More than 1,000 gift planning and allied professionals gathered in Indianapolis for CGP Conference 2025. As the hometown for the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners and headquarters for thousands of philanthropic institutions, Indianapolis delivered its signature Hoosier hospitality throughout three exceptional days of professional development and networking.

Quick Stats: 

• 1,000+ gift planning professionals from 49 states and two Canadian Provinces

• Nearly 400 first-time CGP Conference attendees

• 90+ speakers leading over 100 educational sessions

• 45 sponsors and exhibitors dedicated their time and support to make the conference possible

• Five awardees honored for their contributions to philanthropy

• Countless opportunities to connect, gain new insights and create lasting memories 

What Made 2025 Special:
Indianapolis’s prime location and deep-rooted connections to CGP and the philanthropic sector created the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable conference. Engaging presentations and collaborative networking opportunities drove the energy from start to finish. From inspiring keynote and plenary presentations to Wednesday Workshops and packed breakout sessions, each day brought a variety of opportunities to deepen our understanding of the ever-evolving gift planning industry. 

The robust schedule offered a variety of sessions and events for professionals at every level of their career. Topics ranged from federal policy changes, leadership impact and donor engagement strategies to complex charitable gift annuities and navigating imposter syndrome. Through current challenges, opportunities and success stories amidst gift planning professionals nationwide, presenters equipped attendees with actionable data and takeaways to elevate their work in 2026.

Keynote and Plenaries
Eileen Heisman set the tone for the conference during her Fireside Chat with CGP Conference Chair, Matt Treadwell, offering insights that sparked thoughtful conversations throughout the week. During Thursday’s Advocacy Update Lunch, Sandra Swirski shared the latest developments from Washington that could impact the philanthropic sector. Brandolon Barnett’s memorable presentation brought the conference to an inspiring finish.

CGP Awardees 2025 
CGP Conference celebrates excellence in gift planning and philanthropy through educational sessions, networking opportunities, and honoring the annual CGP Award and Scholarship awardees. Read more about the scholarship recipients.

Each of the 2025 CGP Awardees was honored during CGP Conference with a personalized video acknowledging their impact on the industry, the community and their respective organizations.

Abigail Oduol | CGP Rising Star 2025
Press Release | Video 

National Capital Gift Planning Council | CGP Council of the Year 2025
Press Release | Video

Joe Bull | Hall of Fame 2025
Press Release | Video

Philip M. Purcell | Hall of Fame 2025
Press Release | Video 

William T. Sturtevant | Hall of Fame 2025
Press Release | Video

Beyond the Sessions
On Wednesday evening, CGP Conference attendees in the hotel block found a special surprise waiting at their door – a special printed edition of The Journal of Gift Planning, created especially for CGP Conference 2025. 

It wasn’t just the formal programming that made the CGP Conference 2025 so memorable, but the moments in between. Snuggles from kittens and puppies in the CGP Lounge provided a moment of respite in the Solutions Center. Conversations over coffee turned into connections that will extend beyond the conference. Attendees’ shared passion for philanthropy sparked opportunities to collaborate, connect and create meaningful change across the industry.   

Solutions Center
In the Solutions Center, attendees saw nearly six hours of dedicated time to visit with exhibitors and explore new and ever-evolving technologies. This important component of CGP Conference supports connectivity between attendees seeking new solutions, as well as space for sponsors and exhibitors to demonstrate their services to individuals across the philanthropic space.

Looking Ahead
Save the date for CGP Conference 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana, from October 14-16. Explore solutions, engage with peers and evolve your skills with gift planning specialists from around the country. 

From the Dead Giveaway Podcast and webinars to the Perspectives newsletter and specialized events, stay up-to-date with CGP for another year of educational opportunities and programming to advance your skills and further your career. 

Catch up on everything you missed from CGP Conference 2025 on social media. Explore the #CGPConference hashtag to view posts from CGP, attendees and speakers. Information regarding speaking opportunities for 2026 will be available in the Spring. 

Attended the conference and would like to share feedback? Complete the survey in the attendee hub and mobile app.