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Founder and Executive Director
Aqueduct Foundation
Malcolm is Head, Philanthropic Advisory Services at Scotia Wealth Management and the founder and Executive Director of Aqueduct Foundation. He is a proud Friend of CAGP (2003), active sector writer and speaker, and past CAGP course director. He started his gift planning career in 1990.
Client Consultant
Cidel Asset Management
Arundel joined Cidel Asset Management in 2023 as a Client Consultant and supports both private wealth and institutional (non-for-profit) clients.
With over twenty years of experience in leadership roles at corporate and not-for-profit entities, Arundel’s passion for Responsible Investing is what influenced her to join the team at Cidel. Previously, she led philanthropic advisory services for a multinational, professional services firm’s family office operations in Canada.
Senior Consultant
Global Philanthropic Canada
With over 20 years of marketing and communications experience and being one of the first in the world to earn a certificate in Philanthropic Psychology with distinction, Aimée Lindenberger brings innovative approaches to charities across Canada, helping them engage their supporters more deeply, especially in the area of legacy giving which is her passion.
Aimée has held leadership roles in the Greater Vancouver Chapters of CAGP and AFP; she is the author of the highly regarded book “How to Talk About Legacy Giving”; and she regularly gives back to the sector as a speaker and teacher.
Senior Consultant
Global Philanthropic
Guy founded Global Philanthropic Inc. (Canada) in 2010. His fundraising experience is extensive, and he consults with many non-profit agencies and organizations in Canada and internationally.
He has been recognized by both Edmonton and Calgary AFP Chapters as Fundraising Executive of the Year and recognized by Alberta Venture Magazine as one of Alberta’s 50 most influential citizens. Guy is Author in, and Editor of, the Global & Mail bestselling book, Excellence in Fundraising in Canada.
He was the chief architect of highly successful campaigns, including a university campaign for $144.65 million that raised more than $190 million, and the SAIT Polytechnic campaign for $80 million that raised $83 million.
Planned Giving Specialist, Fund Development
YMCA Northern Alberta Foundation
A development professional since 2004, Laura loves to match people with giving opportunities that help them to meet their philanthropic goals and empowers them to make an impact in their community. From the ripe age of 24, Laura has always loved the idea and practice of planned to give and is happy to be working exclusively in this area for the YMCA of Northern Alberta Foundation and happy to serve on the CAGP Alberta North Chapter as Co-Chair with Christy Soholt.
Lawyer
DLA Piper (Canada) LLP
Kate Bake-Paterson is a lawyer at DLA Piper (Canada) LLP who practices in the area of charities and not-for-profit organizations. She regularly advises organizations on a broad range of issues, including governance and other matters related to incorporating and organizing not-for-profit entities; regulatory compliance (such as obtaining and maintaining charitable registration); receipt of charitable gifts and other planned giving and the conduct of revenue-generating activities. Kate also
assist donors in making charitable gifts. Kate is the Co-Chair of CAGP Vancouver Chapter.
Fundraising Strategist
Gryphon Fundraising
A born storyteller, Sam Laprade was destined to be a fundraising professional and an award-winning broadcaster! Combining these two passions, Sam works to give a voice to new ideas, tough topics, and philanthropy. She helps charitable organizations engage with donors through data analytics, board
training and fundraising and stewardship reports.
Sam is an engaging, inspiring international speaker who takes audiences on a journey during her presentations. From emotional issues to stand-up comedy, she leaves them on their feet cheering. Sam is also the creator and host of “An Hour to Give” on Rogers tv Ottawa highlighting non-profit organizations and philanthropy.
Executive Director
Legion Foundation BC/Yukon
Senior Director, Fund Development
Lumenus Foundation
Laura loves fundraising. With a background in agency side and client side she has a unique lens on the sector. With deep experience in all things annual giving Laura brings strong data skills, an IDEA lens and wide ranging knowledge no matter the channel.
Having founded the Speaker Discovery Series, Chairing AFP Toronto Congress in 2020 and spoken all over the world has not stopped Laura from getting into the muck with fundraisers who need a hand. She is passionate about mentoring and uplifting those around her and sharing the joy she has for our profession!
Director, Emerging Leaders
Chavender
Sherry completed a Masters in Health Administration with a specialization in leadership and team building strategies so that she could bring her people-focused approach to the institutions where she was working. Specifically, Sherry gravitated to mentorship: she saw it as a built-in opportunity for organizations looking to strengthen their leaders, and the culture of their organization by expanding networks and relationships across the organization.
Sherry spent 35 years at CapitalCare and CapitalCare Foundation, a long term care organization that supports ten seniors homes across the capital region of Alberta. As the Foundation Director for 10 years, she managed more than 60 staff, completed two significant capital campaigns (raising more than $15 Million), led major signature events with up to 500 attendees, and supported staff in the development of sustainable succession plans within the organization.
Planned Giving Consultant
Donor Motivation Program
Since 1991, Tina Tehranchian has been advising high net worth individuals, families, and business owners on how to implement advanced planning strategies to reduce income and estate taxes while at the same time increase their overall income and their charitable contributions.
Tina is a much sought-after speaker and an award-winning financial advisor. Her highly acclaimed industry comments and advice have been printed in The Wall Street Journal, The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, The National Post, Morningstar and Yahoo Finance. Tina is also a frequent contributor to the Canadian Business Journal and has been featured on CBC, CTV and BNN. Tina currently serves as the chair of the major gifts committee of the CAGP Foundation.
Partner & Head of Client Delivery
Good Works
Charlotte is a fundraiser and digital native with more than a decade of experience in communications and fundraising. She’s a strategic thinker with a mind for integrating offline and online tactics to create cohesive donor journeys that generate exceptional results. As a partner at Good Works, she’s worked with charities of all sizes and causes to raise funds from annual and legacy donors. Charlotte is a co-author of ‘You Can’t Take It With You: The Art & Science of Legacy Fundraising’ (2019), a regular on the conference circuit, and pronounces ‘GIF’ with a hard ‘G’.
