WID-NJ Events
About this Virtual Happy Hour
Join us on February 11, 2026 from 4:30–5:30pm ET for a virtual happy hour designed for nonprofit fundraising professionals who want real talk and real solutions. Got a challenge? Bring it. Whether it’s donor engagement, campaign strategy, or tech troubles, this is your space to share openly and get thoughtful advice—judgment-free. Tap into the collective wisdom of peers who’ve been there, solved that, and want to help. No slides, no pressure—just honest conversation and collaborative problem-solving over your favorite drink.
Registration Information
To view a list of our upcoming events, visit www.widnewjersey.org/events and save your spots today!
About this Roundtable
Join us for "Salary, Power & Progress: Advocating for Yourself in Development," a vital discussion on February 26th at 9 AM, moderated by Angela Marie Tayco. This event brings together esteemed speakers Sahana Mukherjee, Jessica Black, and Shannon Clark Johnston to tackle critical issues surrounding compensation and career advancement within the development sector.
We will delve into the persistent patterns of underpayment and undervaluation, especially for women in development roles, exploring both internal and external barriers that hinder self-advocacy. The session will address challenging concepts like "mission guilt" and common misconceptions around nonprofit salary negotiations, offering a fresh perspective on how to navigate these conversations effectively.
Discover adaptive strategies, including recommended tools for researching salary benchmarks and effective language for discussing raises, promotions, and professional development. Learn how to reframe negotiations to feel less intimidating and more like collaborative discussions.
The event will also focus on building confidence and power, highlighting the crucial role of mentorship and sponsorship in career progression for women. We’ll discuss how to balance humility with confidence and normalize these essential conversations across the sector.
Looking ahead, we'll explore the future of salary equity and career progression in the nonprofit world over the next 5-10 years, identifying systemic changes needed at all levels to better support professionals. Don't miss the opportunity to gain one crucial piece of advice for your next negotiation.
Walk away with a transformative mindset shift or a practical tool to feel more empowered in your career conversations. This is an essential event for anyone looking to champion their value and drive progress in the development sector.
About the Speakers
Jess Black (she/her) is a Senior Talent Consultant at DRG, partnering with mission-driven organizations to recruit high-impact executives across all functions, including development, in organizations across the country and in diverse sectors. In her role, she helps boards and CEOs identify and define the priorities and core competencies for key leadership roles and partners with them to run a strategic and equitable search process. Jess works closely with candidates to support them in bringing their best selves to the interview process and fully demonstrating their skills and impact. Jess lives in South Orange, NJ, with her husband and two kids.
Shannon Clark Johnston is a former C-suite executive, coach, keynote speaker, and leadership trainer with 25+ years across corporate, nonprofit, public sector, and startups. As founder of True HR, she equips leaders and teams to build confidence, resilience, and results through practical training, executive coaching, and engaging keynotes. Known for her no-fluff, actionable style, she turns insight into behavior change. Shannon also hosts True HR: Beyond the Office, a podcast that shares candid conversations and tools to bridge work and real life.
Sahana Mukherjee is the Founder & President of Unveiled: Bridging The Gap to Sponsorship, a nonprofit focused on equitable access to career advancement opportunities. As a visionary executive, she excels at integrating technology, business, and human capital to drive growth. A recognized thought leader and keynote speaker, Sahana was named among Women We Admire’s 2024 Top 50 Women Leaders in New York and Crain’s NY 2022 Notable HR Leaders. Her expertise spans digital transformation, sustainable talent strategies, and leadership innovation. With a background in Applied Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering and HR Management, she combines technical knowledge with data-driven leadership for significant industry impact.
About this In-person Event
Join us on March 26, 2026, for an inspiring and critical conversation on the power and potential of women's leadership in the development sector.
The nonprofit and philanthropy world is being shaped by dynamic women leaders, yet they navigate unique challenges. This event is a space to acknowledge these realities and arm yourself with the strategies for success.
Our distinguished panel—featuring Michelle Wexler, Vanyah Harrigan, Joie Langford, and Sandra Toussaint-Burgher—will share their unfiltered insights on:
Don't miss this opportunity to connect with and be championed by women who are redefining the sector. Discover your bold action for the coming year and be part of the community committed to empowering women leaders.
Secure your spot today to gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and renewed inspiration.
Event Details
Date: Thu, Mar 26, 2026 Time: 6PM - 9PM Setting: In-person
Location: The Boathouse at Mercer Lake, 334 S Post Rd, West Windsor Township, NJ 08550
Guests will enjoy a light happy hour, dinner, wine/beverages, and dessert, along with networking, camaraderie, and a panel conversation! Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in your registration.
Feel free to reach out to us with any thoughts or questions at info@widnewjersey.org.
We look forward to seeing you in person for food, networking, and fun!
To view a full list of our upcoming events, visit www.widnewjersey.org/events and save your spots today!
On May 21, 2026 from 6–8pm, join fellow nonprofit fundraising professionals for Ask Me Anything: Careers, Campaigns, and Candid Conversations—an in-person evening of insight, honesty, and inspiration. Dive into a live Q&A with two powerhouse Chief Development Officers, Karyn Vella and Barbara Lovell, as they share hard-won lessons, career advice, and campaign strategies. Moderated by Erica Dekranes, this event invites you to ask anything—no topic too big or too personal. Whether you're navigating leadership, growth, or burnout, come ready for real talk and fresh perspective.
Space is limited, so grab your seat and bring your boldest questions!
Date: Thu, Sep 25, 2025 Time: 6PM - 8PM Setting: In-person
Location: Hopewell Valley Vineyards, 46 Yard Rd, Pennington, NJ 08534
Guests will enjoy an array of light appetizers, desserts, and wine. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in your registration.
Stay tuned for more information about the speakers.
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