Back to the Basics:
Reconnecting, Rebuilding, and Rising Together!
Join us for an exceptional time of networking and developing our role as leaders in our Association and local alumni chapters. The FVSU Alumni Development Conference is to focus on a variety of strategic areas aimed at strengthening alumni engagement and supporting the growth and sustainability of alumni chapters and fundraising efforts.
2025 Alumni Development
Conference
JUNE 5-6
Embassy Suites, Buckhead Atlanta
3285 Peachtree Road, NE
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Insights into modern approaches to fundraising, such as digital campaigns and personalized donor outreach.
Guidance on creating sustainable and meaningful donor relationships that extend beyond one-time contributions.
Discussion on using alumni networks to identify new fundraising opportunities and increase giving.
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Exploration of the latest digital tools and platforms that can help alumni stay connected, informed, and involved with the University.
How to use social media, mobile apps, virtual events, and other technologies to maintain engagement and create ongoing communication with alumni.
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Exploration of how to build a culture of legacy giving, where alumni contribute to endowments and establish long-term support for the University.
Tactics for identifying potential legacy donors and the importance of clear, compelling communication about the impact of these gifts.
Focus on strategies to ensure that alumni understand the importance of endowments in shaping the future of their alma mater.
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Tips for leveraging alumni networks to create professional growth opportunities for individuals and groups.
Workshops on how to cultivate and maintain valuable relationships within alumni community that support career development.
Focus on creating formal and informal mentoring opportunities and professional development programs.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6 | CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Antonio C. Cuyler, Ph.D. (he/him/his) is Professor of Music in Entrepreneurship & Leadership, Faculty Associate in the Africana Studies Center, Faculty Associate in Voice & Opera in the School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD), and hired through the Provost’s Anti-Racism Hiring Initiative (AHI) at the University of Michigan. He has taught Fundraising and Grant Writing at the Savannah College of Art and Design, Florida State University (FSU), and the University of Michigan. He has also reviewed more than 400 grants for funding agencies such as the Arts Council of Fairfax County, Arts Council of Indianapolis, Council on Culture & Arts (COCA), Cuyahoga Arts, Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, International Association of Blacks in Dance, National Endowment for the Arts, OPERAAmerica, and U. S. Department of Education. His professional fundraising experience includes serving as a Research Analyst for the College of Motion Picture Arts, College of Music, former College of Visual Arts, Theatre & Dance, and Ringling Museum at FSU, and co-chair of the Finance and Fundraising committee on the Arts Administrators of Color Network’s board that procured a transformative gift from Mackenzie Scott in 2021. Most recently, he procured more than $300k from the Wallace Foundation and the University of Michigan to conduct and support his research and teaching.
Courtney Nicole Howard is the NTIA Project Director at Fort Valley State University (FVSU), where she leads initiatives to expand broadband access and digital equity. A proud 2015 graduate of FVSU, Courtney holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and is passionate about leveraging technology to empower underserved communities.
In addition to her professional work, Courtney is the host of "The CourtHouse", a podcast dedicated to honest conversations around mental health, personal growth, and community healing. Through her platform, she uplifts voices that are often overlooked and encourages open dialogue on topics that matter.
A dedicated advocate for mental health awareness, Courtney uses both her voice and experience to break stigmas, especially within communities of color. Her work reflects a deep commitment to service, education, and transformation.
Christopher Pirtle, the Managing Director of the PEAKE FINANCIAL GROUP in Silver Spring, Maryland, has fashioned a formidable career in the Life Insurance and Investments industries over the past 20+ years. After graduating from the University of Maryland at College Park, he joined the Prudential Insurance Company in 1990 before moving on to Northwestern Mutual Life where he held positions as College Unit Director and Field Director. In 2001, Mr. Pirtle joined The MONY Group as an Assistant Managing Director, and in 2003 he started Peake Financial.
Chi Chi Okezie is the owner/producer of SIMPLEnetworking, LLC (SN) a certified black, women-owned consulting firm specializing in professional development, inclusive leadership, and cultural awareness training. With over 19 years of experience in business development and consulting, Chi Chi has worked with universities, government agencies, corporations, and associations to enhance workplace culture and foster inclusive environments. She is the author of 2 networking books, blogs as the Champion Networker. Her company was granted a Proclamation for Business Networking Day for November 13th.
As a dynamic speaker/facilitator, Chi Chi is passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to break down barriers, embrace diversity, and unlock their full potential. Her expertise lies in delivering engaging, actionable workshops on topics such as business networking, cross-cultural communication, and leadership development. She is committed to equipping individuals with the tools they need to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and advance the mission of their organization.
Chi Chi is also a member of the Oxford College of Emory Board of Counselors, past member of the Emory Alumni Board. As well as served as an Alumni Representative for the University Senate, and an Alumni Counselor for the Campus Life Committee of the Emory Board of Trustees. Chi Chi was chair, co-chair, and re-chair of the Alumnae and Women of Emory, Atlanta Chapter. She received the 2015 Emory Campus Life Alumni Involvement, the 2017 Outstanding Oxford Alumna Award (Oxford College of Emory), and the 2023 J.Pollard Turman Award (Emory). She is also a member of ADMAG: Atlanta Diversity Management Advocacy Group, WEOP: Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project and Turning Point Church, McDonough, GA. She has received various awards such as: 40 Under 40 Connect Magazine and Rejuvenate Magazine Class of 2013. Chi Chi speaks 3 different languages: English, Igbo (Nigerian language) and French. As well as, enjoys travel, arts and entertainment, golf, and fashion.
