SB Birnie is a queer vegan and self-identified nerd who has been in nonprofit fundraising and analytics for over 20 years. They got their start as the Membership Intern at the Human Rights Campaign, then managed and grew their sustainer and canvass programs, and ultimately helped form the Analytics Department before heading to ROI Solutions where they did everything from programming to product management to database conversions to integrations. Now, as the VP of Analytics at Avalon Consulting, Birnie brings together that experience to provide in-depth analytics and forecasting to nonprofit organizations.
Direct Marketing Fundraising Analytics for C-Suite and Board Leaders
November 6, 2025
9:00 am - 10:00 am |
Numbers tell a story, but without the right context, even savvy leaders can be led astray.
This session is designed specifically for C-Suite executives, philanthropical leaders, and organizational decision-makers who need to understand how direct marketing fundraising performance connects to the organization’s financial health.
You’ll walk away with a sharper understanding of the key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive long-term growth. You’ll also learn how to find and apply context — both within the data itself and external factors — to make more informed decisions. Through real-world case studies and actionable insights drawn from years of analytics work, you’ll learn which levers matter most, and how to translate data into strategic decisions that support your mission and business goals.
Speakers
SB Birnie
Vice President of Analytics, Avalon Consulting
Rebecca Shapalis
Vice President, Avalon Consulting
Rebecca Shapalis is a Vice President at Avalon Consulting Group, where she has been helping clients grow their programs using expert fundraising strategies since 2014. Her extensive experience, deep knowledge, and wide range of skills are instrumental in helping Avalon’s clients control costs and increase revenues. Rebecca is a leader in the direct marketing industry and a longtime board member of the Direct Marketing Association of Washington.