Gift planning professionals from across the country gathered in New Orleans from October 14 to 16 for CGP Conference 2026. Over three days, attendees celebrated the industry through practical learning, new connections and the history of the city. Whether you participated in the conference or wish you could have, continue reading for a recap of CGP Conference 2026.

By the Numbers

95 speakers led 75 sessions across 7 tracks.
1,160+ attendees representing global organizations, companies and donors
250+ first-time attendees 

Connection, Mentorship and Getting Involved

Some of the most valuable moments happen between sessions, and CGP Conference was designed with that in mind. Workshops, the First-Time Attendee Meet-Up, and the CGP Experience kicked off the conference. For first-time attendees, the meet-up was a welcoming start, offering an opportunity to connect with others and hear tips to make the most of their time. 

Newcomers and longtime members found opportunities to connect, learn, and get involved with the organization in the CGP Experience. Attendees got an exclusive sneak peek at CGP’s new learning management system, designed to make it easier than ever to attend events and participate with your professional home. 

In the afternoon, case studies and the Hall of Fame Panel offered a deeper exploration of the concepts shaping the profession. Between sessions, attendees traded ideas with peers managing many of the same questions, challenges, and processes.

Learning Across the Tracks

Charitable gift planning asks professionals to sit with donors through some of the most meaningful decisions of their lives. Opening dinner and keynote speaker Vicki Clark reminded attendees that confidence and credibility are part of the craft too.

During Thursday’s Advocacy Update Plenary, Sandra Swirski examined the policy and political landscape for charitable gift planners, a timely look at the issues shaping our work. 

Dr. Russell James closed out the conference with "Top 10 Inheritance Myths: What Really Happens to Heirs, Wealth, and Giving in the 'Great Wealth Transfer,'" which left lots to consider when evaluating the future of inheritance. 

Session programming was organized across tracks, from discovery to deep dives and complex gifts. That structure allowed attendees to build a schedule around their own needs, whether they were new to the field and looking for foundational skills or decades into their careers and ready to sharpen their approach to more sophisticated gifts. 

Honoring the Community

CGP Conference is also an opportunity to celebrate the people who move the profession forward. This year, we recognized honorees including Bryan K. Clontz, Margaret M. Holman, and Dr. Eddie Thompson, the 2026 CGP Hall of Fame inductees. Brianne Kilpatrick was honored as the Rising Star, and the Planned Giving Council of Middle Tennessee received the Council of the Year award. 2026 marked a special occasion with the Distinguished Service award honoring Steve Clark and Gordon Smith for their leadership in developing the CGP Mentor Program. 

Their contributions strengthen the gift planning profession and CGP community. Awardees were honored by their peers and mentors with a special video presentation. Learn more about each awardee here. 

Thank you, see you in 2027!

From the first workshop to the final session, CGP Conference 2026 was a reminder of what makes this profession special: people who are generous with their time and knowledge, and who are committed to helping donors turn their values into lasting impact. Attendees left New Orleans with new ideas, new connections and renewed energy for the work ahead.

Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, and every attendee who made CGP Conference 2026 an experience to remember. Your generosity of time and knowledge is what our community is built on.

Celebrate the 40th annual CGP Conference, October 19–22, 2027, in Washington, D.C. See you there!