Descriptions and Learning Tracks
This page includes complete descriptions for all breakout sessions by scheduled time slot.
Breakout sessions are organized into five learning tracks to help you easily find sessions that match your interests and goals.
Click here for an overview of the learning tracks and sessions included within each track.
For presenter bios, click here.
Breakout sessions are organized into five learning tracks to help you easily find sessions that match your interests and goals.
Click here for an overview of the learning tracks and sessions included within each track.
For presenter bios, click here.
Schedule
Breakout sessions take place across six time slots on Monday, June 29 and Tuesday, June 30. All sessions will take place on the 3rd floor of the Hilton Cleveland Downtown, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis (while space allows).
Monday, June 29, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Presenter: Amanda Muhammad, Founder, Mako Mindfulness
Session Description: Let’s be honest. Most of us know we should be more active on LinkedIn but knowing and doing are two different things. This session offers a clear starting point. Learn ways to strengthen both your council’s brand and your own presence on the platform, from building a profile that reflects your work to sharing content people want to engage with. Learn ways to use LinkedIn more intentionally, grow meaningful connections, and support your mission through consistent, authentic activity. Whether you’re new to the platform or feeling stuck after years of use, this session provides tools and guidance that can be put to work right away.
Session Description: Let’s be honest. Most of us know we should be more active on LinkedIn but knowing and doing are two different things. This session offers a clear starting point. Learn ways to strengthen both your council’s brand and your own presence on the platform, from building a profile that reflects your work to sharing content people want to engage with. Learn ways to use LinkedIn more intentionally, grow meaningful connections, and support your mission through consistent, authentic activity. Whether you’re new to the platform or feeling stuck after years of use, this session provides tools and guidance that can be put to work right away.
Presenter: Nicole Lowery, Director of Council Development – Southern Region, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Are you deeply committed to the mission, yet feel a knot in your stomach when it’s time to ask for support? Designed for council leaders and board members who want to feel more confident and capable in fundraising, this session addresses the common barriers that can make asking for financial support uncomfortable. Together, we’ll reframe fundraising as an invitation to participate in meaningful work and explore practical strategies that help asking feel more natural, authentic, and effective. You’ll gain tools to approach donor conversations with greater clarity, confidence, and connection as you invite others to support the mission of Girls on the Run.
Session Description: Are you deeply committed to the mission, yet feel a knot in your stomach when it’s time to ask for support? Designed for council leaders and board members who want to feel more confident and capable in fundraising, this session addresses the common barriers that can make asking for financial support uncomfortable. Together, we’ll reframe fundraising as an invitation to participate in meaningful work and explore practical strategies that help asking feel more natural, authentic, and effective. You’ll gain tools to approach donor conversations with greater clarity, confidence, and connection as you invite others to support the mission of Girls on the Run.
Presenters:
Session Description: Join us for an interactive session with insurance broker Palmer & Cay designed to help councils confidently navigate risk management. Together, we will explore the concepts of risk tolerance and risk profile, and how these factors influence decision-making. Attendees will learn practical steps to identify and assess potential areas of risk and when insurance coverage can help minimize these risks. Walking through real-world examples will put a practical lens on the discussion. We’ll also take a deeper dive into optional insurance coverages, equipping you to make informed choices to further mitigate risk and invest your insurance dollars where they matter most.
- Laura Falanga, Senior Client Advisor, Palmer & Cay
- Taylor Osteen, Associate Client Advisor, Palmer & Cay
Session Description: Join us for an interactive session with insurance broker Palmer & Cay designed to help councils confidently navigate risk management. Together, we will explore the concepts of risk tolerance and risk profile, and how these factors influence decision-making. Attendees will learn practical steps to identify and assess potential areas of risk and when insurance coverage can help minimize these risks. Walking through real-world examples will put a practical lens on the discussion. We’ll also take a deeper dive into optional insurance coverages, equipping you to make informed choices to further mitigate risk and invest your insurance dollars where they matter most.
Involving Young People in Positive Change
Presenter: Keely Quinn, VP of Programming & Impact, DoSomething
Session Description: Young people have the passion and power to create real change. This session explores how councils can tap into that energy through meaningful youth and young adult leadership volunteer opportunities and contributions. Learn what motivates youth and young adults to get involved, how to engage them in GOTR opportunities in impactful ways, and how their involvement can strengthen both individual development and the council’s work. You’ll leave with practical strategies for engaging young people in volunteerism that build leadership skills while advancing the GOTR mission.
Session Description: Young people have the passion and power to create real change. This session explores how councils can tap into that energy through meaningful youth and young adult leadership volunteer opportunities and contributions. Learn what motivates youth and young adults to get involved, how to engage them in GOTR opportunities in impactful ways, and how their involvement can strengthen both individual development and the council’s work. You’ll leave with practical strategies for engaging young people in volunteerism that build leadership skills while advancing the GOTR mission.
Oops to Awesome: Celebrating the power of mistakes
Presenter: Katie Corda, Vice President of Programming, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: This session is designed as a live demonstration of a complete, facilitation-ready workshop that councils can use in their communities or at local conferences to bring the research-based design and impact of the Girls on the Run program to life for others. In this session, our impact is explored through one essential mindset shift: how we understand and respond to mistakes. Mistakes aren’t just inevitable; they’re essential for learning and growth. Yet, most of us hesitate to acknowledge them, let alone celebrate them! Research shows that when we shift our mindset and embrace mistakes, we unlock higher levels of connection, problem-solving, and resilience. Learning to lean into mistakes helps youth—and adults alike—take risks, do hard things, and learn out loud. Attendees will experience how this session models core Girls on the Run best practices in action, from research-informed design to intentional, mindset-shifting facilitation. Councils will leave equipped to use this session to share the power of our programming, spark meaningful conversations in their communities, and serve as confident ambassadors for Girls on the Run.
Session Description: This session is designed as a live demonstration of a complete, facilitation-ready workshop that councils can use in their communities or at local conferences to bring the research-based design and impact of the Girls on the Run program to life for others. In this session, our impact is explored through one essential mindset shift: how we understand and respond to mistakes. Mistakes aren’t just inevitable; they’re essential for learning and growth. Yet, most of us hesitate to acknowledge them, let alone celebrate them! Research shows that when we shift our mindset and embrace mistakes, we unlock higher levels of connection, problem-solving, and resilience. Learning to lean into mistakes helps youth—and adults alike—take risks, do hard things, and learn out loud. Attendees will experience how this session models core Girls on the Run best practices in action, from research-informed design to intentional, mindset-shifting facilitation. Councils will leave equipped to use this session to share the power of our programming, spark meaningful conversations in their communities, and serve as confident ambassadors for Girls on the Run.
Monday, June 29, 1:45 PM - 3:00 PM
Presenter: Carley Fuller, Council Director, Girls on the Run South Louisiana
Session Description: Growth often requires change, and knowing what the next chapter should look like can feel uncertain. This session is designed for leaders at all stages of development who want to find new possibilities for expanding impact and thoughtful, strategic ways to move forward.
Taking a broader lens, we’ll explore how to pause, reassess, and build with intention. Attendees will learn how adopting a growth mindset can support clearer decision-making, practical planning, and renewed momentum. You’ll leave with tools, perspective, and actionable next steps to help your council move from reflection to purposeful progress in strengthening your reach and deepening your mission impact.
Session Description: Growth often requires change, and knowing what the next chapter should look like can feel uncertain. This session is designed for leaders at all stages of development who want to find new possibilities for expanding impact and thoughtful, strategic ways to move forward.
Taking a broader lens, we’ll explore how to pause, reassess, and build with intention. Attendees will learn how adopting a growth mindset can support clearer decision-making, practical planning, and renewed momentum. You’ll leave with tools, perspective, and actionable next steps to help your council move from reflection to purposeful progress in strengthening your reach and deepening your mission impact.
Presenters:
Session Description: Operating across a large and geographically diverse territory brings unique challenges, from maintaining consistent program quality to staying meaningfully connected with communities spread far apart. This session offers grounded, experience-based insights on how to manage growth, align teams and systems, and foster strong local engagement across a wide footprint. We’ll explore proven approaches to delivering high-quality programming at scale, streamlining operations, and cultivating the supporters and funding needed to sustain long-term impact. Attendees will return home with practical strategies to help navigate the complexity of scale while keeping connection and quality at the center.
- Jennifer Bartkowski, Chief Executive Officer, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas
- Ashley Crowe, Chief Mission Delivery Officer, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas
Session Description: Operating across a large and geographically diverse territory brings unique challenges, from maintaining consistent program quality to staying meaningfully connected with communities spread far apart. This session offers grounded, experience-based insights on how to manage growth, align teams and systems, and foster strong local engagement across a wide footprint. We’ll explore proven approaches to delivering high-quality programming at scale, streamlining operations, and cultivating the supporters and funding needed to sustain long-term impact. Attendees will return home with practical strategies to help navigate the complexity of scale while keeping connection and quality at the center.
Presenters:
Session Description: Join the Lakeshore Foundation team—leaders in disability inclusion and a U.S. Olympic & Paralympic training site—for a practical, engaging session to dive deeper into strengthening your inclusive practices already happening within Girls on the Run.
This session will take a meaningful, real-world look at disability inclusion, including an overview of key inclusion domains, review of respectful terminology, adapted activities, and specific considerations for girls with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Attendees will explore how universal design practices can be integrated into their programs so that all girls feel welcomed, empowered, and supported. You will leave with new strategies and renewed confidence to elevate your inclusion efforts.
- Kelly Bonner, Director of Sports Science and Performance Center, Lakeshore Foundation
- Allison Tubbs, Director of Community Health, Lakeshore Foundation
Session Description: Join the Lakeshore Foundation team—leaders in disability inclusion and a U.S. Olympic & Paralympic training site—for a practical, engaging session to dive deeper into strengthening your inclusive practices already happening within Girls on the Run.
This session will take a meaningful, real-world look at disability inclusion, including an overview of key inclusion domains, review of respectful terminology, adapted activities, and specific considerations for girls with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Attendees will explore how universal design practices can be integrated into their programs so that all girls feel welcomed, empowered, and supported. You will leave with new strategies and renewed confidence to elevate your inclusion efforts.
The Digital Marketing Glow-up: Building a stronger council presence online
Presenter: Alyssa Drown, Director of Digital Marketing, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: A strong digital marketing strategy can be a game-changer for expanding council visibility, deepening community connections, and helping more girls access Girls on the Run programming. In this session, you’ll learn how to build a comprehensive plan that strengthens your online presence and helps the right people find you, connect with you, and take meaningful action in support of your work. We'll dive into tools like Google Analytics and UTMs to help you track performance and make confident, data-informed decisions. We’ll also explore how to leverage AI to work smarter, use email marketing more strategically, and apply social media best practices to grow awareness and engagement. Join us for actionable insights and practical strategies to elevate your council’s digital presence, connect more effectively and intentionally with your audiences, and expand the impact of the GOTR mission in your community.
Session Description: A strong digital marketing strategy can be a game-changer for expanding council visibility, deepening community connections, and helping more girls access Girls on the Run programming. In this session, you’ll learn how to build a comprehensive plan that strengthens your online presence and helps the right people find you, connect with you, and take meaningful action in support of your work. We'll dive into tools like Google Analytics and UTMs to help you track performance and make confident, data-informed decisions. We’ll also explore how to leverage AI to work smarter, use email marketing more strategically, and apply social media best practices to grow awareness and engagement. Join us for actionable insights and practical strategies to elevate your council’s digital presence, connect more effectively and intentionally with your audiences, and expand the impact of the GOTR mission in your community.
powerful alliances: expanding access through parks & rec
Presenters:
Session Description: Discover how Girls on the Run councils can unlock new opportunities and expand community reach through strategic alliances with local parks and recreation agencies. In this session, experts from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) will share NRPA’s youth sports framework, practical steps for building strong alliances with local agencies, and illuminating research specific to gender equity in sports opportunities. We’ll also explore a case study that spotlights how a GOTR council successfully collaborated with a local parks and recreation agency to expand access and meet community needs. You’ll leave the session with ready-to-use strategies, data insights, and alliance examples to help your council develop relationships with parks and recreation agencies in your community.
- Maureen Neumann, Sr Program Officer, National Recreation and Park Association
- Dianne Palladino, Director of Research and Evaluation, National Recreation and Park Association
Session Description: Discover how Girls on the Run councils can unlock new opportunities and expand community reach through strategic alliances with local parks and recreation agencies. In this session, experts from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) will share NRPA’s youth sports framework, practical steps for building strong alliances with local agencies, and illuminating research specific to gender equity in sports opportunities. We’ll also explore a case study that spotlights how a GOTR council successfully collaborated with a local parks and recreation agency to expand access and meet community needs. You’ll leave the session with ready-to-use strategies, data insights, and alliance examples to help your council develop relationships with parks and recreation agencies in your community.
Monday, June 29, 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM
Presenter: Amanda Muhammad, Founder, Mako Mindfulness
Session Description: Stress is inevitable. How we experience, manage, and respond to it shapes our focus, communication, and overall well-being. In fast-paced work environments like ours, stress can build quickly and take a toll. This interactive session introduces evidence-based strategies to help recognize how stress shows up in the mind and body, along with simple, practical techniques to reset and recover in the moment. We will explore science-backed tools that support calm, clarity, and confidence under pressure. Attendees will leave better equipped to navigate everyday stress in ways that support both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.
Session Description: Stress is inevitable. How we experience, manage, and respond to it shapes our focus, communication, and overall well-being. In fast-paced work environments like ours, stress can build quickly and take a toll. This interactive session introduces evidence-based strategies to help recognize how stress shows up in the mind and body, along with simple, practical techniques to reset and recover in the moment. We will explore science-backed tools that support calm, clarity, and confidence under pressure. Attendees will leave better equipped to navigate everyday stress in ways that support both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.
Presenter: Jackie O’Hara, BoardSource Certified Nonprofit Board Consultant and Senior Director of Council Development – Eastern Region, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: When board engagement is limited or hard to sustain, even strong councils can lose momentum. This session focuses on how to attract committed board members, set them up for success from the start, and build ongoing engagement that deepens connection to the mission and the Girls on the Run movement. Explore proven approaches to recruitment, onboarding, and connection that keep board members energized, aligned, and invested in the work. You will leave this session with clear guidance and tools to support board effectiveness at every stage, from early recruitment through long-term service.
Session Description: When board engagement is limited or hard to sustain, even strong councils can lose momentum. This session focuses on how to attract committed board members, set them up for success from the start, and build ongoing engagement that deepens connection to the mission and the Girls on the Run movement. Explore proven approaches to recruitment, onboarding, and connection that keep board members energized, aligned, and invested in the work. You will leave this session with clear guidance and tools to support board effectiveness at every stage, from early recruitment through long-term service.
Presenter: Katie Lutz, Director of Content and Communications, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Marketing is more than promotion—it’s how we tell our story, build trust, and inspire communities to advance the Girls on the Run mission. When done intentionally, marketing is a powerful tool for shaping how your council is seen, valued, and supported. This session will explore how to develop compelling strategies that strengthen relationships and expand reach. Discover how to identify the most effective channels for your community, overcome common challenges, and use authentic storytelling to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. You'll also gain practical insights into leveraging media opportunities, elevating your visibility, and positioning your council as a trusted community leader. Attendees will leave this session with fresh ideas and actionable strategies to amplify your impact through marketing that truly matters.
Session Description: Marketing is more than promotion—it’s how we tell our story, build trust, and inspire communities to advance the Girls on the Run mission. When done intentionally, marketing is a powerful tool for shaping how your council is seen, valued, and supported. This session will explore how to develop compelling strategies that strengthen relationships and expand reach. Discover how to identify the most effective channels for your community, overcome common challenges, and use authentic storytelling to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. You'll also gain practical insights into leveraging media opportunities, elevating your visibility, and positioning your council as a trusted community leader. Attendees will leave this session with fresh ideas and actionable strategies to amplify your impact through marketing that truly matters.
Creating Inclusive 5K experiences for all abilities
Presenters:
Session Description: The Girls on the Run 5K gives participants a tangible sense of accomplishment and the confidence to be the authors of their own stories. That’s why it is essential that our 5K events are intentionally designed to be welcoming and accessible to participants of all abilities. In this council-to-council session, Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati shares how they identified accessibility gaps in their 5K event experience and transformed event planning to ensure every participant can fully and comfortably take part in the celebration. Learn about key accessibility features they implemented, including sensory-friendly spaces, adaptive equipment, visual guides, and meaningful community partnerships, that have made their 5Ks more accessible to all. Attendees will gain practical strategies for integrating accessibility into course design, communication, volunteer training, and on-site accommodations. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas to create more inclusive, empowering 5K experiences for all participants and their families.
- Annie Horn, Executive Director, Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati
- Maria Kretchik, 5K Volunteer Coordinator & Grant Writer, Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati
Session Description: The Girls on the Run 5K gives participants a tangible sense of accomplishment and the confidence to be the authors of their own stories. That’s why it is essential that our 5K events are intentionally designed to be welcoming and accessible to participants of all abilities. In this council-to-council session, Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati shares how they identified accessibility gaps in their 5K event experience and transformed event planning to ensure every participant can fully and comfortably take part in the celebration. Learn about key accessibility features they implemented, including sensory-friendly spaces, adaptive equipment, visual guides, and meaningful community partnerships, that have made their 5Ks more accessible to all. Attendees will gain practical strategies for integrating accessibility into course design, communication, volunteer training, and on-site accommodations. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas to create more inclusive, empowering 5K experiences for all participants and their families.
using mission advancement markers for measurable impact
Presenter: April Massett, VP of Council Development, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Mission Advancement Markers (MAMs) are designed to help councils understand what’s working, where to focus, and how to plan for and measure progress over time.
In this session, we’ll walk through the updated MAMs and unpack what the indicators and targets really mean. We’ll focus on why these measures matter, how they connect to growth and sustainability, and how to interpret your data in a way that informs decisions.
You’ll see examples of how councils can use MAMs to assess performance, identify opportunities, and shape priorities, and leave with a clear understanding of the updated MAMs and practical ways to use them to guide your council’s planning and day-to-day work.
Session Description: Mission Advancement Markers (MAMs) are designed to help councils understand what’s working, where to focus, and how to plan for and measure progress over time.
In this session, we’ll walk through the updated MAMs and unpack what the indicators and targets really mean. We’ll focus on why these measures matter, how they connect to growth and sustainability, and how to interpret your data in a way that informs decisions.
You’ll see examples of how councils can use MAMs to assess performance, identify opportunities, and shape priorities, and leave with a clear understanding of the updated MAMs and practical ways to use them to guide your council’s planning and day-to-day work.
Tuesday, June 30, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
cultivating campus champions for gotr
Presenter: JP Abercrumbie, Executive Associate Athletics Director - Culture, Engagement, & Civic Innovation, University of Notre Dame
Session Description: Colleges and universities offer a vast network of volunteers, partners, and resources that councils can tap into in meaningful ways. This session explores creative and effective ways to engage campus communities to grow volunteer capacity, support program delivery, and deepen community impact.
You will gain practical strategies for recruiting mission-driven students, activating university resources, and creating mutually beneficial collaborations. We’ll cover how to connect with service-learning offices, academic programs, athletics, and student organizations; how to cultivate internships and leadership opportunities that support both student growth and council goals; and how to build long-term relationships that align with institutional priorities. By the end of this session, you’ll be equipped and inspired to engage your local colleges and universities in impactful new ways.
Session Description: Colleges and universities offer a vast network of volunteers, partners, and resources that councils can tap into in meaningful ways. This session explores creative and effective ways to engage campus communities to grow volunteer capacity, support program delivery, and deepen community impact.
You will gain practical strategies for recruiting mission-driven students, activating university resources, and creating mutually beneficial collaborations. We’ll cover how to connect with service-learning offices, academic programs, athletics, and student organizations; how to cultivate internships and leadership opportunities that support both student growth and council goals; and how to build long-term relationships that align with institutional priorities. By the end of this session, you’ll be equipped and inspired to engage your local colleges and universities in impactful new ways.
Presenters:
Session Description: While one-time sponsorships can provide valuable short-term support, long-term partners offer the stability needed to grow mission impact year after year. This council-to-council session focuses on how to move beyond transactional sponsorships and build relationships that continue over time. Panelists will share approaches to identifying potential partners, communicating impact, and stewarding relationships that encourage ongoing commitment. This session highlights strategies for outreach and engagement that can help sponsors maintain a strong connection year after year, fostering community partnerships and sustainable revenue streams.
- Andrea Gomes Morrison, Executive Director, Girls on the Run Puget Sound
- Lauren Leavine, Executive Director, Girls on the Run Greater Tampa Bay
- Ruth Roeber, Development Director, Girls on the Run Michiana
- Nicole Lowery, Director of Council Development – Southern Region, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: While one-time sponsorships can provide valuable short-term support, long-term partners offer the stability needed to grow mission impact year after year. This council-to-council session focuses on how to move beyond transactional sponsorships and build relationships that continue over time. Panelists will share approaches to identifying potential partners, communicating impact, and stewarding relationships that encourage ongoing commitment. This session highlights strategies for outreach and engagement that can help sponsors maintain a strong connection year after year, fostering community partnerships and sustainable revenue streams.
Tools and best practices for behavior support
Presenter: Katie Corda, Vice President of Programming, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Supporting girls’ social, emotional, and behavioral growth is at the heart of our mission, including guiding them through behavior challenges with compassion and consistency. This interactive, workshop-based training offers the opportunity to build practical skills that are grounded in trauma-informed practices for responding to participant behavior in ways that foster development and connection. Through scenarios, hands-on practice, and collaborative discussion, participants will explore effective approaches and share solutions. We will also review recently released behavior support resources and discuss how to apply them to strengthen proactive, developmentally informed support for participants, families, and coaches.
Session Description: Supporting girls’ social, emotional, and behavioral growth is at the heart of our mission, including guiding them through behavior challenges with compassion and consistency. This interactive, workshop-based training offers the opportunity to build practical skills that are grounded in trauma-informed practices for responding to participant behavior in ways that foster development and connection. Through scenarios, hands-on practice, and collaborative discussion, participants will explore effective approaches and share solutions. We will also review recently released behavior support resources and discuss how to apply them to strengthen proactive, developmentally informed support for participants, families, and coaches.
the band advantage: organize, connect, and communicate smarter
Presenters:
- Nuri Won, Senior Content Marketing Specialist, BAND
- Liz Wian, Chief Development Officer, Girls on the Run HQ
serving rural communities
Presenters:
Session Description: Reaching and engaging rural communities requires a thoughtful, relationship-centered approach. This session explores the unique strengths and challenges in rural areas, along with outreach strategies that support access and participation. Drawing on Suzan’s deep knowledge of the health and recreation landscape in rural communities, this session explores what connection, visibility, and trust look like on the ground. Her experience running across the American Discovery Trail further informs the insights and examples shared. Attendees will learn how to build authentic relationships, adapt engagement efforts to local context, and apply approaches that support sustainable growth and impact.
