2025 NCG Annual Conference: Becoming Our Vision
Art & Culture
Arts & Culture
At NCG, we recognize that art and culture are not just expressions of change—they are blueprints for transformation. As Dwayne S. Marsh, NCG President & CEO, reminds us, “The future we seek is not just something to advocate for—it’s something we must embody, live into, and create. Art, music, and storytelling are the brushstrokes that reveal the unseen, the rhythm that shapes possibility, and the ink that pens a future yet to be imagined.”
This year, we are honored to feature an extraordinary local performer, Lydia Walker, to kick off our day together, guiding us to imagine boldly and act with purpose. We are also proud to partner with Marcus Books, the nation’s oldest Black-owned independent bookstore, to bring thought-provoking literature into our conference space, including books authored by our three main-stage speakers Prentis Hemphill (What it Takes to Heal), Vanessa Daniel (Unrig the Game), and Dimple Abichandani, (A New Era of Philanthropy).
Performing Artists
Lydia Walker | Music & Movement through the day As we close the day, Lydia Walker, a celebrated San Francisco-based singer, performer, and DJ, will provide the soundtrack to transformation. Through a curated set that reflects the vibrancy and resilience of San Francisco, Lydia’s music will carry us into the post-conference reception, infusing the space with rhythm, connection, and energy. Whether drawing inspiration from the Fillmore’s jazz legacy, disco sounds that accompanied 1970s queer activism or from new artists currently performing on the city’s stages, Lydia’s selections will evoke the journey of becoming and will set the tone for the conversations and collaborations ahead. In addition to DJing the reception, Lydia will curate a playlist for the conference, offering a backdrop to our reflections, breaks, and moments of connection throughout the day.
Curating Knowledge & Preserving Legacy
Marcus Books | Curating Knowledge, Preserving Legacy No vision for the future is complete without the voices of those who have paved the way. We are proud to welcome Marcus Books, the nation’s oldest Black-owned independent bookstore, as our on-site bookseller. For over 60 years, Marcus Books has been a center for Black thought, resistance, and imagination, offering books that challenge, inspire, and illuminate paths forward. They will provide a selection of books from our conference speakers as well as titles that deepen our collective work toward justice, equity, and belonging.
Featured Titles Include:
What It Takes to Heal
by Prentis Hemphill
A New Era of Philanthropy
by Dimple Abichandani
Unrig the Game
by Vanessa Daniel
In addition to these, Marcus Books will offer a curated selection of titles that resonate with our conference theme, providing attendees with resources to further their personal and professional journeys toward equity and justice.
As Dwayne Marsh puts it, “Our work in philanthropy is about transformation—not just deepening resources, but shifting narratives, relationships, and the way we see our place in the world. Art and culture help us hold that vision and move toward it with clarity and courage.”
Join us in celebrating art, music, and literature as essential forces in becoming the future we envision. This year’s conference will not only engage your mind, but awaken your vision, move your body, and call you to action.