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Blackbaud Introduces Lantern™, the First Domain-Specific Language Model Purpose-Built for Fundraising

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85% of social impact professionals use AI; only about 10% of organizations see significant returns. Lantern is built to close that gap, developed through a strategic collaboration with Databricks.

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB), the world’s leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact, today at bbcon 2026 unveiled Lantern™, the first domain-specific language model purpose-built to optimize fundraising intelligence.

The social impact sector is being underserved by large language models. While 85% of social impact professionals say they are using AI in their daily jobs, only about 10% of organizations are realizing significant dividends on their investment. Blackbaud has entered a strategic collaboration with Databricks to ensure the social impact sector gets the best outcomes from AI. Lantern is built on more than four decades of experience in fundraising workflows, decisions, and results, so that it understands giving behavior rather than buying behavior. This gives social impact organizations tailored intelligence to help them raise more so they can continue solving society’s most pressing challenges.

“Every organization has access to powerful AI, but frontier models learn from the internet, while Lantern learns from philanthropy,” said Mike Gianoni, president, CEO and vice chairman of the board of directors, Blackbaud. “With more than $100 billion raised, granted or managed through our platforms every year, Blackbaud has deep expertise on social impact and generosity, including why, when and how people give. Lantern understands fundraising goals, donor dynamics and nonprofit priorities in ways general-purpose AI doesn’t and puts actionable intelligence into the hands of fundraisers so they can make the best-informed decisions.”

Frontier AI meets fundraising expertise  

Working with Databricks, Blackbaud is combining leading open-weight models on the Databricks Data + AI Platform with more than 40 years of social impact intelligence. Lantern is post-trained on synthetic scenarios modeled on Blackbaud’s comprehensive Social Impact Signal Graph™ to reflect real-world fundraising patterns and bring the unique complexity of fundraising to the model. This flexible approach enables Lantern to evolve as technology advances. 

“There is an enormous opportunity for the philanthropy world to benefit from AI, but seeing returns requires the right data, context and governance,” said Andy Kofoid, president, global field operations, Databricks. “Together, Blackbaud and Databricks are giving nonprofits the data foundation they need to scale their fundraising and maximize their real-world impact.”

Lantern is developed under Blackbaud’s Responsible AI principles with privacy, transparency and sector-appropriate governance at its core to serve the unique needs of social impact organizations.

A model that supports social impact

Lantern understands the rhythms of fundraising, including how relationships are built, nurtured and transformed into generosity. It can illuminate opportunities that might otherwise go unseen, helping social impact organizations navigate complexity, uncover new possibilities and focus their energy where they can create the greatest impact. It reflects the importance of things like retention, upgrade paths and lifetime relationships, all of which are central to fundraising but not native to general-purpose AI models.

“The future of AI isn’t about who has the largest model; it’s about who best reflects the world their customers operate in,” said Carrie Cobb, chief data and AI officer, Blackbaud. “Lantern was purpose-built to reflect fundraising, leveraging decades of sector expertise with the intelligence embedded in Blackbaud’s Social Impact Signal Graph. The result is trusted intelligence that is more relevant, more transparent and more actionable because it understands the relationships, behaviors and opportunities that drive impact for our customers. The sector doesn’t need more AI. It needs AI designed to support social impact.”

Lantern is being built with input from Blackbaud customers including Boston University, Hesed House and YMCA of the North to support the outcomes frontline fundraisers want to achieve.

“Every industry has its own language, expertise, decision-making processes, rules and guardrails,” said Tim Cerato, assistant vice president, constituent relationship management, Boston University. “One of the biggest unlocks for AI is its ability to understand those nuances and amplify the effectiveness of the people doing the work. We see tremendous potential in technologies that augment the knowledge and expertise of our teams, expanding what people can accomplish and allowing them to focus their energy on the work that drives the most meaningful outcomes.”

Availability

Lantern will be embedded within Blackbaud’s Platform for Good™, bringing fundraising intelligence directly into the solutions organizations use every day to engage supporters, grow generosity and advance their missions.

Lantern will begin powering select Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT® and Agents for Good™ capabilities in 2027, with broader availability planned across Blackbaud’s Platform for Good.

About Blackbaud

Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB) is the world’s leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact. Serving nonprofits, educational institutions, companies committed to corporate social responsibility, and individual change makers, Blackbaud propels impact at scale with the sector’s most intelligent solutions for fundraising and engagement, education solutions, financial management and CSR and grantmaking. With the deepest expertise powered by the world’s largest philanthropic data set, the most connected workflows, and the most powerful impact network, Blackbaud’s solutions are building a future where resources are unleashed at the speed of need. Blackbaud has been recognized by Fast Company, Newsweek, Quartz, Forbes and more for AI innovation, responsible leadership and workplace excellence. Blackbaud has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, India and the United Kingdom, supporting users in 100+ countries. Learn more at www.blackbaud.com or follow us on X/Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media Inquiries

media@blackbaud.com 

Forward-looking Statements

Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements regarding expected benefits of products and product features. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following: general economic risks; uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; management of integration of acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; risks associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks associated with management of growth; lengthy sales and implementation cycles; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or upon request from Blackbaud’s investor relations department. All Blackbaud product names appearing herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackbaud, Inc.

 

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SOURCE Blackbaud

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Dr. Kerry Evans Scholarship for Sciences Announces 2027 Application Cycle for Undergraduate Students Across the USA

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SEGUIN, Texas, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Dr. Kerry Evans Scholarship for Sciences officially opens its application period for the 2027 cycle, inviting undergraduate students nationwide to submit their credentials for consideration.

The scholarship serves as a platform to recognize students who view science not merely as a subject of study, but as a collaborative endeavor with far-reaching societal implications. By providing financial assistance and public recognition, the Dr. Kerry Evans Scholarship aims to alleviate some of the burdens associated with higher education, allowing recipients to focus more intently on their research and academic goals.

Eligibility for the award requires applicants to be currently enrolled undergraduate students at an accredited U.S. institution. Candidates must pursue a degree in a science-related field and maintain a strong academic record, evidenced by official transcripts. Additionally, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Dr. Kerry Evans brings over two decades of experience in high-pressure medical environments to this philanthropic effort. As a dedicated emergency room physician, he understands the importance of precision, dedication, and continuous learning.

Applicants must submit a 1,000-word essay addressing the specified prompt, official transcripts from their current institution, and letters of recommendation from professors or qualified professionals who can attest to their academic potential. All materials must be sent to apply@drkerryevansscholarship.com by the deadline of May 15, 2027.

The winner of this one-time award will be announced on June 15, 2027. This timeline allows the selection committee ample time to review submissions thoroughly and ensure that the recipient truly embodies the spirit of scientific curiosity and academic diligence.

For those interested in learning more about the requirements or the vision behind the initiative, detailed information is available at https://drkerryevansscholarship.com/.

About the Dr. Kerry Evans Scholarship for Sciences

The Dr. Kerry Evans Scholarship for Sciences was established by Dr. Kerry Evans, a seasoned emergency room physician with a deep commitment to education and healthcare advancement. Founded to support undergraduate students pursuing science-related degrees, the organization aims to reduce financial barriers and encourage academic excellence. Its core mission is to inspire the next generation of scientists by recognizing their potential and providing the resources necessary to achieve their professional goals.

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SOURCE Dr. Kerry Evans Scholarship

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EssilorLuxottica unveils Nuance Audio™ Plus, the next generation of hearing glasses

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Enhanced audio experience, extended battery life, calls answered directly from the glasses, and an expanded range of styles bring invisible hearing support to more everyday moments.

NEW YORK, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — EssilorLuxottica announces the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its first-of-its-kind invisible, open-ear hearing glasses, FDA-cleared for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Building on the launch of the first Nuance Audio Glasses, the new product combines improved audio performance, extended battery life, calls answered right from the glasses, a category-first, and an expanded assortment of styles, transforming a medical device into stylish yet functional eyewear to support people naturally throughout everyday life.

Hearing loss affects an estimated 1.6 billion people worldwide, approximately 1.25 billion of whom live with mild to moderate hearing loss1. Yet close to 90% of this population has not adopted a hearing solution2. By seamlessly integrating hearing technology into everyday eyewear, EssilorLuxottica is helping address this significant unmet need through a solution that is virtually indistinguishable from a conventional pair of glasses. The original Nuance Audio glasses were named a TIME 100 Best Invention, reflecting the cateogry’s growing recognition, and established high-profile fans including Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian Jane Lynch. Nuance Audio Plus marks the latest step in the company’s continued investment in hearing innovation, expanding both the choice and performance available to consumers.

“The response to Nuance Audio Glasses has been extremely positive, confirming that consumers are looking for a more natural and desirable way to access hearing support,” said Stefano Genco, Global Head of Nuance Audio. “In just one year, we have expanded to 14 countries and more than 18,000 stores, reaching consumers who are, on average, five years younger than traditional hearing-aid customers, with two out of three having never explored traditional hearing aids. With Nuance Audio Plus, our new product generation, we are taking another important step toward making hearing support a natural part of everyday life.”

Nuance Audio Plus is designed to support people affected by perceived mild to moderate hearing loss across a range of scenarios: from those experiencing the first signs of hearing loss, for example, beginning to notice changes in their listening effort over time across a range of everyday situations, even under similar noise conditions, to those already aware of their hearing impairment and seeking a discreet hearing solution. Across scenarios, the product helps users stay engaged in conversations with a solution that looks and feels like everyday eyewear.

Complementing the existing Nuance Audio Glasses collection, which will remain available, Nuance Audio Plus expands the portfolio with optimized hearing technology, more intuitive on-frame controls, a broader range of frame designs and colors, and new options for charging on the go. Together, the two collections offer consumers greater choice across design, technology features, price points, preferences and lifestyles.

Nuance Audio Plus is available now in the United States, through authorized optical and hearing-care professionals, and online in selected countries. In the USA, the recommended retail price will start at $829, depending on the lens configuration.

