This session will unpack the essential ingredients of a successful annual fund, from planning and segmentation to timing and ROI. Walk away with practical tools to elevate your year-round fundraising game.
- Kat Pannill, Senior Development Manager, WE CAN
- Kelsey Ellis, Director of Development, Barnstable Land Trust
About the Presenters
Kat Pannill
Senior Development Manager, WE CANKat Pannill joined WE CAN in April 2022 and was promoted to Senior Development Manager in January 2024. In this role, she works closely with the Executive Director to lead the organization’s fundraising efforts and oversees all marketing and communications initiatives. Originally from Connecticut, Kat developed a deep connection to Cape Cod through summers spent camping at Nickerson State Park. She later made the Cape her permanent home after relocating from Ithaca, NY, where she earned a B.S. from Cornell University and spent over five years working in fundraising and volunteer management. Kat became a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) in August 2025 and was named a 2024 40 Under 40 honoree. She actively contributes to the Cape community through her work on the CCYP Shape Your Cape Summit Committee, as a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters, a Board Member of Cornell Club of Cape Cod and as a graduate of the Cape Leadership Institute’s Class of 2023. Outside of work, Kat enjoys low-tide beach walks with her dog, Pemberly, as well as hiking, reading, crafting, and spending time with friends and family.
Kelsey Ellis
Director of Development, Barnstable Land TrustKelsey Ellis is the Director of Development at Barnstable Land Trust (BLT), where she drives fundraising development efforts for land acquisition, stewardship, community programs, and membership. A Cape Cod native and Nauset High School alum, Kelsey earned her BS in Communication from Boston University and launched her nonprofit career in New York City with Junior Achievement of NY and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. After returning to Brewster with her husband and two young sons, she served as Event Director for Seaside Le Mans at The Davenport Companies before joining BLT in 2022. Recognized as a Cape & Plymouth Business 40 Under 40 awardee, Kelsey also volunteers with Nauset Youth Alliance, Love Live Local and PPCI. She enjoys beach days, trail walks, and ice cream adventures with her family.