As more and more organizations realize the importance and necessity of engaging in important issues in our communities, it is critically important to understand the role of advocacy in our work.  Stepping into the role of advocate, especially as a nonprofit professional, can often bring questions, uncertainties and sometimes even fear. It doesn’t have to, though!

Join Kristen Merrifield, CEO of the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits to gain a better understanding of the ins and outs of nonprofit advocacy and the knowledge you need to do this work effectively.  Kristen will also facilitate an engaging roundtable discussion tailored to the needs and questions around your role in advocacy as a fundraising professional. 

Kristen Merrifield, CAE, CNAP, Chief Executive Officer
Kristen is a proven leader across multiple sectors invested in the development and success of others.  She has more than 18 years’ experience leading efforts to support community stakeholders, including extensive involvement working with professional associations, Chambers of Commerce and various community and business organizations, both public and private. Kristen is a fierce competitor, never satisfied with resting on her laurels and is always looking for the next big challenge to conquer. She is driven to be the best while remaining authentic and invested in the success of others. Experienced, calm under pressure, a seasoned leader and skilled communicator, she knows how to solve the big problems and create consensus around complex issues. Her WHY is to be the best version of herself so that she can share her knowledge and experience with others to help them reach their full potential.

Kristen is an active volunteer serving on various business and nonprofit community committees and boards. She holds a BS in Business Management and an MS in Leadership from Grand Canyon University; a Certificate in Association Management from ASAE and the prestigious designations of Certified Association Executive (CAE) and Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP). She is also a graduate of the ASU Lodestar Center’s Generation Next Nonprofit Leadership Academy and the ASBA Executive Business Mentoring Program.

Thank you to our October sponsor!