- Suzan Brydon, Managing Director of Operations, Express Scripts
- Christie Wilson, Director of Council Development - Western Region, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Reaching and engaging rural communities requires a thoughtful, relationship-centered approach. This session explores the unique strengths and challenges in rural areas, along with outreach strategies that support access and participation. Drawing on Suzan’s deep knowledge of the health and recreation landscape in rural communities, this session explores what connection, visibility, and trust look like on the ground. Her experience running across the American Discovery Trail further informs the insights and examples shared. Attendees will learn how to build authentic relationships, adapt engagement efforts to local context, and apply approaches that support sustainable growth and impact.
Tuesday, June 30, 1:15 PM - 2:30PM
A Case Study: GOTR Greater Richmond - Building Sustainable Growth Through People-Centered Strategies
Presenter: Catherine Estevez, Executive Director, Girls on the Run Greater Richmond
Session Description: Discover how GOTR Greater Richmond transformed its operations by implementing a people-centered sustainability strategy to enhance staff capacity, foster volunteer engagement, and promote equitable program access. Executing on this strategy enabled the council to grow from serving 723 girls in 2022 to more than 1,400 in 2025, increase revenue, diversify participation, and build a staffing structure that supports continued sustainable growth. This session will explore GOTR Greater Richmond’s strategic plan journey and the council’s successful approaches to enhancing staff capacity, engaging volunteers, and ensuring equitable program access. Learn how the council determined where to focus their investments of time, energy, and resources to build a strong internal culture, strengthen school and community partnerships, and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Session Description: Discover how GOTR Greater Richmond transformed its operations by implementing a people-centered sustainability strategy to enhance staff capacity, foster volunteer engagement, and promote equitable program access. Executing on this strategy enabled the council to grow from serving 723 girls in 2022 to more than 1,400 in 2025, increase revenue, diversify participation, and build a staffing structure that supports continued sustainable growth. This session will explore GOTR Greater Richmond’s strategic plan journey and the council’s successful approaches to enhancing staff capacity, engaging volunteers, and ensuring equitable program access. Learn how the council determined where to focus their investments of time, energy, and resources to build a strong internal culture, strengthen school and community partnerships, and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Presenter: Jackie O’Hara, BoardSource Certified Nonprofit Board Consultant and Senior Director of Council Development – Eastern Region, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: How can your passion for Girl on the Run help expand access and impact in your community? This session empowers board members to become confident fundraising champions for Girl on the Run. Attendees will explore proven fundraising strategies, effective board‑led fundraising approaches, and meaningful ways to activate personal and professional networks to expand access, strengthen programs, and ensure long‑term sustainability for the girls and communities we serve.
Please note: This session mirrors the Board Fundraising Cohort. Winter 2026 cohort participants and future cohort participants are welcome but should expect similar content focused on reinforcing best practices rather than introducing new material.
Session Description: How can your passion for Girl on the Run help expand access and impact in your community? This session empowers board members to become confident fundraising champions for Girl on the Run. Attendees will explore proven fundraising strategies, effective board‑led fundraising approaches, and meaningful ways to activate personal and professional networks to expand access, strengthen programs, and ensure long‑term sustainability for the girls and communities we serve.
Please note: This session mirrors the Board Fundraising Cohort. Winter 2026 cohort participants and future cohort participants are welcome but should expect similar content focused on reinforcing best practices rather than introducing new material.
Feedback that Fuels
Presenters:
Session Description: Opportunities for feedback are abundant in our day-to-day lives, but turning them into meaningful moments for growth requires intention, trust, and the right tools. This session will help attendees strengthen their communication skills and transform everyday interactions into feedback that fuels connection, clarity, and progress.
Together, we’ll explore the connection between feedback and trust and learn how to ask for input in ways that model curiosity, reduce defensiveness, and foster continuous improvement. Through reflection, guided exercises, and skill-building, attendees will practice research-backed strategies for giving, receiving, and inviting feedback in ways that strengthen relationships and support professional growth.
This session is designed for anyone who wants to communicate more effectively and will leave you with practical techniques you can immediately use.