CPA & Financial Advisor
Resources & Solutions
Jos is a well sought out industry professional that is able to address asset protection, succession planning, philanthropy, and explain the tax efficiency gained in the insurance planning process.
Jos Herman, is the founder of Resources & Solutions, a boutique consulting firm. At her firm, she provides private business and personal solutions focused on tax concepts, tax efficient investment and insurance strategies, asset protection and wealth planning.
Jos is a CPA, who has spent over 25 years, serving the tax, business and estate planning needs of owner manager clients, professionals and their families.
She is able to bring together experience and expertise in a number of areas to create a uniquely integrated financial service that is focused on solving the wealth planning needs of these business owners and professionals.
Director of Major Gifts
The WoodGreen Foundation
Julie Brown, CFRE, currently holds the role of Director, Major and Legacy Giving at the WoodGreen Foundation, one of the largest social service organizations in the Province of Ontario, Canada.
She is a passionate professional with a keen interest in Stewardship, making it the hallmark of her 25 year career serving a wide variety of causes within the charitable sector. She has volunteered with CAGP for many years on many committes and currently is the Co-Chair of the Education Committee for the Greater Toronto Chapter.
In her spare time, she enjoys golf, travel and spending time with family and friends.
CEO
Chavender
Jenny Mitchell is an executive coach, a podcaster, and a published author who is on a mission to help people have more meaningful conversations. She is a lifelong learner who holds an executive coaching degree for Royal Roads University, a CFRE fundraising designation, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from SUNY Stony Brook in piano performance. She spent 10 years as a professional fundraiser helping charities and non-profit organizations raise millions of dollars to make the world a better place. As Jenny’s coaching experiences grew, and she worked with executives, Jenny identified that talented women would miss opportunities to move up the corporate ladder because they could not shift from supporting others, to supporting themselves. And that’s when the Underdog Leadership Podcast was born, with the goal of helping #2’s become #1’s in life and work.
Director, Strategic Partnerships & Communications
First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation
Emily Cabrera (she/her) is of Ojibway / Mexica / European ancestry and an urban member of Fort William First Nation. She is the Director, Strategic Partnerships & Communications at First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation. Throughout Emily’s career she has worked to secure major gifts within higher education institutions to support Indigenous initiatives and led strategic development, planned giving and capital campaigns across the non-profit sector. She has worked hard to create safe spaces and build teams that are bringing in Indigenous talent to the Philanthropic sector and generating meaningful impacts along the way.
Director of Development
Stephen Lewis Foundation
Niambi is a social change champion, community mobilizer, advocate and fund development specialist who has dedicated her career to increasing capacity for marginalized, racialized and at-risk communities. For more than 20 years, Niambi has held leadership roles in the health charity, arts and social services sectors, employing an integrated, mission-centered, collaborative approach to drive revenue, create space and empower beneficiaries. Niambi strongly believes that we all have a responsibility to drive change, end stigma and eliminate barriers so that all people have equal access to power and personal agency.
Director of Philanthropy
Ecojustice Canada Society
Huda is a purposeful fundraiser with a vision for change. Her career began over 20 years ago at a UK children’s charity. Following this, she made a significant impact the UN Refugee Agency in Jordan. After relocating to Canada, Huda joined the Canadian Cancer Society, establishing herself as a leader in the sector. She then spent a decade leading growth at Ecojustice before transitioning to Cystic Fibrosis Canada as their Chief Development Officer. Through her work she has grown and expanded donor communities weaving together threads of compassion, insight into social justice, and determination to forge a brighter future for all.
Manager, Planned Giving
University of Ottawa
A graduate in social work, communication and public management, Sylvain Ladouceur has worked in the philanthropy, community, associative and education sectors for more than 25 years. His passion for community development, communications, new technologies and humanity has carried him throughout his career.
He is currently Manager of Planned Giving at the University of Ottawa. He also served as Executive Director of the Université du Québec en Outaouais Foundation, Director of the Annual Campaign and Director of Development at Centraide Outaouais, in addition to maintaining his activities as a speaker, facilitator and as a contractual professor at La Cité (Ottawa).
He is the founder of the Regroupement des universités québécoises pour les dons planifiés (RUQDP), as served as co-chair of the education committee of the CAGP Ottawa Chapter and now presides over the CAGP Quebec Chapter Education Committee.
Manager, Planned Giving
University of Ottawa
Claude is a donor-centered fundraising professional with over 24 years of experience in planned giving, annual giving, major gifts, donor relations and sponsorships. Currently working as Manager of Planned Giving at the University of Ottawa, since 2016, Claude is passionate about helping donors fulfill their philanthropic goals and in helping to create a legacy for tomorrow’s leaders. Previously, he served as Coordinator and then Director of Philanthropy at the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum for 14 years and also worked at the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation. Claude is a long-standing member of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP), he currently contributes as a member of the CAGP National Education Committee and served as Chair of the CAGP Ottawa Chapter (2008-2011). He was also a member of the board for the AFP Ottawa chapter and was Chair of the AFP Ottawa Philanthropy Awards for 3 years.
Project Coordinator, Planned Giving
University of Ottawa
After a 13-year career with the federal government, Donna worked for over 24 years with a community-based literacy organization. She joined the University of Ottawa’s Health and Wellness team in 2021, before joining the Planned Giving team in June 2022.
Driven by her passion for people, Donna is a wonderful addition to the Planned Giving team. Her attention to detail, her understanding and respect for our generous donors and colleagues in the Advancement team, faculties and services and her perseverance have made her an important part of Planned Giving program success.
President
Harvey McKinnon Associates
Harvey McKinnon has been a fundraiser for over 40 years and is recognized as one of North America’s leading fundraising experts. He has delivered fundraising keynotes at conferences around the world and is a frequent master-class trainer. He has authored five books – most recently a third book on monthly giving: How to Create Lifelong Donors. His best-selling book, The 11 Questions Every Donor Asks, is a major gift training manual for fundraising departments throughout the US & Canada.
