The Logic of Generosity

Feb 2026 Erin Jones

Erin Kathleen Jones is a Certified Specialist in Planned Giving and a Certified Fund Raising Executive who brings a rigorous and intentional approach to donor engagement. As the Director of Planned Giving and Major Gifts for the University of San Diego, she leads initiatives that encourage donors to connect more deeply with the institution's mission and long-term priorities. In this session, Erin will discuss donor cultivation as a deliberate, relationship-driven process. She will explain how meaningful discovery, thoughtful stewardship, and timely follow-through foster trust. Participants will learn to recognize donor signals, frame legacy conversations with clarity, and design touchpoints that transform interest into commitment. The emphasis will be on building lasting partnerships that secure enduring support for the University of San Diego.

Jan 2026 Michael Davis

Michael Davis [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-davis-24b92260/] brings a rare, dual-lens perspective to philanthropy that few professionals possess. As Senior Vice President and National Director of Philanthropic Services at U.S. Bank—and as a former planned giving officer in higher education—he understands both donors' aspirations and nonprofits' operational realities. Michael serves as a trusted bridge between organizations seeking meaningful partnerships and the financial advisors guiding donor decisions, translating intent into well-structured, impact-driven outcomes. His ability to align philanthropic vision with sound financial strategy turns traditional transactions into enduring, collaborative partnerships that advance shared goals. Pleiades Nonprofit Advisors, [https://www.linkedin.com/company/pleiades-nonprofit-advisors-llc/] #TheLogicOfGenerosityPodcast [https://www.linkedin.com/search/results/all/?keywords=%23thelogicofgenerositypodcast&origin=HASH_TAG_FROM_FEED]

September 2025 Brian Nielson

Brian Nielson of Azimuth Legal Solutions reminds us that fundraising is about guiding. When fundraisers step up as philanthropic advisors and connect donors with the right professionals, magic happens. Bigger gifts. Smarter giving. Greater impact. It’s about shifting the role from solicitor to trusted guide, helping donors see what’s possible and giving them the confidence to act on it. ... Brian is a seasoned estate and charitable planning professional with over 20 years’ experience guiding families, business owners and nonprofits through legacy planning and strategic giving. He is known for his ability to translate complex legal and financial concepts into clear, actionable plans that align with his clients’ values and long-term goals. His expertise includes trusts, tax-efficient giving, and estate administration. Brian has been a speaker and educator at national conferences and professional gatherings on a wide range of topics, from life insurance and estate planning to data-driven development and digital assets. Brian has been married to Sara for 29 years and together they are raising 6 amazing children. The family enjoys being together outdoors especially when they are camping, hiking or fishing. A lifelong learner with a tendency for collecting hobbies, Brian’s interests include creating community through cooking outdoors and for large groups. He enjoys the problem solving and artistic aspects of woodworking, leatherwork, & home repair. His love of the outdoors and enjoyment of firearms align in hunting. He is committed to the personal protections of the constitution and ensuring the preservation of our natural resources for generations to come. For more information about Azimuth Legal Solutions, please visit:https://azimuthlegalsolutions.comFor more information about Pleiades NPA, please visit:https://www.pleiadesnpa.com/

Javier and Cassie Reyes (Part 2) - August 2025

Last time, we only dipped a toe in the water. We had Javier and Cassie Reyes on, and what unfolded was the beginning of a much bigger conversation—one that touches the messy, magical intersection of generosity and real estate. You see, saying "yes" to a gift of property sounds like the right kind of generosity. But what if that gift ends up creating a financial nightmare for the organization receiving it?That’s why we invited Javier and Cassie back. Because due diligence is what separates a gift from a liability. In today’s episode, we dig deeper. What should you really be checking into before accepting that property? What stories sit with the title company? What about seller disclosures as well as finding an accurate appraisal? What about insurance or the overall condition of the property? And how do you honor the donor’s intent without putting your organization at risk?Let’s explore the questions most people are too polite—or too busy—to ask.

July 2025 Javier and Cassie Reyes

Hidden Real Estate Gold or Huge Headache?Javier and Cassie Reyes crack open a truth we don’t talk about enough: Real estate has huge potential for transformative momentum for most nonprofit organizations. Hidden in every parcel of land is a story, a legacy, and yes, a powerful opportunity for giving. But, hidden gold can often turn into a huge headache without significant due diligence up front. Javier and Cassie are so much more than real estate agents. Specializing in probate and trust sales, this dynamic duo have encountered some fairly challenging transactions. With their guidance, they invite us into a meaningful conversation about how best to approach real estate gifs. Javier Reyes and Cassandra Reyes, based in Beverly Hills, CA, are a highly respected full-service Real Estate Team that specialize in marketing homes and finding the best properties for their clients in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and Santa Barbara counties. With 39 years of combined experience in the industry and over 1300 homes sold, the Reyes Team has earned a solid reputation for delivering exceptional services that cater to the unique needs of each client. Their in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market, combined with their expertisein marketing and property research, makes them a sought-after choice for anyone looking to buy or sell a property in Southern California.If you're looking to sell your home in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and Santa Barbara Counties. It is important to have a solid marketing strategy in place to ensure your property gets noticed by as many potential buyers as possible. To maximize your property's exposure and attract qualified buyers, it's crucial to work with an experienced real estate team that understands the local market and has a proven track record of success. By partnering with a knowledgeable team and leveraging the latest digital marketing techniques, you can showcase your property's unique features and advantages, generate interest from qualified buyers, and ultimately achieve a successful sale that meets your goals and expectations. pleiadesnpa.com reyesteamca.com