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Attendees sit at round tables in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center during the 2024 NonProfits LEAD Conference as a speaker stands on stage at the podium

Registration is now open for Marietta College’s Nonprofits LEAD Annual Capacity Building Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. Early registration is encouraged, as spots are limited and sessions are expected to fill quickly.

For more than a decade, the Nonprofits LEAD Conference has brought together nonprofit leaders, board members, staff, volunteers, and community supporters. As the Mid-Ohio Valley’s premier capacity building event, it is designed to be accessible, affordable, and close to home, offering attendees opportunities to gain practical insights, strengthen leadership skills, and connect with changemakers making an impact across Ohio and West Virginia.

Conference attendees can expect a customizable learning experience, with three workshop sessions offered across six tracks: Finance and Fundraising, Human Resources, Marketing and Networking, Information Technology, Board Governance and Advocacy, and Operations and Programming. This flexible format allows participants to mix and match sessions, building a schedule tailored to their organization’s professional interests and goals.

This year’s conference will feature a keynote address from Dr. Michelle M. Foster, President and CEO of The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation, along with expanded opportunities to network through the second annual Vendor Fair, which will include 37 local nonprofit and for-profit organizations.

In addition to the sessions, the event is organized to engage and energize attendees, with live music, catered meals, interactive experiences, and a closing Ice Cream Social.

“I am excited to welcome attendees to our annual capacity building conference at Marietta College. This premier event is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet, featuring local subject-matter experts, our second annual vendor fair, and meaningful networking opportunities. We look forward to a day of learning and connection, right here at home,” said Shannan Tschopp, director of the Nonprofits LEAD program.

Early bird registration is $70 per person through April 15 and will increase to $80 per person. The all-inclusive fee covers meals, snacks, and access to all sessions, with no additional fees or costs. Limited financial assistance is available thanks to generous local sponsors. Marietta College students, faculty, and staff may attend at no cost.

Register by Friday, May 1, or until capacity is reached. For more information or to register, visit marietta.givepulse.com/event/832858 or email nonprofitslead@marietta.edu