His company Harvey McKinnon Associates has offices in Toronto and Vancouver and works with dozens of non-profits in Canada and the USA.
Directrice, développement philanthropique
Fondation du Grand Montréal
Linda Tchombé has many years’ experience in customer service, administrative support and team supervision. On a daily basis, she assists individuals, companies and organizations in defining and implementing their philanthropic projects. She loves to talk about diversity, science and cooking! Having lived most of her life as an immigrant, she is particularly interested in issues relating to women and immigrant communities, and more specifically the place of immigrant women in society. Prior to philanthropy, she held a variety of roles in different sectors (including insurance, online sales and fundraising). She holds a PhD in applied health sciences, a DESS in bioinformatics from UQÀM, and an MBA from HEC Montréal.
Director, Philanthropy Data & Systems
Alberta Cancer Foundation
Currently serving as Director of Philanthropy Data & Systems at Alberta Cancer Foundation, Leslie possesses extensive fundraising operations experience, including project managing the transition from Raiser’s Edge to Salesforce. Previously having spent two decades as a frontline fundraiser specializing in mid-level and major gifts, her expertise in data analytics and donor relations underscores her proficiency in driving successful projects, ensuring organizational efficiency and growth.
Major Gift & Planned Giving Officer
Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories
Since beginning her fundraising career in 2011, April has gained extensive postsecondary and healthcare fundraising knowledge. Building meaningful relationships gets her out of bed in the morning. Aligning donors’ goals with organizational needs and educating donors on various giving tools to maximize their philanthropic impact keeps her going throughout the day. April is passionate about helping donors make significant contributions that support critical causes and create lasting legacies.
Executive Financial Consultant
IG Private Wealth Management
Dan Hague, Financial Legacy & Social Impact Planner. Catalyst of connection between charities & potential donors and arming these donors with the knowledge & tools to fully realize their FINANCIAL LEGACY & SOCIAL IMPACT dreams. Dan Hague, by the numbers …
Director, Legacy & Strategic Philanthropy
Alberta Cancer Foundation
Drawn to philanthropy to put her marketing knowledge to work to advance cancer care, Christy landed at the Alberta Cancer Foundation in communications in 2009. After 4 years, she evolved into gift planning and found the perfect mesh of marketing and donor relationships that is legacy giving. Leaning into CAGP’s educational offerings, research, experts in the field and relationships, Christy built a legacy program for the Alberta Cancer Foundation that had identified two new legacy intentions in 2017 to one that celebrated 145 new identified intentions in 2023. Christy also proudly serves with Laura as co-chair of the Alberta North CAGP Chapter.
Consultant
IG Wealth Management
Adam Malcolm, a former opera singer turned financial advisor, specializes in supporting purpose-driven business leaders and emerging philanthropists passionate about the arts and culture sector. After transitioning from the arts, he obtained certifications in financial planning and philanthropy, devising innovative strategies for impactful giving. Adam helps clients integrate their values with their financial goals, fostering personal and community growth. He is committed to deep, meaningful client relationships, guiding them to enhance their wealth and make significant societal contributions.
Portfolio Manager
Lexicon Financial Group / Raymond James Investment Counsel
Over his career, Craig has held leadership roles in a variety of organizations that have focused on meeting the needs of both individuals and their families as well as foundations, and charities. He is the lead Portfolio Manager and Founder of Lexicon Financial Group, establishing a relationship with Raymond James Investment Counsel in August of 2020.
Craig has extensive experience writing and speaking about issues related to the wealth management business, specifically charities and the challenges facing the nonprofit sector. He holds the Chartered Investment Manager, Registered Graphic Designer (Emeritus), and Master Financial Advisor-Philanthropy professional designations and publishing a bi-monthly newsletter for the nonprofit sector.
Craig has served on multiple boards and advisory committees for charities and nonprofits. Born in the Northwest Territories, Craig went to school in Winnipeg. He currently lives in Toronto, cheering for all their local sports teams except for one.
VP Philanthropy & Communications
Broadmead Care Society
Mandy Parker has been a member of the philanthropic community on Vancouver Island for twenty-seven years. Passionate about making a difference within healthcare and education, Mandy’s strength at the leadership and operational levels has helped to fulfill the visions of the organizations she has served. Through strategic, operational and communication planning and implementation, Mandy has intimately been involved in raising significant funds through major gifts and campaign activities.
Also, for the past twelve years, Mandy has volunteered for the GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon as chair of the CHEK Charity Pledge Program.
When out of the office, Mandy enjoys spending time outdoors either running, hiking or biking on the road or trails. Mandy and her husband have two grown boys who make them immensely proud.
Senior Consultant
Global Philanthropic Canada
With nearly 25 years’ experience in philanthropy and expertise in planned giving, Claude Lestage is a recognized leader in his field. A member of the CAGP Board of Directors, he has developed innovative approaches to help health, education, religious and community organizations succeed in their projects.
A lecturer and teacher at CAGP, and having designed a College Certification in Philanthropy and Social Impact, Claude shares his knowledge at conferences and panel discussions. His clients are located throughout French-speaking Canada, and even internationally. He also helps companies structure their philanthropic programs to maximize their impact
Lead, Legacy and Development
Aqueduct Foundation
After more than 20 years assisting physicians with their retirement and estate planning, Pat now focuses full time on charitable gift planning at Aqueduct Foundation. As Lead – Development and Legacy, Pat’s primary role is to assist Donors with planning for the establishment of new Funds, long-term granting strategies and regular updates to ensure that their wishes are well documented. Pat also manages Aqueduct Foundation’s portfolio of Legacy Funds, to ensure that Donor recommendations are carried out for them.
Pat holds the Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP) designation from STEP Canada and most recently obtained CAGP’s MFA-P designation. She lives and works in Winnipeg.
