Partnership and collaboration were the buzzwords at the electronic town hall plenary on philanthropic leadership held at the Council on Foundations annual conference. The presentation, led by AmericaSpeaks and sponsored by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Microsoft, and the McCormick Tribune Foundation, gave participants a chance to discuss and prioritize how they, as representatives of the nonprofit world, might take collective action to improve society and influence the next president.

Carol Lukensmeyer, founder and president of AmericaSpeaks, led the discussion, as participants keyed in their responses from their tables.

In response to a question for how foundations could have the most impact, the top answer from those gathered in the room was to “create strategic partnerships, collaborate across sectors, and get egos out of the way.” Participants also said nonprofit groups should find ways to impact public policy; take risks, be bold, and invite innovation; and share knowledge and ideas across organizations.

The second discussion question dealt with how the next president could use the strength, capacity, and leadership of the philanthropic sector. Some foundation leaders felt that governments do not clearly understand their work or goals, and that philanthropy needs more representation in government.

“We need a seat at the table,” said Lauren Williams, donor-relations director at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, in Gulfport, Miss.