Why bbcon Feels Like Summer Camp

Every fall, I pack my conference bag not just with chargers and notebooks—but with anticipation. bbcon has become my professional “summer camp,” a place where I reconnect with friends, meet new ones, and return home inspired, a little exhausted, and full of fresh ideas.
Thinking Outside of the (Profile Picture) Box
Many of us know each other through the Blackbaud Community or virtual user groups. But seeing people in person—often after years of online chats—is a fantastic experience. Whether we’re grabbing a coffee, comparing notes after a session, or organizing a group photo, bbcon brings our online connections into the real world.
As an introvert, these moments are surprisingly energizing. The conversations are rich and familiar, and I always leave feeling more connected than when I arrived.
Campfire Confidence: Growth Through Sharing
In true camp tradition, I’ve graduated from camper to counselor—presenting at bbcon as a panelist and speaker—but what keeps me coming back year after year is how much I learn as an attendee. The sessions, expert panels, and demos in the exhibit hall are packed with practical insights. Whether you’re discovering a new feature, seeing how another organization approaches a common challenge, or exploring creative ways to use automation tools, there’s a steady current of real-world knowledge flowing through every space.
Some of the most valuable learning happens in unplanned moments—when a speaker’s tip or an attendee’s question sparks an “aha” moment that you carry back to your own work. bbcon is full of these empowering moments.
Affirmation, Not Intimidation
Sometimes professional development can feel overwhelming—so much to learn, too many acronyms, not enough time. But bbcon doesn’t feel like that. It feels affirming. People cheer each other on. They ask thoughtful questions. They share generously. It’s a place where your curiosity is welcomed, and your contributions are heard.
From hallway chats to big-stage inspiration, every part of bbcon seems designed to recharge our commitment to this work—and remind us that technology, when aligned with mission, can truly amplify impact.
See You at Camp!
Like any great summer camp, bbcon goes by too quickly—but the connections and inspiration last long after the final session. When bbcon wrapped up last year, I immediately started looking forward to the next one, and I hope to see many of you in Philadelphia this year. Whether we cross paths at a session, a lunch table, or in the exhibit hall, I’m excited to reconnect, keep learning, and welcome new faces to our ever-growing community.