Estate and Trust Consultant
Scotiatrust
Stephanie has been helping clients address their Will & estate planning needs since joining Scotiatrust in 2012. She works with clients to identify their estate, legacy and philanthropic goals, and develops customized solutions that not only preserve and protect their estates, but effectively transitions their wealth in line with their objectives.
Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Laws degree and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta and the Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP) designation from STEP Canada. She was called to the Alberta bar in 2010 and is a member of the Law Society of Alberta and the Canadian Bar Association.
Development Associate, Planned Giving
University of Alberta
A born and raised Edmontonian, Hilary finds great satisfaction in representing her alma mater with her donor and alumni community. She specializes in empowering donors through legacy giving and strongly believes that anyone may be a philanthropist, regardless of net worth, social class, gender or age. When not wearing her fundraising hat, you will find her chasing her very active toddler all over the city.
Co-founder, President & CEO
Humanity Financial Management
Gordon is a recognized leader who works with social purpose organizations and First Nations to build their Internal capacity for financial management and financial governance.
As CEO, Gordon exemplifies our bold vision of what it means to operate with social purpose and social conscience (doing good while being good). In 2020, he led his team’s groundbreaking achievement to become the first BCorp CPA accounting firm in Canada, In 2022, he realized his goal of becoming a Benefit Corporation; the first accounting firm in British Columbia to do so.
Leadership Consultant and Spiritual Intelligence Advisor
Kathy MacFarlane Leadership Consulting
Kathy has 30 years leading fundraising in children’s services, health care, college and university settings. She has extensive experience in legacy giving, major gifts, capital campaigns, annual giving, grant writing, and special events.
Kathy has an MA in Leadership, CFRE, and is a certified Spiritual Intelligence coach, an MBTI practitioner and a Resilience@Work Coach.
She has consulted non-profits, taught courses on fund-raising and leadership and has volunteered on many boards and committees. Kathy is passionate about healthy leadership so people can thrive. She aims to maximize creativity and innovation by inviting people to bring their souls to the workplace.
Specialist, Campaign Fundraising
Diabetes Canada
Megan Spurrell is a strategic development and communications professional with 10 years’ experience in the nonprofit sector. She is a creative thinker working at the intersections of health, education, and social responsibility to engage people in taking care of themselves and their communities. When she isn’t working, Megan is taking long walks with her dog Millie, doing yoga, reading a good book, and advocating for local causes.
Fund Development Director and End of Life Educator
Liz Finney has over 30 years of experience in government, public sector, nonprofit, and international organizations. Currently she serves as the director of fund development at Bonny Lea Farm, where she leads all aspects of donor relations, fund development, and communications.
In addition to her professional work, Liz is a trained community death care doula and end-of-life educator, helping others build awareness around death and offering a safe space for discussing this universal experience.
Her commitment to service extends beyond her career. She volunteers as a board member for several organizations, including the South Shore Hospice Palliative Care Society, Shoreham Village Continuing Care, CAGP-NS, CAGP Foundation, and the Dr. John MT Finney Memorial Fund.
Founder and CEO
Benefaction Foundation
Nicola is Founder and CEO of Benefaction Foundation and President of Cause Strategies Inc. She has built a reputation as a valuable resource for those who want to integrate charitable giving into their client’s financial, estate and succession plans. Prior to founding Benefaction Foundation. Nicola spent 20 years in the financial services industry holding several senior roles.
Founder and Chief Encouragement Officer
KEA Canada
Kathy Arney is the Founder and CEO of KEA Canada, a firm dedicated to empowering social purpose organizations by enhancing capacity, accelerating revenue, and maximizing impact. With a robust background in finance and fundraising, Kathy excels at strengthening organizations and elevating their impact across the sector. She has held senior roles nationwide and advised diverse groups, including arts, community services, and Indigenous-led organizations. Kathy also serves on the Board of CAGP. Outside the office, she enjoys outdoor activities with her dogs and sings with the Castle Carolers Quartet during the holidays.
Lead – Storytelling & Communications
First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation
Alix Goetzinger is from the Haida Nation of Haida Gwaii, born into the Kayahl ‘laanas eagle clan. Alix is the Lead for Storytelling and Communications at First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation, and is honoured to be a part of bringing the Foundation’s story to the world. Telling stories lies close to Alix’s heart as she has worked as a storyteller during her time as a Haida cultural ambassador, writer, and traditional mask dancer. She is grounded in the knowledge that while the Indigenous Peoples of the world each tell their stories in their own unique ways, we all carry similar values around the importance of speaking with respect, and recounting our history by our connections to the lands, air and waters of our Mother Earth.
AVP Estate and Trust Solutions
Solus Trust Company
Paula has been providing comprehensive estate, incapacity and trust planning services to Ontario-based clients since 2017. Prior to that, she practiced as a family and estate litigator many years. Paula is passionate about using trust and estate services to provide protection to clients and their families so they may avoid the unfortunate situations she witnessed as an estate litigator. She believes that proper estate and trust planning serve to ensure a better future and a sound legacy for clients and their loved ones.
Partner
Miller Thomson LLP
Stephen Hsia is a partner at Miller Thomson LLP’s Vancouver office, where he practises in the areas of estate planning, charities and not-for-profit law, and gift planning.
Director, Personal and Planned Giving
Carleton University
Holly Greatrex is a CFRE, a proud Carleton alumna and the Director of Personal and Planned Giving at Carleton University. Holly has over 20 years of fundraising and professional experience and is an active member of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP). Holly develops and manages Carleton’s proactive planned giving programming, marketing, and fundraising plans- including the design and delivery of the Carleton University Giving Insight newsletter, surveys and other lead generating marketing efforts and tools. Holly works closely with donors to design gift plans that maximize tax and financial benefits while achieving their philanthropic goals.
