

Networking & Knowledge
December 4, 2024 @8:30 am - 10:30 am
“Breakfast with a Philanthropist”
This moderated discussion is an opportunity for development professionals to engage with those in our community that have demonstrated outstanding civic and charitable responsibility to Cincinnati nonprofits and our communities.
Guests attending this discussion can expect a heartfelt and inspiring conversation that delves into the personal journeys and insights of our guests as philanthropic leaders. Through thoughtful questions, we’ll explore topics such as what brings them joy and how giving has deepened their sense of fulfillment. Guests will share memorable experiences, including their first philanthropic endeavors and the relationships they’ve built with nonprofits.
We’ll also discuss practical advice on balancing immediate needs with long-term change, fostering collaboration with nonprofits, and recognizing the impact of giving. Additionally, we’ll explore ways to increase diversity in the philanthropic sector and inspire the next generation to get involved in meaningful ways.
This session is not just about hearing their stories—it’s about discovering shared values and actionable ideas to drive positive change in our community.
Date:
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Time:
8:30-9:00 – Doors open/Networking
9:00-10:30 – Program
Location:
United Way of Greater Cincinnati
2400 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45202
United Way has a free surface lot for attendees.
Cost:
AFP Members & Students (with valid student ID) – FREE
Non-Members – $45.00
This event will be approved for 1.5 CFRE Credits.
Your reservation is a financial commitment.
About the Speakers:
![]() Philanthropist of the Year |
Sherie Lynch Marek A Higbee, Missouri native, Sheri graduated from University of Missouri where she majored in Art. When she moved to Cincinnati with her family, Sheri taught; when she couldn’t find a job teaching art, she taught typing and business. Sheri has a long eclectic list of side gigs that she had to stay busy when not teaching or volunteering. Among the organizations that have benefitted from her service and generosity are Dress for Success, St. Vincent de Paul, May Festival, Cincinnati Art Museum, Lighthouse Youth Services, Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati International Wine Festival, Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky Film Commission, Cancer Family Care, Cincinnati Bicentennial, Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Hearing Speech + Deaf Center, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, JDRF (now Breakthrough T1D), Cincinnati Horticultural Society/Cincinnati Flower Show, People Working Cooperatively, Historic Southwest Ohio and AVOC. “She was a founding board member of Dress for Success and went on to become board chair and is the overall largest donor in the organization’s history. Although the organizations Marek supports represent a range of causes, two are particularly close to her heart: children and the arts. |
![]() Outstanding Corporation/Foundation |
Barbara Turner
Turner, a Cincinnati native, is well known in the region’s corporate and philanthropic circles, with more than 40 years of corporate leadership experience in the financial services industry. She spent much of that time at Ohio National Financial Services, where she rose through the ranks to become the company’s first female and first Black president and CEO. Turner founded BT RISE shortly after resigning from Ohio National. BT RISE and the Turner Family Foundation advance economic empowerment and education providing mentorship and financial coaching, by funding educational and leadership development scholarships and by providing financial grants to individuals looking to start or scale businesses. BT RISE has also extended direct financial support, in-kind donations and volunteer hours to targeted organizations doing great work in our region to end poverty and lift others up. |