The Andar User Group Conference (UGC) returns April 7th to the 9th, 2026. The annual event brings together United Way professionals from across North America for three days of learning, connection, and practical insight. We are thrilled to announce the two nationally respected keynote speakers anchoring this year’s UGC event - Karen Graham and Kivi Leroux Miller. Watch for these industry-leaders to deliver timely, actionable perspectives on technology adoption and nonprofit communications.
Karen Graham is a widely respected nonprofit technology strategist, consultant, writer, and speaker, with deep expertise in CRM selection, adoption, and long-term success. She works closely with nonprofit organizations to bridge the gap between technology strategy and day-to-day operations, helping teams understand not only which systems to use, but why they matter, and how to ensure they deliver lasting value.
Karen’s experience spans the full CRM lifecycle, including evaluation, implementation, governance, staff adoption, and continuous improvement. Her work is grounded in the real-world challenges nonprofits face, such as limited resources, competing priorities, and the need for systems that support collaboration across departments.
At UGC 2026, Karen’s keynote will focus on CRM adoption and best practices. She will explore the strategic rationale behind CRM investments alongside the practical steps required to build staff confidence, improve data quality, and increase organizational alignment. Attendees will leave with insights they can apply immediately to strengthen CRM usage and maximize the impact of their technology investments.
Kivi Leroux Miller is a nationally recognized nonprofit marketing and communications expert and the author of The Nonprofit Marketing Guide. With decades of experience working alongside nonprofit organizations, Kivi helps teams sharpen their storytelling, administer more effective campaigns, and build sustainable marketing and communications capacity.
Known for her practical and straightforward approach, Kivi focuses on strategies that are realistic for nonprofit teams, particularly those working with limited time, budgets, and staff. Her work emphasizes clarity, consistency, and audience-centered messaging that drives engagement and action.
In her UGC 2026 keynote, Kivi will explore current trends shaping nonprofit marketing and communications, with a strong focus on storytelling, campaign planning, and staff training. Attendees will gain actionable ideas to improve how their organizations communicate impact, connect with donors and partners, and align marketing efforts across teams.
UGC 2026 is designed to help United Way professionals get more value from their tools, strengthen internal capacity, and stay ahead of evolving nonprofit challenges. With keynote sessions from Karen Graham and Kivi Leroux Miller, this year’s conference will deliver both strategic perspective and practical guidance you can put to work right away.
Early-bird registration is now open. Secure your team's spot and take advantage of discounted pricing by purchasing your team ticket today - buy one ticket, invite the entire team! Visit the UGC registration page to register and bring the team to join us in April.
