Tuesday, March 3 thru
Friday, March 6, 2026
Sheraton & Le Méridien Charlotte
Whether you are a communications professional, manage communications with volunteers, or simply need to incorporate communications as a part of your role, communication is part of your responsibility. From professional communications support to nimble, practical tactics you can use on the fly, this Smart Start will help you approach church communications with purpose, creativity, and efficiency.
Through podcasts and newsletters, public messaging, events, simple graphics, and more, we’ll explore how effective, strategic communication builds connection and fosters community. We’ll take a holistic look at integrating communications into your ministry with intentionality.
You’ll also be introduced to valuable resources from Episcopal Communicators, including the upcoming Communications Certificate—developed in partnership with several Episcopal seminaries—as well as opportunities to connect in-person and virtually at CommsCon conferences.
Join us to be inspired, equipped, and supported in the ministry of church communications—because telling the story is everyone’s job.
Speakers:
Coming soon!
Imagine an endowment that doesn’t just sit quietly in the background but actively fuels your parish’s mission—expanding and energizing ministry and sustaining vibrant community life for generations to come. A strong endowment can do more than support a budget line—it can change what’s possible for your church’s future.
Whether you’re managing an established endowment, planning for your first, or reshaping structure and governance for greater impact, this workshop will equip you with the tools, strategies, and vision to unlock the full potential of long-term resources for ministry.
Join us for an invigorating conversation about best practices in the mission-driven management of endowments. You’ll hear from leading endowment and investment experts, engage in real-time Q&A, and learn alongside clergy, lay leaders, and endowment trustees from across the country. Together we’ll share wisdom, tackle challenges, and uncover creative ideas you can bring home to fuel bold ministry and faithful witness well into the future.
Join us to be inspired, equipped, and energized in stewarding endowments—because faithful leadership today ensures a vibrant witness tomorrow.
Presenters:
Sonia Kowal, President, Zevin Asset Management
Rebecca Lilly, Vice President, Morgan Stanley
Anne Richardson, Senior Director, Endowment Management, Episcopal Church Foundation
Carsten Sierck, Executive Director, Endowment Management, Episcopal Church Foundation
Whether you’re new to stewardship or looking to refine your congregation’s approach, our Smart Start will equip you with actionable strategies and trusted tools to grow generosity in your parish—no matter the size or setting.
This session features three dynamic components designed to inspire and inform your stewardship efforts:
There will also be time for open Q&A, so bring your questions—even those outside the three main topics.
Join us for inspiration, encouragement, and practical tools – because generosity starts with a bold vision and faithful, inclusive leadership.
Speakers:
Natalie Akin, Director of Generosity & Stewardship, Christ Church, Charlotte
Catherine Beemer, Director of Parish Giving, St. George’s Episcopal Church, Nashville
The Rev. Canon George Maxwell, Jr., Vicar, Cathedral of St. Philip, Atlanta
Joe Park, CEO & Principal, Horizons Stewardship, Dallas, TX
David Rocchio, Director of Stewardship & Gift Planning, Cathedral of St. Philip, Atlanta
Make your plans today to join us in Charlotte for a joyful and hopeful experience together!
Download Your Annual Conference Agenda: