About the Presenters:
Cherian Koshy is a Certified Fundraising Executive and AFP Master Trainer with more than fifteen years of experience in a variety of nonprofits where he has successfully helped organizations connect thousands of donors to causes they care about and raise tens of millions of dollars from foundations, governments, businesses, and individuals in the process. He serves as the Director of Development at Des Moines Performing Arts, one of the nation's premier arts organizations.
As a member of the advisory panel for Rogare: The Fundraising Think Tank at the University of Plymouth, he has written a number of articles and contributed to a number of papers on fundraising ethics, professional development, and philanthropy in the US. He has been appointed by the governor to Iowa’s Commission on Volunteer Service where he helps advance legislation to support volunteerism and engage Iowans in volunteer activity. Nationally, he serves as a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals External Relations Committee as well as a regular presenter at the AFP International Conference and regional workshops on fundraising. Cherian was also one of the most successful debating coaches in the United States. His students won dozens of national and international championships. He is the author of one of the most widely used debating textbooks currently used and has taught thousands of students over the last twenty years.
Eric Heininger is inspired by people who, when given the opportunity, thrive and contribute back to the community that has served them. Whether that opportunity is safe shelter, educational assistance, or community health services, he has seen the lasting impact these interventions can have on one’s life. Eric is honored to partner with talented leaders and organizations to elevate their missions and ultimately serve the community through strategic, passion-driven endeavors.
Eric brings more than a decade of fundraising experience to Des Moines. He has worked in multiple sectors of the nonprofit community including religious, national and international social service, human rights, cultural, education, and health agencies. Eric has successfully conducted capital campaigns and feasibility studies across the country, managed large portfolios of grants at every level, created corporate sponsorship plans, implemented volunteer recruitment strategies, and coordinated individual major gift fundraising efforts.
