James Misner is the owner and founder of the Kipos Group which is dedicated to helping organizations with their fundraising efforts. Given the extraordinary impact of DOGE cuts and the withholding of public funding by the current administration on nonprofit institutions across the political spectrum, James offers insights on how to navigate the current philanthropic environment. Whether one is seeking recurring monthly gift-giving through smaller donors or large dollar contributions from wealthy individuals or foundations, James provides tips for building ongoing relationships through the power of storytelling.

Animal Care Software

Recently, the zoological community said goodbye to a few remarkable and long lived animals, Katina, Seaworld's iconic killer whale matriarch and Slowpoke, a 50-year-old Pacific walrus. Both animals had an impressive lifespan educating and inspiring millions of visitors, as well as, teaching generations of animal caregivers. Katina was not only the queen of Shamu stadium, she was a highly successful mother of eight calves across her 50+ years. Chuck Tompkins was one of the first trainers to know and develop a strong relationship with Katina before moving up the corporate ladder and handing her day to day training and care to the next generation of trainers including Killing Keiko author, Mark Simmons. Both discuss these unique animals who left an indelible mark on so many.

Animal Care Software

Kathleen Dezio has been the president and CEO of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) for well over a decade. Her wealth of experience working in the Washington, D. C. area in the PR, public policy and trade association management space helps AMMPA's accredited facilities navigate the complex issues facing zoological institutions, especially those featuring marine mammals. In what she hopes will serve as a model for future cooperation, AMMPA recently joined two other zoological trade associations in a joint conference meant to share resources, best practices, and promote continuous improvement in animal care and welfare standards.

Animal Care Software