Philanthropy Officer
Ecojustice Canada Society
Chantelle Ohrling, the proud daughter of an Afro-Taino immigrant, is a planned giving nerd and advocate for Community Centric Fundraising. She serves as the Philanthropy Officer (Planned Giving) at Ecojustice and is the Communications Chair for the Greater Vancouver Chapter of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP). Chantelle is also actively involved with organizations such as The Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective and Hogan’s Alley Society’s Fund Advisory Committee. Through her work, writing, and guest lecturing at UBC, she plays a pivotal role in reshaping planned giving and philanthropy to promote equity and justice, advancing decolonization for a more inclusive and just future.
Executive Director
Raymond James Canada Foundation
Eric Saarvala is the Executive Director at the Raymond James Canada Foundation and Head, Corporate Sustainability at Raymond James Ltd. His 20+ years of consulting and management experience in the private and non-profit sectors focuses on social impact through sustainability, strategic philanthropy and social purpose.
Organizations rely on him for strategies, programs, fundraising and operations, ESG initiatives, stakeholder engagement and digital transformations to power their social impact and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Eric holds an Executive MBA from the Ivey Business School and a Graduate Diploma in Social Responsibility & Sustainability from the University of St. Michael’s College.
Senior Counsel
Miller Thomson LLP
Elena Hoffstein is senior counsel at Miller Thomson LLP’s Toronto office, where she practises in the areas of social impact/charity and not-for-profit law, private client services, and tax law.
CEO
Cox & Co.
Mojdeh is an award winning consultant, convenor and facilitator who is nationally recognized for her expertise in anti=oppression and human rights. She is known bets for her support to not for profits in their effort for exemplary strategic planning and organizational development.
Partner
Miller Thomson LLP
Amanda Stacey is a partner at Miller Thomson and a member of the private client and social impact teams. Amanda provides advice in the areas of wealth management, estate planning, charity, and not- for-profit law. She advises clients on wills, trusts, powers of attorney, family business succession planning, and corporate re-organizations. Amanda also advises on the establishment, tax compliance, governance, and regulation of charities and not-for-profit organizations. She also assists financial institutions with issues pertaining to administering estate assets, registered and non-registered accounts, power of attorney, and capacity matters.
Donor Relations Advisor
Calgary Foundation
Leah’s role focuses on relationship building both with prospective fund holders and professional advisors. In her spare time, Leah is all about spending meaningful time with her family and making lasting memories for her young son.
Vice President Donor Engagement
Calgary Foundation
Riz Nathoo is the Vice-President, Donor Engagement at Calgary Foundation. Riz’s role is to connect with donors and professional advisors to educate, inform and inspire philanthropy for the benefit of our community. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family hiking in the Rockies and biking through Calgary’s vast network of trails.
Executive Director
Medicine Hat Healthcare Foundation
Heather Bach stands out as a dedicated and passionate executive in healthcare philanthropy. Known for her fierce independence and unwavering commitment to excellence, Heather approaches every challenge with creativity and determination, consistently finding innovative ways to achieve her goals and boost revenue.
Her loyalty extends deeply to her community, family, and anyone eager to delve into the world of philanthropy. Heather’s dedication to giving back is exemplified through her active involvement in volunteerism. She holds significant roles as a board member of several esteemed organizations, including AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals), AHP (Association for Healthcare Philanthropy), and her local Rotary club.
Wealth Advisor
Scotia Wealth Management
Patrick is a Portfolio Manager and CPA, and helps clients with tax-considered total wealth strategies that align investment, retirement, philanthropic and estate plans.
Patrick holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Simon Fraser University. After completing university, he trained as a Chartered Accountant, and went on to complete CPA Canada’s In-Depth Tax Program. He also holds a Trust and Estate Practitioner designation, is the past-president of the Victoria Estate Planning Council, and is the Will Power Chair for CAGP Vancouver Island.
EVP, Strategic Solutions & Consultancy
Blakely Fundraising
When it comes to building high-value donor relationships, Kimberley’s original thinking is unparalleled. With over 39 years of experience in corporate and not-for-profit leadership, Kimberley is a fundraiser and marketer with a focus on delivering lifetime value and real donor engagement. She is a sought-after speaker on the topics of high value giving, planned giving and trends in the sector.
As EVP at Blakely Inc., she brings vision and leadership to the organization leading on the creation of new products and solutions, facilitated workshops, Blakely’s thought leadership platform – The Exchange Hub – and the delivery of value-add strategic consulting to the sector.
Indigenous Relations Coach/Consultant
Candace Wasacase is a citizen of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation. As an entrepreneur and advocate she has led some of Saskatchewan’s most iconic builds. Recently recognized by the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects for her work on the renewal of Wanuskewin Heritage Park and the development of the Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Center on the U of S campus. She is the past Chair the UNESCO Ready Campaign for Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Indigenous philanthropy is at the heart of her approach and believes in the principles of good relations and reciprocity.
Charitable Gift Planner
For over 20 years, Jill Nelson has helped donors fulfill their philanthropic goals. She is passionate about the benefits of tax-smart giving for donors, to help them do more than they ever imagined. Jill has been Faculty for CAGP on the Original Gift Planning Course, Gift Planning Fundamentals, and Bequest Administration Essentials. She served on the CAGP Board, the CAGP Education Committee, the CAGP Annual Conference Program Committee, and the CAGP Foundation Board. Jill received the “Friend of CAGP Award” in 2014 for involvement and impact on strategic charitable gift planning in Canada, and was honoured with the CAGP GTA Chapter Icon award in 2024.
Jaya Mootoo Consulting
Jaya Mootoo is a detail-oriented, driven professional consultant and speaker, poised with an entrepreneurial flare for seeing potential, identifying opportunities, and reaping results. Jaya is dedicated to equity and inclusion in the fundraising sector, and in society Jaya created a successful, globally recognized fund-raiser: “CRAM-A-CRUISER FOOD DRIVE AND FUNDRAISER”, now implemented numerous police services across Canada and the US.
