SPECIAL GATHERINGS

Networking and collaboration are more important than ever. With this in mind, we’ve created structured and unstructured blocks of time for you to connect with your colleagues. We encourage you to take advantage of these networking opportunities to deepen and broaden your relationships with other education grantmakers.

Monday, October 5

10:45 AM - 11:45 AM: Conversations with plenary speakers

Use this time to discuss what's hot in education philanthropy.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Foundations for Education Excellence Luncheon

An-Me Chung from the Charles Steward Mott Foundation will make a lunchtime presentation on the Foundations for Education Excellence - a national approach to leverage ARRA and foundation funding to help states and districts ensure that students in the U.S. are prepared for success in school, work and life. In cooperation with U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan and an advisory board of foundation representatives from local, regional and national foundations, this initiative strives to align local, state and national investments to better ensure effectiveness, innovation, and sustainable implementation.

During this session, foundations will be introduced to a website developed by Foundation Center that serves as a central information hub of rich information and knowledge for education funders seeking information, news, and knowledge on ARRA and education reform. In addition, the national advisory board will seek input from foundation colleagues on how best to leverage ARRA funding to further education goals.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Networking lunch

Enjoy lunch with fellow colleagues.

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Host event

With a jazz ensemble from the famed Merit School of Music as the musical backdrop, join us for GFE’s evening cocktail reception at The Art Institute of Chicago. Come catch up with colleagues over hors d’oeuvres at the Institute’s beautiful Grand Staircase, and take time to enjoy the museum’s extensive, world-renowned Impressionism and Post-Impressionism collections before venturing out for dinner on the town.

Tuesday, October 6

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Walking tour

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Chicago's spectacular architecture and learn about the famous Burnham plan.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Funder-sponsored receptions

These receptions sponsored by different funders are a great way to meet your colleagues with similar interests.

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