Indianapolis, IN: The National Association of Charitable Gift Planners (CGP) is pleased to announce Eileen Heisman, Senior Fellow at the Center for High Impact Philanthropy at the University of Pennsylvania and former CEO for National Philanthropic Trust, as the Opening Dinner Keynote Speaker for CGP Conference 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

In a conversation with Matthew Treadwell, Gift Planning Attorney at Indiana University Foundation and CGP Conference Chair, Eileen will reveal candid insights from her inspiring journey in gift planning and philanthropy. Reflecting on pivotal moments that have defined her career, Eileen will share how she’s navigated the ever-changing environment, reshaped her approach to leadership, and developed her philanthropy philosophy.

With over 20 years as CEO of National Philanthropic Trust (NPT), Eileen has transformed charitable giving by building one of the world’s largest donor-advised fund providers, managing $63 billion in charitable assets and distributing $31 billion to 778,000 grant entities worldwide. 

“Few individuals have had a greater impact on modern philanthropy than Eileen Heismann,” says Michael Kenyon, CEO of CGP, “Throughout her career, she has been a visionary leader and an industry innovator, advancing meaningful philanthropy across the globe.”

A leader in gift planning and strategy, Eileen pioneered innovative approaches that have become industry standards, including the first national private-label DAF programs for large financial firms and distinctive concierge donor services. 

Recently appointed as a Senior Fellow at Penn's Center for High Impact Philanthropy, Elieen continues to transform the industry through speaking engagements, advisory roles, and serving as a mentor for emerging leaders. Her expertise spans corporate strategy and risk management to global philanthropy, fundraising, and anti-money laundering. 

Eileen’s leadership and innovation have been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2024 DAF Giving Summit DAF Trailblazer Award and Nonprofit Times’ Power and Influence Top 50 for 10 consecutive years. Frequently featured in prominent media outlets including CNN, Bloomberg, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal, Eileen remains one of philanthropy’s most influential voices. 

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The National Association of Charitable Gift Planners is delighted to have Eileen speak at CGP Conference 2025 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis, Indiana. Eileen will present during the Opening Dinner on Wednesday, October 15. The Opening Dinner is sponsored by TIAA Kaspick.

Learn more on the CGP Conference website. 

About CGP: The National Association of Charitable Gift Planners (CGP) is the leading organization setting standards for charitable gift planners. We bring members together to learn, connect and advocate. We provide education and resources that enrich and advance careers. We connect colleagues at all levels through our national network—including those who defined the field. We exist to serve our distinguished profession and bring to life the art and science of charitable gift planning.

Visit CGP at https://charitablegiftplanners.org.