Jaya has completed both the Event Management Diploma and the Fundraising Management postgraduate certificate programs at Humber College.
With over 20 years in social service and community development, including working with women and children experiencing gender-based violence and volunteering with police services, Jaya continues to advocate against gender-based violence in fundraising.
Partner and CEO
Good Works
Holly Wagg, CFRE leads both the people and business at Good Works – a Canadian fundraising agency that specializes in direct mail, digital and legacy giving for annual donors. She the proud co-author of You Can’t Take It With You: The Art & Science of Legacy Fundraising (2019) and she co-founded the Ten Oaks Project in 2004 for which she was honoured with a lifetime achievement award in the queer community before she cracked 30. She’s a widowed, and re-married, mother of six (two adopted, one bio and three step-children) who you can often find adventuring outdoors or trying to be better at CrossFit, gymnastics and yoga.
Campaign Director, Will Power
CAGP
Laurie has been a die-hard charity sector professional for close to 2 decades, specializing in gift planning at Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation and Plan International Canada. It was there that Laurie discovered the power of strategic giving to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary; and its potential to help meet some of society’s greatest needs. For the past four years Laurie has been working with CAGP to develop and launch the Will Power campaign, Canada’s biggest effort to make leaving a gift in your Will a social norm.
Development Consultant
Peggy Killeen is a multi-decade strategic charitable giving and donor relations expert. Honoured by our community with the “Friend of CAGP” award in 2020, she has served on the board of CAGP and was one of the CAGP Foundation’s founding board members. An experienced development practitioner, her current work includes her role as Development Director for the CAGP Foundation and as Senior Consultant for PGgrowth, Canada’s largest national consulting firm focused on strategic gift planning programs. Her mission is to work with authentic leaders to increase the capacity of their organisations to build and sustain fundraising revenue. Gift planning is her passion and purpose.
Director Client Experience
Good Works
Melanie Scholz, CFRE has more than 14 years of experience in the fundraising sector, conceptualizing and managing innovative direct response campaigns for mail, phone, and digital. Since joining Good Works in 2018, she’s worked with many nonprofit clients to build their legacy giving pipelines, and help them cultivate prospective donors through each stage of their legacy journey.
Melanie holds a Bachelor in Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University, is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Ottawa Chapter, and holds a certificate in Philanthropic Psychology.
Senior Associate, Charitable and Not-For-Profit Law
KPMG Law LLP
Alexandra Tzannidakis practices charity & non-profit, corporate, and tax law. Her practice focuses on creating, maintaining, and dissolving corporations, assisting in tax disputes, advising on governance issues, securing and defending charitable registrations, and helping corporations’ transition to new legislation. Alexandra is dedicated to working closely with her clients to identify their needs and offers practical, effective counsel.
She frequently speaks and writes on topics of interest to charities and non-profit organizations. Her work has appeared in prominent industry publications and Alexandra has also appeared before the Federal Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Digital Fundraiser
Good Works
Marwa El Morsi is a digital fundraising dynamo with a unique twist: a science background that fuels her love for data-driven campaigns! After trading her lab coat for a fundraising cap, her expertise shines through in combining analytical and critical thinking skills to execute integrated, multi-channel campaigns at Good Works. She is a whiz at email fundraising and paid advertising across Facebook, Instagram, Google, and TikTok. When she’s not diving into data or crafting digital copy, she’s an adventurer at heart! Off the clock, you’ll find her outside, skating (or trying to!), or having a blast with a pack of tiny tots.
Lawyer
KPMG Law LLP
Doris Bonora, KC, TEP is an experienced lawyer with a focus on estate planning and administration, litigation, and trusts. She routinely crafts bespoke estate plans that align with her clients’ unique needs, often involving the complex gift planning. Doris is a trusted advisor to high net worth individuals, family offices, banks, and trust companies. She provides guidance on personal and business succession planning, philanthropy, and trust and estate planning. Doris volunteers with many organizations and is an instructor with the University of Alberta. Doris has received many awards including Wealth Management Lawyer of the Year for the Americas.
Partner
Miller Thomson LLP
Nicole D’Aoust is a bilingual lawyer practicing charity and not-for-profit law. She provides advice to organizations on governance, corporate structure, charitable registration, non-profit requirements, CRA regulatory and compliance issues, contracts, operational and financial matters, domestic and international activities, social finance, social enterprise, charitable gifts and receipting, grants, fundraising campaigns, endowments, program and mission-related investments, related business activities, donor advised funds, audits, restructurings, mergers and acquisitions, wind-ups and dissolutions, director and member disputes, advocacy, political activity, anti-spam, lobbying, and privacy.
Nicole is appointed to the federal government’s Technical Issues Working Group as a representative of Imagine Canada. She is a member of the Canadian Bar Association’s Charity and Not-for-Profit Law Executive and is the current Chair of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners’ Government Relations Committee. Nicole is recognized in the prestigious Chambers Canada Guide as an “Up and Coming” charity and not-for-profit lawyer, Best Lawyers Canada, and the Canadian Lexpert Directory.
Managing Partner
Carters Professional Corporation
Terrance S. Carter, B.A., LL.B, TEP, Trademark Agent – Managing Partner of Carters, Mr. Carter practices in the area of charity and not-for-profit law, and is counsel to Fasken on charitable matters. Mr. Carter is a co-author of Corporate and Practice Manual for Charitable and Not-for-Profit Corporations (Thomson Reuters), a co-editor of Charities Legislation and Commentary (LexisNexis, 2025), and co-author of Branding and Copyright for Charities and Non-Profit Organizations (2019 LexisNexis). He is recognized as a leading expert by Lexpert, The Best Lawyers in Canada and Chambers and Partners. Mr. Carter is a former member of CRA Advisory Committee on the Charitable Sector, and is a Past Chair of the Canadian Bar Association and Ontario Bar Association Charities and Not-for-Profit Law Sections.
