Laurel McCombs – Senior Philanthropy Advisor, The Osborne Group, Inc.: Laurel brings over 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector to her role as consultant and trainer with The Osborne Group. Laurel works closely with clients on topics including donor engagement, development operations, board fundraising and more. In addition to well-received workshops for national organizations, universities, and more, Laurel has presented at the AFP International Conference, CASE-NAIS, and AFP Congress. Prior to joining TOG, Laurel worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America where she coordinated capacity-building support to agencies across the country. Laurel has a degree from USC and lives in Portland, OR.
Robert C. Osborne, Jr. – Principal, The Osborne Group, Inc.: Robert was taught the power of philanthropy from an early age from both of his parents. With more than 25 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector, Robert brings his expertise to his clients, the organizations whose boards he serves on, and the pro bono projects he assists with. He believes that civil society has a critical role to play in making the world a better place.
A well-known international speaker and workshop leader, Robert works with all types of organizations and all sizes. He has conducted well-received workshops and/or keynote addresses for the International Fundraising Congress, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy, the International Fundraising Festival, AFP Congress, the Fundraising Institute of New Zealand, and many others.
Robert serves on the boards of the United Hospital Fund and US Squash. He also serves on the International Advisory Board of the Czech Fundraising Center, the International Advisory Board of the Impact Hub Belgrade in Serbia, and the Advisory Board of the Impact Hub Metropolitan in New York. He is a studio partner and co-founder of Studio X Ventures, a venture studio for social impact startups in the Western Balkans, with a focus on women founders. Robert serves as a mentor and advisor to a number of startups in the US and the Western Balkans.