- L Burleson, HR Director of Human Resources and Belonging, Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Opportunities for feedback are abundant in our day-to-day lives, but turning them into meaningful moments for growth requires intention, trust, and the right tools. This session will help attendees strengthen their communication skills and transform everyday interactions into feedback that fuels connection, clarity, and progress.
Together, we’ll explore the connection between feedback and trust and learn how to ask for input in ways that model curiosity, reduce defensiveness, and foster continuous improvement. Through reflection, guided exercises, and skill-building, attendees will practice research-backed strategies for giving, receiving, and inviting feedback in ways that strengthen relationships and support professional growth.
This session is designed for anyone who wants to communicate more effectively and will leave you with practical techniques you can immediately use.
The Power of Family engagement in Programming
Presenter: Anthony Harris Brown, Family and Community Engagement Program Manager, Cleveland Metro School District
Session Description: When families feel connected to the program, the experience is stronger for everyone involved. This session examines the essential role families play in supporting participant growth and strengthening program impact. Drawing on experience in diverse school communities, Anthony Harris Brown shares approaches to designing family engagement that are inclusive, supportive, and sustainable. Attendees will discover strategies to engage families throughout the season that build stronger connections, enhance the entire family’s experience, and extend the learning goals of GOTR beyond the program.
Session Description: When families feel connected to the program, the experience is stronger for everyone involved. This session examines the essential role families play in supporting participant growth and strengthening program impact. Drawing on experience in diverse school communities, Anthony Harris Brown shares approaches to designing family engagement that are inclusive, supportive, and sustainable. Attendees will discover strategies to engage families throughout the season that build stronger connections, enhance the entire family’s experience, and extend the learning goals of GOTR beyond the program.
pinwheel WORKSHOP: new features & efficiencies
Presenter: Michael Reale, Founder & CEO, Exit Row Solutions/Pinwheel
Session Description: Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to unlock the full potential of Pinwheel’s latest features. This session will focus on the platform’s newest tools designed to streamline workflows and save time. Attendees will learn how recent updates simplify daily tasks, discover shortcuts and best practices to work smarter, and apply learnings through hands-on exercises during the workshop. From events to fundraisers to data management, this session will cover the key features and efficiencies you and your council need to know to maximize Pinwheel’s potential as a CRM.
Session Description: Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to unlock the full potential of Pinwheel’s latest features. This session will focus on the platform’s newest tools designed to streamline workflows and save time. Attendees will learn how recent updates simplify daily tasks, discover shortcuts and best practices to work smarter, and apply learnings through hands-on exercises during the workshop. From events to fundraisers to data management, this session will cover the key features and efficiencies you and your council need to know to maximize Pinwheel’s potential as a CRM.
Tuesday, June 30, 2:45 PM - 4:30PM
Presenter: Claudia Beeny, Founder and Executive Director, House of Shine
Session Description: House of Shine is a leadership development nonprofit established to grow confident, self-aware, and resilient leaders who understand themselves and why their contributions to the world matter. Session attendees will uncover the unique blend of strengths, motivations, and experiences that shape how they work and lead. Through guided reflection and group interaction, you will gain clarity about what energizes you, what you need to thrive, and how you can contribute most effectively within your community.
Session Description: House of Shine is a leadership development nonprofit established to grow confident, self-aware, and resilient leaders who understand themselves and why their contributions to the world matter. Session attendees will uncover the unique blend of strengths, motivations, and experiences that shape how they work and lead. Through guided reflection and group interaction, you will gain clarity about what energizes you, what you need to thrive, and how you can contribute most effectively within your community.
Presenters:
Session Description: This interactive, Podio Live–style workshop explores how councils can intentionally shape the Girls on the Run participant journey to draw girls in and keep them coming back. We’ll discuss what makes the program instantly appealing, from welcoming recruitment practices and accessible family engagement to creating an atmosphere of energy, belonging, and excitement from the first lesson.
We’ll then focus on the curriculum elements that create lasting impact and stay with girls long after the season ends. The session also examines how the 5K becomes a powerful celebration of achievement and community, and how thoughtful follow-up can open doors to the next chapter through the Junior Coach pipeline, scholarships, and other ongoing engagement opportunities.
Throughout the session, councils will collaborate, share ideas, and experiment with strategies that ensure every girl feels seen, supported, and inspired. You will leave with clear, actionable ways to elevate participant experience at every stage and strengthen continued connection to Girls on the Run.
