Agenda and Speakers
State of Nonprofits 2026
Seara Grundhoefer, Senior Analyst, Research, Center for Effective Philanthropy
Seara Grundhoefer supports the research team at the Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP) as a senior analyst in designing research studies, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data, and writing reports. She is a frequent speaker to foundation and nonprofit staff on topics of philanthropic effectiveness. Prior to joining CEP in October 2023, Seara worked in international development, contributing to program and impact evaluations of U.S. government-funded projects across a range of subject areas, including health, infrastructure and migration. Seara is a proud graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, with degrees in economics and political science. She currently resides in San Francisco, California.
Kansas in Action: Omni Circle
Michael Odupitan, Founder and CEO, Omni Circle
Michael Odupitan is the founder and CEO of Omni Circle Group, a Topeka-based nonprofit focused on uniting and strengthening communities through social and economic impact. With more than 17 years of experience in social services, community development and entrepreneurship, Michael works to create pathways that help individuals and communities connect, collaborate and create greater opportunity. Through Omni Circle, he is building a community wealth-building ecosystem that supports leadership development, entrepreneurship, economic mobility and inclusive growth. Michael is passionate about creating systems that empower people to turn opportunity into lasting impact for themselves, their families and their communities.
Equipped to Mobilize: Building skills for every stop along the way
- Know Your Value — Kevin Kovach, Dr.P.H., M.Sc., Principal Strategist for Public Health Services and Systems, Kansas Health Institute
- Build Your Network — Samiyah Para-Cremer Moore, M.Sc., Senior Analyst & Portfolio Strategist, Kansas Health Institute
- Spread the Word — Theresa Freed, M.A., A.P.R., Director of Strategic Communication and Engagement, Kansas Health Institute
- Leverage AI — Shelby Rowell, M.P.A., Senior Analyst, Kansas Health Institute