In a moment defined by incredible volatility—shifting markets, political uncertainty, and fluctuating philanthropic support—foundations face a difficult but urgent question: How do we continue to deliver meaningful impact for the communities we serve? As stewards of both mission and capital, philanthropic institutions are being called to re-examine how every resource on their balance sheet can advance equity, resilience, and long-term change.
This in‑person session will explore practical approaches and emerging frameworks that help foundations more intentionally align mission with investment governance, enabling organizations to bring their values to life not only through grantmaking, but through endowment management, spending policy, and partnerships.
Participants will gain insights from the Council on Foundations–Commonfund Study of Investment of Endowments for Private and Community Foundations (CCSF)—the most comprehensive annual dataset on foundation investment performance and practices in the sector. These peer benchmarks offer valuable context for how foundations of all sizes are navigating turbulent markets, balancing long‑term return expectations with increased payout, and integrating impact considerations into portfolio decisions.
What will you learn?
Participants will be able to:
- Approach institutional conversations with a purpose and mission-aligned framework
- Identify and discuss how to prepare for rewriting an investment policy statement, including sustainable resource management needs and how to operationalize organizational values
- Consider how to steward financial resources in service of long-term community impact
Speakers
- Lenore Champagne Beirne, Treasurer and Investment Committee Chair, New York Foundation
- Vonda Brunsting, Former Foundation Trustee and Investment Committee Chair, Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation
- Mike Pratt, President & CEO, The Scherman Foundation
- Deborah Velazquez, President, Altman Foundation
- Nicole Melwood (Presenter), Director, Commonfund
- George Suttles (Moderator), Executive Director, Commonfund Institute
Who should attend?
Designed for executives, trustees, and investment committee members, this session creates space for shared learning, candid dialogue, and actionable insights to help foundations navigate complexity while staying grounded in purpose. What to expect: presentation followed by discussions.
How do I sign up?
9:15 - 9:30 AM Check-in
9:30 - 11:30 AM Program (light breakfast included)
Registration is required by April 20th.
Members: To register yourself and/or a colleague at your organization, please log in and click the Register Now link above. (no fee)
Non-Member Funders: Please email register@philanthropynewyork.org ($150 fee)