Blog Post #1: IMPACT Summit

Reflecting on the Magic of IMPACT Summit 2025

We are still riding the high from this year’s IMPACT Summit—and feeling incredibly grateful. What started as a spark of inspiration at a conference Nisi Bennett and I attended in Austin has grown into a powerful annual event that brings together changemakers, community leaders, and nonprofit professionals in the spirit of collaboration and growth.

It’s wild to think how far this idea has come—and how much more we can do when working together. When you join forces with powerhouse collaborators like Nisi Bennett, Miranda Cushman, Zahra Cruzan, Kara Willer, there’s truly nothing we can’t accomplish. (Well… maybe except setting up a step-and-repeat without issues. We’re still working on that one!)

✨ What made #impactstx2025 so special?

 

  • We had an incredible turnout—thank you to everyone who showed up ready to learn, connect, and grow.
  • We’re beyond grateful to our exhibitors who shared their knowledge and resources, and to Apple Spice for keeping everyone energized with a delicious lunch.
  • Collaborator Jennifer Lloyd and our very own Trisha Box took the stage and delivered a hands-on workshop on crafting compelling 60-second impact stories—giving nonprofit leaders the tools to share their missions with clarity and confidence.
  • Across the board, attendees walked away with real, actionable skill sets and made meaningful connections that will carry far beyond the event. Plus our giveaway was nominated as best gift ever! Thanks, Stammy NFC! (We love supporting budding entrepreneurs who happen to be Villanova grads!)
“Outstanding conference! The team did a great job selecting diverse content, creating space for authentic and intimate conversations, and providing fabulous sustenance (that salad was excellent!!). I am so glad I was able to attend and participate.”
Millicent Boykin One Star Foundation

 
🚀 Looking Ahead

Planning is already underway for IMPACT Summit 2026, and we can’t wait to build on the momentum. If you’re interested in partnering, presenting, or attending next year’s summit, stay tuned—big things are coming.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible community. Let’s keep collaborating to make an impact, together.

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Denise E. Bennett
Consultant

As a specialized writer of grants, policies, procedures and well-told stories, Denise’s career spans more than 35 years of for-profit and nonprofit experience in the medical, banking and social services professions. Her financial acuity and love of writing led her to a successful career in grant writing and nonprofit fundraising. Denise has significant experience in fund development, grant writing and management, as well as operations oversight for a variety of nonprofit organizations. An achievement-focused innovator, she is a strong collaborator and strategic thinker, able to resolve workplace challenges. Denise is a graduate of Belmont University and has an MBA from Keller School of Management.

M. Leslie Palmer
Founding Principal | Managing Consultant

With decades of for-profit and nonprofit experience, Leslie shares her expertise and partners with other strong practitioners to help grow the capacity and success of the nonprofit community. Leslie brings practical experience to clients, having served on numerous boards of nonprofit organizations. Leslie has significant experiences on the other side of the table, as well, having worked in leadership and management for organizations like Boys and Girls Clubs of San Antonio, American Red Cross, City Year San Antonio and World Affairs Council of San Antonio. Leslie is a dedicated maven, leader, and perceptor who strives to embolden clients to achieve their goals. Originally from Newport, RI, Leslie is a graduate of Villanova University.