9:30 AM -10:30 AM: Finding Your Voice in North Carolina Politics 

This session, designed for those who are not ready to run but want to have an impact on important issues, offers an overview of the “nuts and bolts” of government and political parties in the state. Topics covered will include positioning oneself for appointment to a public board or commission and getting active in a political party.

Presenter: Jessica Holmes

10:30 AM-11:45 AM: Deciding to Run 

This session provides an overview of the key elements of a campaign, including assessing and establishing oneself as a candidate, developing a campaign plan, structuring a campaign organization, and voter contact.

Presenter: Anna Scott Marsh, Michael Best Strategies LLC

11:45-12:45 PM Lunch Keynote with Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02)

Congresswoman Deborah Ross is currently in her second term representing North Carolina’s Second Congressional District, which includes most of Wake County. She serves on the House Judiciary Committee; the House Ethics Committee; the House Committee on Space, Science, and Technology; and the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. She is also a member of the House Democrats’ leadership team, serving as a Chief Deputy Whip and on the Steering and Policy Committee.

She graduated from law school at UNC-Chapel Hill and entered public service in 2002 when she ran for and won a seat representing Wake County in the North Carolina House of Representatives, where she served for more than a decade.

1:00 PM -2:00 PM: Fundraising 

Fundraising is one of the most crucial aspects of a campaign. This interactive workshop covers key components of campaign fundraising, including special emphasis on understanding why people give and the in-person “ask.” The session will also address developing a strategy for your campaign, building a donor list, recruiting and motivating a finance committee, and special events.

Presenter: Maggie Barlow, Maven Strategies

2:15-3:15 PM: Communicating Your Message 

This session will provide the practical information you need to prepare yourself to run for office or to advocate for issues you care about, including developing a unique and persuasive message and improving your digital presence. We will also cover tips for communicating on-camera, connecting through virtual platforms, and adjusting to an evolving news environment.

Presenter: Donna King, Carolina Journal

3:30-4:30 PM: Legislative Advocacy 

This session is designed for those who are not ready to run but want to have an impact on important issues. Legislative advocacy is working with individual lawmakers and lawmaking bodies to gain support for your cause or initiative. Learn how to organize a legislative advocacy campaign, including gathering allies, creating a campaign structure, building a communication network, and cultivating media relationships.

Presenter: Skye David, New Frame LLC