- Christie Wilson, Director of Council Development - Western Region, Girls on the Run HQ
- Maya Bui, Program Manager, Girls on the Run Puget Sound
Session Description: This interactive, Podio Live–style workshop explores how councils can intentionally shape the Girls on the Run participant journey to draw girls in and keep them coming back. We’ll discuss what makes the program instantly appealing, from welcoming recruitment practices and accessible family engagement to creating an atmosphere of energy, belonging, and excitement from the first lesson.
We’ll then focus on the curriculum elements that create lasting impact and stay with girls long after the season ends. The session also examines how the 5K becomes a powerful celebration of achievement and community, and how thoughtful follow-up can open doors to the next chapter through the Junior Coach pipeline, scholarships, and other ongoing engagement opportunities.
Throughout the session, councils will collaborate, share ideas, and experiment with strategies that ensure every girl feels seen, supported, and inspired. You will leave with clear, actionable ways to elevate participant experience at every stage and strengthen continued connection to Girls on the Run.
Taming the chaos: Project and Time Management
Presenter: Kate Thieda, Director of Council Development – Central Region (PMP), Girls on the Run HQ
Session Description: Managing a council means wearing all the hats, and this session is here to make that easier. Through hands-on activities and peer sharing, attendees will explore time-saving techniques, stress-busting project management strategies, and real-world hacks from sister council leaders. You will return home with practical takeaways and a greater sense of control.
Session Description: Managing a council means wearing all the hats, and this session is here to make that easier. Through hands-on activities and peer sharing, attendees will explore time-saving techniques, stress-busting project management strategies, and real-world hacks from sister council leaders. You will return home with practical takeaways and a greater sense of control.
Leveraging AI to boost efficiency
Presenters:
Session Description: As council staff and board leaders work to advance the Girls on the Run mission with limited time and growing demands, generative AI offers new opportunities to increase capacity, creativity, and efficiency while keeping people and purpose at the center.
Discover the transformative potential of generative AI and how it can elevate the way councils and boards operate. This interactive workshop highlights use cases that enhance efficiency, streamline processes, spark creativity, and support day-to-day responsibilities. Through engaging, hands-on activities, you’ll build familiarity with AI tools and explore thoughtful ways they can be used to enhance communication, planning, and productivity. Attendees will leave this session with a clearer understanding of how generative AI can be a valuable resource in supporting your council’s work and expanding mission impact
- Jerilyn MacLaren-Hall, Senior Manager, Accenture
- Annie Ryan, VP of Technology & Reporting, Girls on the Run HQ
- Erin Mathews, Marketing & 5K Director, Girls on the Run Northeast Ohio
- Christine Benedict, Executive Director, Girls on the Run South Central Wisconsin
Session Description: As council staff and board leaders work to advance the Girls on the Run mission with limited time and growing demands, generative AI offers new opportunities to increase capacity, creativity, and efficiency while keeping people and purpose at the center.
Discover the transformative potential of generative AI and how it can elevate the way councils and boards operate. This interactive workshop highlights use cases that enhance efficiency, streamline processes, spark creativity, and support day-to-day responsibilities. Through engaging, hands-on activities, you’ll build familiarity with AI tools and explore thoughtful ways they can be used to enhance communication, planning, and productivity. Attendees will leave this session with a clearer understanding of how generative AI can be a valuable resource in supporting your council’s work and expanding mission impact
planning and successfulLY EXECUTING SIGNATURE EVENTS
Presenters:
Session Description: In this session, attendees will explore practical strategies and tools for planning and running successful fundraising events. We’ll walk through the resources that are readily available from HQ to host your signature event and show how Pinwheel supports and simplifies event planning.
Using the Sneaker Soirée scalable event model as an example, we’ll highlight all steps of event planning, including logistics, sponsorships, communications, revenue opportunities, and creating a clear run of show. Along the way, we’ll demonstrate how councils can use Pinwheel to manage registration, track sponsors, capture attendee data, share QR codes, send automated texts, collect day-of donations, and more.
Attendees will leave with practical ideas and tools to help plan with confidence and run a smooth, mission-driven event
- Amy Spear, Development Manager, Girls on the Run HQ
- Sarah Heins, Director of Training and Implementation, Pinwheel
Session Description: In this session, attendees will explore practical strategies and tools for planning and running successful fundraising events. We’ll walk through the resources that are readily available from HQ to host your signature event and show how Pinwheel supports and simplifies event planning.
Using the Sneaker Soirée scalable event model as an example, we’ll highlight all steps of event planning, including logistics, sponsorships, communications, revenue opportunities, and creating a clear run of show. Along the way, we’ll demonstrate how councils can use Pinwheel to manage registration, track sponsors, capture attendee data, share QR codes, send automated texts, collect day-of donations, and more.
Attendees will leave with practical ideas and tools to help plan with confidence and run a smooth, mission-driven event
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