Hampton Roads Gift Planning Council Meeting
Thursday, March 12, 2026
From Intent to Impact: Unlocking the
Psychology of Transformational Giving
with guest speaker:
J. Howard Rodman, Jr., CFP®
Rodman-Moore Group
First Vice President, Investments
Portfolio Management Director
Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Planned and major gifts move well beyond the scope of traditional annual appeals—they invite donors to reflect more deeply on their values, legacy, and long-term commitment to an organization. This engaging presentation explores what truly motivates donors to make six- and seven-figure gifts and how fundraisers can thoughtfully position an ask based on different donor personality types.
Participants will examine the psychological and practical drivers behind transformational giving, common stumbling blocks that arise during the cultivation and solicitation process, and the key people, timing, and circumstances that must be considered along the way. The session also focuses on how to discuss planned gifts in clear, accessible language—showing how these gifts can simultaneously meet a donor’s personal, financial, and philanthropic goals while advancing the mission of the organization.
Using real-world examples, the presentation demonstrates how to move conversations from simple charitable ideas to more sophisticated planned giving solutions—without relying on technical or industry jargon. Attendees will leave with practical insights and tools to build donor confidence, deepen relationships, and inspire meaningful, lasting impact.
Speaker bio:
Mr. Rodman provides comprehensive financial planning for High Net Worth individuals, qualified
retirement accounts and foundations since 1982. This planning includes fiduciary compliance, estate
planning, business continuation planning, divorce financial planning, asset allocation and portfolio
management. In addition, he has been active in the philanthropy by designing and leading
PaineWebber’s Philanthropic Services Group from 1996 -1999.
