta, GA
Phillip Aldridge
“I wanted to thank everyone from the Convergent team who assisted in our campaign. Of the varying ways the campaign’s success may be measured, I count it a blessing that we achieved what we did. Not just the funds committed but the contacts made, the level of exposure reached, and ultimately, what the funds and exposure mean in terms of how many more we now serve as a result. My thanks is in recognition and appreciation for Convergent serving as our fundraising counsel and for the patience and professionalism demonstrated throughout the campaign. You were a godsend for Valley Healthcare!”
Phillip Aldridge, Board Chair Valley Healthcare System | Colombus, GA
Jeff Taylor
“Early in our campaign feasibility study it became apparent that we lacked the Asking Rights necessary to conduct a capital campaign. As a result, Convergent’s knowledgeable consultants prepared an extensive plan of action that is a road map for growing our awareness and philanthropy. A successful capital campaign will be possible in the near future. Their entrepreneurial approach will definitely get you where you want to go.”
Jeff Taylor, CEO MedCura Health, formerly Oakhurst Medical Center | Stone Mountain, GA
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