Thanks to those who could join us in New Orleans to experience what makes EPIP conferences so unique and designed for the holistic learning and professional development for early- and mid-career philanthropic practitioners. Here's a recap of our conference theme and the highlights from our time together.
Reconnect: After so many years meeting over Zoom, we come together in vibrant New Orleans to find our people, grow as leaders, and build the connections that we know sustain this work long-term. Reconnect with your EPIP community and leave with lasting connections that will carry you into the next phase of your career.
Revive: We believe in the power of rest, healing, and restoration in order to show up as our best selves in the field of philanthropy. At EPIP 2024, we design spaces so you can come as you are, make meaningful connections, and leave feeling revived. You can expect healing spaces, quiet space, local artists, opportunities to explore New Orleans, movement opportunities, and more.
Rise: We build connections and sustain ourselves because we know we have a responsibility in philanthropy to return resources and power to community and social movements. Learn from leaders in the field about how philanthropy can act boldly to bring about a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. Leave the conference with concrete ideas and calls-to-action relevant to your role as an emerging leader.
Conference Highlights
WELCOME RECEPTION
Our attendees visited the New Orleans African American Museum for a beautiful reception where we learned about the history of the Tremé neighborhood from Chief Curator Gia Hamilton, delighted in music from the New Breed Brass Band, and celebrated EPIP’s accomplishments over the last few years. Attendees got to tour the museum, and visit amongst the garden murals of local leaders and activists who have shaped the city.
DYNAMIC PLENARIES
EPIP 2024 featured three plenaries: Black and Indigenous Solidarity in New Orleans, Philanthropy Won’t Break my Soul, and Harnessing Philanthropic Courage for an Uncertain Future. In these inspiring sessions, participants gained insight into the history and present of Black and Indigenous movements in New Orleans, the “why” of philanthropic leaders across the sector, and how to build the future of philanthropy together.
LOCAL ART
Throughout the conference, we wove in local performers and artisans to bring the spirit of New Orleans and sense of place to all of our attendees. We hosted a learning tour, guided by Know NOLA Tours, featuring stops at Congo Square, the Plessy v. Ferguson historical landmark, StudioBe, Ashé Cultural Arts Center, and the TEP Center. We also hosted performances together with sessions, a Night Market featuring local vendors and artisans, and concluded with Kinfolk Brass Band who lead us in a celebratory second line!
