Some conference sessions go well.
Others create conversations people simply don’t want to leave.
On June 24, I had the privilege of moderating the panel session “The 360° View: Candid Insights from Corporate Philanthropy Leaders” at the AFP DFW Philanthropy in Action Conference at the Hurst Conference Center—my third consecutive year leading this session, and a most memorable one.
EVERY seat in the ballroom was filled.
For 50 minutes, our conversation was candid, practical, insightful—and yes, filled with laughter. Because the best learning happens when people are engaged, comfortable, and enjoying the conversation.
When our scheduled time came to an end, we decided to keep going. We told everyone they were welcome to leave if they needed to make their next session.
One person left.
That moment said everything.
My esteemed panelists shared the kind of insights you won’t find in a white paper or webinar. One even delivered a true “drop-the-mic” 🎤 moment 💥 with an opportunity offered ONLY to those in the room—a reminder that showing up in person still matters.
One takeaway especially resonated with the audience: A corporate “no” doesn’t always mean “never.” Even if a company can’t support your mission directly, they may be able to introduce you to one that can. Don’t let a “no” end the conversation—turn it into the next step. ✨
My heartful thanks to my outstanding panelists:
Dora Zapata, Enterprise Charitable Contributions Senior Manager, Impact Strategy & Operations Global Impact Organization, McKesson;
Alexis Snow, Vice President, Wells Fargo Foundation – D/FW Region
Thank you both for your time, candor, generosity, and willingness to share what nonprofit professionals rarely get to hear firsthand. 👏
To our attendees, thank you for your attention, interest, and —for choosing to stay! You made the session every bit as rewarding for us as I hope it was for you.
And, most importantly, a very special thank you to my wife, Debra, whose camera work captured all of these amazing moments! Thank you. ❤️
Shout out to my colleagues at both AFP Dallas and Fort Worth Chapters for this great opportunity to again pull this panel session together and for your continued confidence in me. I loved it!!
Finally, moments like these remind me that meaningful corporate partnerships don’t begin with a proposal—they begin with authentic conversations. 🤝
Trust is built one conversation at a time. When people are willing to stay in the room, you know something meaningful is happening. Best wishes to you, all. 👍
See more events on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ejeffserrano360corporateengagement