Vice President, Par Pricing & Special Initiatives, Insurance Solutions
Canada Life
Vikram Malik is Vice President, Par Pricing & Special Initiatives in Insurance Solutions at Canada Life.
He is responsible for product development and pricing for participating life insurance and leading a range of insurance-wide initiatives focused on innovation, product and pricing.
Vikram has over 15 years of diverse insurance experience with markets in Canada, US and Asia. Prior to joining Canada Life, Vikram worked at two other major insurers in the Canadian industry working in a variety of leadership roles across both individual and group businesses.
Vikram holds a Bachelor of Mathematics, Actuarial Science from the University of Waterloo. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries.
Senior Manager Estate Administration
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
Patricia Ward is the Senior Manager Estate Administration for Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. She is passionate estate administration and strives to learn and understand all aspects of the area to ensure donors wishes are fulfilled. Working in the charitable sector on a national level has provided many opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Patricia is a member of CAGP GTA Branch.
Partner
Field Law
Malkit Atwal is a Partner at Field Law in Edmonton, Alberta and leads the firm’s Wills, Estates and Trusts practice group. Malkit’s practice is focused on estate planning, estate administration, estate litigation and adult guardianship and trusteeship matters. Malkit also regularly acts as a mediator in estate disputes and holds a Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Management from Harvard Law School.
Malkit and has been involved in numerous Court hearings involving claims made against or by an estate, including family maintenance and support claims, variation of trusts, removal of trustees, will challenges, and estate accounting applications.
Director, Granting & Philanthropy
Benefaction Foundation
Joely joined the Benefaction team full-time in September 2020 after finishing an MSc at Bayes Business School, in the U.K., with Distinction. Her research project focused on how small charities can use technology to adapt to COVID-19. She was previously involved with Benefaction for over three years working part-time as Grants Administrator while completing her BA at McGill University. In her current role, Joely is responsible for overseeing all of Benefaction’s granting to charities and qualified donees across the country. She is a Communications Volunteer of the CAGP GTA Chapter.
Vice President, Philanthropic Advisory Services
TD Wealth
Jo-Anne works with clients to develop strategies that incorporate philanthropy in their overall financial and estate plans. She is the architect and Executive Director of the Private Giving Foundation, the first donor advised fund to be launched by a financial institution in Canada.
Jo-Anne is a member of the Board of the Board for Bishops University Foundation and a member of the advisory board at Carleton University for its Masters in Philanthropy and Non-profit Leadership program – the only one of its kind in Canada.
Manager, Estate Administration & Legal Services
Sick Kids Foundation
Liana manages all estate administration activities, including stewarding families and supporting estate litigation matters, at SickKids Foundation since 2022. Liana is part of the legal team and works closely with her estate planning colleagues by collaborating on potential concerns that may arise with donors leaving a legacy gift. Prior to joining SickKids Foundation, she worked as a law clerk and legal assistant for many years at some of the larger Toronto firms with a focus on estate planning and estate administration. Liana’s background in law and social work compels her interest and passion within estates and charitable giving.
Planned Giving Consultant
The Donor Motivation Program©
For over 20 years Rich Widdifield has provided business owners, hockey professionals and families with whom he works, an opportunity to achieve financial security, reduce taxes, and guidance with their charitable giving objectives. In Rich’s own words his primary objective is, “Helping families take control of the areas of their lives that truly matter to them”. This includes specific tools and strategies to multiply their impact and leave a lasting legacy for those causes that are deeply meaningful
to them.
As an active member of the community, Rich has volunteered for the Union Gospel Mission, the Vancouver Marathon, and Power To Be, the latter a charity dedicated to empowering, through nature based adventures, those members of our society living with a barrier or disability. Rich and his wife, Andrea, also believe strongly in giving back, have set up their own family foundation and spearheading fundraisers to support charities within their community. Richard is also an active member of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners and a sought after public speaker across
the country.
Head of Philanthropic Advisory Services
Assante Private Client
In 2009, Serena Hak began her career in the philanthropic sector working with youth to help them better understand the importance of social consciousness. Today, she is the Executive Director & Partner of The Donor Motivation Program®, a Senior Associate at CI Private Wealth, and the Head of Philanthropic Services for Assante Wealth Management.
Serena is committed to helping Canadians better integrate their generosity goals with their wealth.
Serena is a frequent national speaker, educator, and author on charitable giving. She has been featured in publications such as the Globe and Mail and the National Post and sits on numerous boards including the Canadian Association of Gift Planners and Benefaction Foundation. Serena attended Western University and holds the Master Financial Adviser – Philanthropy (MFA-P™) designation. Serena is truly passionate about breaking down the barriers and bridging the gaps between the for-profit and non-profit sectors.
Partner
Miller Thomson LLP
Michael practices exclusively with the social impact sector, including charities, not-for-profit organizations, associations, clubs, and social enterprises. He has more than 15 years’ experience advising on regulatory compliance, governance, restructuring, complex gift planning, fundraising and revenue generation, and commercial transactions. He regularly helps new organizations on structure and registration, and represents charities and non-profits in dealings with provincial and federal regulators. Michael is a registered parliamentarian, providing practical advice and assistance to organizations with complex or contentious meetings. Michael presents and speaks regularly on topics relevant to the social impact sector.
Director, Par Sales Strategies, Insurance Sales Enablement
Canada Life
For more than a decade, Evan has worked in a variety of estate planning roles with Canada Life.
Currently, he and his team create innovative insurance tools to support insurance advisors across Canada in having important financial, estate and legacy planning conversations with clients.
Evan played an integral role in the development and launch of a unique insurance offering in the Canadian philanthropic sector. Canada Life’s My Par Gift is the first life insurance solution designed to meet the needs of the charitable sector in Canada.
