LitNYS Special Sessions
Upcoming Special Sessions
Emotional Intelligence
Thursday, April 16
10 AM-12 PM via Zoom
Presented by Geraldine Grossman
Restorative Practices
Thursday, May 21 & Thursday, June 4
10 AM-12 PM via Zoom
Presented by Daniel O'Brien & Kyle Skovira
Finding Your Power in the Funder Relationship
Thursday, September 17
10 AM-12 PM via Zoom
Presented by Kerry McCarthy
LitNYS Special Session: Emotional Intelligence
TO BE HELD on Thursday, April 16, 2026: What if the key to stronger leadership isn’t IQ—but EQ—Emotional Intelligence? In this engaging workshop, we will explore how emotional intelligence helps leaders build trust, manage conflict, inspire creativity, and strengthen workplace relationships. Participants will learn the four pillars of EI, and practice applying these pillars to real-life challenges to engage employees, manage conflict, and build leadership effectiveness. Featured presenter is Geraldine Grossman, the Founder of My Executive Coach, a national leadership and coaching consultancy.
LitNYS Special Session: Board Development - Real-World Strategies for Success
HELD ON November 19, 2025: Throughout an organization's life cycle, having an effective partnership with its Board of Directors is key. So why is this also one of the most difficult relationships to achieve? In this session, we will take a case-study approach to examine some of the most frequently asked questions around effective board partnerships. Featured presenters are Kathryn Besemer, President, and Colleen Kinder, Co-Founder/Executive Director, Off Assignment Magazine, and Michele Kotler, Founder/Executive Director, Community Word Project.
LitNYS Special Session: Building Strategic Capacity through Clarity, Strategy, and Impact
HELD ON August 20, 2025: How do you grow a sustainable literary arts organization when so often “mission-rich and cash-poor”? Presented by LitNYS Colleague Bruce Morrow, this free interactive virtual workshop focuses on the building blocks of strategic capacity: clear budgeting, aligned fundraising, and storytelling that moves funders and communities alike.
LitNYS Special Session: That Good Feeling That Comes from Giving
HELD ON June 18, 2025: Giving is more than a transaction—it’s a powerful tool for connection and impact. Presented by LitNYS Colleague Michelle Kotler, this free virtual workshop will guide you through the process of developing a thoughtful, sustainable individual giving plan that aligns with your values and simultaneously builds community.
LitNYS Special Session: Wade in the Water
HELD ON April 16, 2025: Presented by LitNYS Colleague Lisa Willis, Wade in the Water is a free virtual workshop focused on capacity building to navigate challenging times.