Keynote Speaker in Midland: Transformational Relationships for Nonprofit Growth
Jovan Glasgow delivering a keynote in Midland, Texas at the State of the Nonprofits Luncheon
On August 21, 2025, I had the honor of serving as a keynote speaker at the State of the Nonprofits Luncheon in Midland, Texas. Hosted by Midland Shared Spaces (MSS), this annual event convenes nonprofit leaders, volunteers, and community advocates to identify emerging priorities and shape the future of service in the region.
This year, one theme stood out above all others: Collaboration. And it was the perfect backdrop for my keynote address, Transformational Relationships: The Pathway to Progress in Disruptive Times.
Why Transformational Relationships Matter
Disruption has become a defining reality of our time. Whether economic, social, or organizational, disruption challenges how we lead and how we serve. Too often, our response is to withdraw — to isolate, protect resources, and “wait it out.”
But transformational leadership demands a different response. It calls us to lean into relationships that create lasting impact.
As I shared with the audience:
Transformation is a profound shift in beliefs that creates ripple effects in behaviors and outcomes.
Walls of isolation protect egos. Bridges of collaboration transform communities.
Transformational relationships are formed proactively, grounded in selfless commitment, and focused on a shared vision that is bigger than any one organization. They are what allow nonprofits — and the communities they serve — to move from survival to true progress.
Key Barriers to Collaboration
During the session, I outlined three common challenges that prevent organizations from fully embracing collaboration:
Ego & Misplaced Identity → When leaders confuse their role with the movement, resistance grows.
Scarcity vs. Impact Mindset → Scarcity shrinks our vision, while impact expands it.
Vision Too Small → Small visions don’t need partners; only big visions require collaboration.
When money is the mission, partnerships divide. But when impact is the mission, partnerships multiply.
Alignment with Midland’s Nonprofit Priorities
What struck me most was how aligned this message was with what the nonprofits of Midland had already expressed. Through MSS’s real-time exercise at the luncheon, collaboration emerged as the priority for the sector’s future.
This affirmed a truth I’ve seen across industries and geographies: progress in disruptive times depends on partnerships that are bigger than individual egos, organizations, or silos.
Continuing the Conversation: State of the Nonprofits Podcast
Shortly after the luncheon, I joined the State of the Nonprofits Podcast to dive deeper into the topic of transformational relationships.
Listen to the full episode here:
Transformational Relationships – State of the Nonprofits Podcast
The State of the Nonprofits series, produced by MSS in partnership with the Recording Library of West Texas, connects nonprofit professionals with stories, resources, and insights that strengthen collaboration across the sector. Each episode features leaders and experts who bring fresh ideas to the challenges facing our communities.
Gratitude for Midland
Speaking at the State of the Nonprofits Roundtable was not just an opportunity to share insights but to learn from the passion and dedication of the leaders in Midland. Their commitment to collaboration is a model worth celebrating and replicating nationwide.
Book Jovan Glasgow as Your Next Keynote Speaker
It was a privilege to serve as a keynote speaker in Midland, and I look forward to partnering with more organizations across Texas and beyond to ignite progress through purpose-driven leadership.
If you are looking for a motivational keynote speaker who can inspire transformation, drive collaboration, and equip your team to thrive in disruptive times, I’d be honored to serve your next event.
Learn more and book Jovan Glasgow
Photos Taken by Mancha Photography/MSS