Managing Partner
Advisory Money Strategies Inc
Sisi (He/Him) is a Financial Planner & Master Financial Advisor in Philanthropy . He has been in the Industry for 23 years and runs a boutique Financial Planning firm in Mississauga, Ontario. He is very passionate about Philanthropy and Charitable Giving . Sisi’s goal is to work with most Charities /Donors in the area of Strategic Planned Giving and engaging the next generation of Donors.
With a commitment to Planned Giving, Sisi & his Company, AM Strategies, have launched a co-branded Charitable Life Insurance product, in 2024 to assist in amplifying Giving & make Giving Simple for All.
He is a member of Estate Planning Council of Canada, Mississauga Foundation, Conference for Advanced Life Underwriters, Canadian Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies, Canadian Association of Gift Planners & Planned Giving Committee of the Humber River Health Foundation.
With over two decades of diverse experience in the Financial Services sector, Jay Morrow has built a career that blends expertise with a deep commitment to client and community well-being. Throughout his journey, Jay has held various sales and leadership roles with prominent financial institutions across Canada, including Scotiabank, Investors Group, Manulife, and Sun Life. Along the way he has gained extensive insights into a wide spectrum of financial services and strategic client solutions.
Serenia Life’s unique emphasis on charitable giving resonates with Jay’s personal values, making this role a natural continuation of his career-long dedication to creating positive impact. For Jay, this commitment goes beyond the professional—it’s a deeply personal mission to enrich and uplift the communities he serves.
Jennifer Button manages the foundation management group accountable for the Donor Advised Fund programs offered through the Charitable Gift Funds Canada Foundation (Gift Funds Canada / GFC). She is responsible for the suitability evaluation of in-kind gifts offered to GFC, and for giving advice and guidance to RBC advisors and donors on the use and application of DAFs.
Jennifer has a deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape and charitable sector in Canada. She brings more than 20 years of experience in strategic philanthropy, connecting high-and ultra-high-net-worth donors and families to causes they care about, and building philanthropic plans that balance personal, family and tax considerations. Prior to joining RBC, she worked in different areas across the not-for-profit sector, including in education, amateur sport, health care and international development.
Jennifer holds a Master Financial Advisor – Philanthropy (MFA-P) designation, and is a member of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners.
Russell James, J.D., Ph.D., CFP® is a chaired professor in the School of Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the on-campus and online graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving).
He is the author of several books including The Storytelling Fundraiser, The Epic Fundraiser, The Primal Fundraiser, The Socratic Fundraiser, Inside the Mind of the Bequest Donor, and Visual Planned Giving.
Dr. James worked as the Director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri for 6 years and later served as president of the college completing two major capital campaigns and more than tripling enrollment.
Michelle Okere is a Métis-Cree leader dedicated to community empowerment and social change. As the Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, she focuses on fostering economic growth and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs. With a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation, Michelle has driven growth in various organizations, emphasizing inclusive environments through her expertise in fundraising, advocacy, and strategic planning.
Currently pursuing an Executive MBA in the Indigenous Business Leadership Program at the Beedie School of Business, she is committed to continuous learning and empowering Indigenous communities.
She has held impactful roles, including former CEO of the Compassion House Foundation and co-founder of the REET Institute, which promotes equity and diversity in commercial real estate through programs for BIPOC youth. Additionally, she serves as Chair of PolicyWise for Children & Families, Chair of the Truth & Reconciliation Committee for YWCA Edmonton and is a member of the University of Alberta Senate.
Recognized with awards such as Edify Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, Michelle currently represents Canada at the G20 YEA Summit in Brazil. Her passion for equity, diversity, and community empowerment drives her commitment to creating meaningful change on a global scale.
Duke Chang brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in financial services, and technology, transforming businesses through innovation. Most recently, Duke built and scaled a broad solution portfolio to support Lenovo’s $3 billion business, and helped champion critical innovations at Fidelity Investments including charitable giving, student loans and the gig economy. He is also a co-founder of Act 3 Reality, an education technology company helping children with autism and other social and learning challenges using virtual reality. He holds an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and a Bachelor of Science from Georgetown University.
Lisa is one of three owners of the Pacific Investment Corporation, a family-owned real estate holdings and investment company, where she has several governance roles. She also leads the family’s private foundation, the Vancouver-based Wolverton Foundation, which is dedicated to elevating exposure to the arts and facilitating artistic programs for children who would otherwise be excluded from these opportunities. The foundation has provided a permanent home for The Sarah McLachlan School of Music, its primary grantee partner, for over ten years.
In addition to the family’s business, Lisa is the President of Forward Global Canada, leading Canadian membership development for its parent organization, Forward Global, a community of 400 global philanthropic funders tackling today’s biggest problems through learning, community and action.
From 2021 to 2023 Lisa was a member of the Council of Advocates for the Freedom Fund, a global fund whose sole aim is ending slavery and exploitation. She is also a former member of the President’s Council of the International Crisis Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and resolving deadly conflict.
A passionate advocate for youth, Lisa has worked for many years to improve the lives of children in Canada. She has served on the Board of Directors of UNICEF Canada, the Board of Directors of Family Services of the North Shore and was a mentor for the Loran Scholarship Foundation of Canada. Recently, Lisa was awarded a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from Capilano University, located in North Vancouver. Lisa is the mother of three wonderful daughters.
Bob Wyatt is the long-serving executive director of The Muttart Foundation. For much of his career, he has been involved in regulatory issues, and working with organizations to boost the capacity of the sector. For his work, he has received an honourary doctorate from Carleton University and has been named a member of the Order of Canada.
Marjorie Bencz began as a volunteer with Edmonton’s Food Bank in 1987, and in 1989, she become the organization’s Executive Director. Dedicated to supporting Canadians experiencing food insecurity, she currently services on the board of directors at Food Banks Canada. Her dedication and impact has been widely recognized, having been the recipient of the Order of Canada in 2006, the recipient of the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in 2012, and in 2015, she was inducted into the City of Edmonton’s Hall of Fame. In 2021, Marjorie received the Lifetime Achievement award from Food Banks Alberta.