Key features

Invisible hearing aid: Breaking the stigma with discreet, stylish glasses that seamlessly integrate vision and hearing support directly into the frame. Building on the distinctive open-ear technology of Nuance Audio Glasses, Nuance Audio Plus introduces further advancements in amplification, speech clarity in noise and own-voice perception, together with extended battery life of approximately 10 hours under average product conditions3.Directional amplification: Designed to enhance speech clarity through directional microphones and beamforming technology, helping users focus on the conversations in front of them.Easy to use: Simple to set up and manage through the intuitive Nuance Audio App, Nuance Audio Plus also features new on-frame controls, including a dedicated power switch and volume buttons conveniently positioned on the temples.Open-ear comfort: Lightweight, open-ear speakers integrated into the temples leave the ears free for long-lasting comfort. An expanded range of sizes, together with universal fitting and adjustable nose pads on selected styles, helps provide a secure and comfortable fit.All-in-one solution: A product designed to address both vision and hearing needs in one elegant device.Hands-free phone calls – Users can answer and manage voice calls directly from the frames when paired with a compatible iPhone4.

Styles and accessories

Nuance Audio Plus is available in three timeless frame styles – Square 53, Panthos 48 and Upturn 52 – and five colors, Shiny Black, Shiny Burgundy, Deep Blue, Amber and Olive Green.

The standard package includes a charging pad and USB-C cable to charge Nuance Audio Plus.

User experience

The glasses are easy to manage from the Nuance Audio App and feature on-frame controls for quick access to key functions, while a dedicated remote control is available separately.

With the app, users can control:

Audio modes: Switch between two audio modes: Frontal, to focus on face-to-face conversations, and All-Around, to amplify all surrounding sounds.Presets: Choose the pre-configured amplification settings (A, B, C or D) for a tailored hearing experience.Background noise: Customize the background noise level with three levels of noise reduction. Volume level: Adjust the volume of amplification on a scale from 1 to 5.

Lenses

Nuance Audio Plus can be fitted with any type of optical lenses to personalize to the wearer’s vision needs. The glasses can also be paired with Transitions® lenses, which adapt to changing light conditions to support an integrated hearing and vision experience throughout the day.

Useful links

Official website: www.nuanceaudio.comStore locator: www.nuanceaudio.com/store-locator Facebook: www.facebook.com/nuanceaudioofficialInstagram: www.instagram.com/nuance.audioLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/showcase/nuance-audioYouTube: www.youtube.com/@nuanceaudio

About EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of advanced vision care products, eyewear and med-tech solutions. The Group is home to the most innovative lens technologies, including Varilux, Stellest and Transitions, iconic brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley and Supreme, top-selling smart eyewear products including Ray-Ban Meta, Oakley Meta Vanguard and Nuance Audio, the most desired luxury licensed brands and world-class retailers including Sunglass Hut, LensCrafters, Vision Express and Apollo. With over 200,000 employees across 150 countries, 600 operations facilities, serving 300,000 eye care professionals and operating 18,000 stores, the Group generated consolidated revenue of Euro 28.5 billion in 2025. EssilorLuxottica trades on the Euronext Paris market and is included in the Euro Stoxx 50 and CAC 40 indices. Codes and symbols: ISIN: FR0000121667; Reuters: ESLX.PA; Bloomberg: EL:FP. www.essilorluxottica.com

1 World Health Organization, World Report on Hearing, 2021, p. 40.

2 Stevens G, Flaxman S, Brunskill E, Mascarenhas M, Mathers CD, Finucane M; Global Burden of Disease Hearing Loss Expert Group. Global and regional hearing impairment prevalence: an analysis of 42 studies in 29 countries. Eur J Public Health. 2013 Feb;23(1):146-52. doi: 10.1093/eurpub/ckr176. Epub 2011 Dec 24. PMID: 22197756.

3 Based on average product condition.

4 The product, as an MFI certified device, supports voice calls only when used with an iPhone (requires iOS 16 or later)

Media Contact:
Nuance Audio
nuanceaudio@factorypr.com

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SOURCE Nuance Audio

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Appspace Unveils Appspace Context™, a New Vision for a More Relevant and Responsive Workplace Experience

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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Appspace, the workplace experience company, today unveiled Appspace Context™, its vision for a workplace experience that understands employees and the environment around them, then responds as needs and conditions change.

Workplace technology is becoming more intelligent, but intelligence alone does not give it a full picture of the workplace. An employee’s role, location, schedule, and what is happening around them all help determine what they need. Much of that context exists today, but it is rarely brought together.

Appspace starts from a broader foundation, with a platform that already connects the digital and physical workplace. That gives Appspace context from across the workplace, including communications, content, spaces, visitors, signage, workplace activity, and connected systems. Appspace Context puts those connections to greater use, making each experience more relevant to the person, place, and situation. 

“For years, organizations have configured workplace technology around what they expect to happen. But the workplace doesn’t follow a script,” says Pete Schmied, CEO of Appspace. “Employees work from different locations, schedules change, spaces fill up, visitors arrive, and priorities shift. Appspace Context gives the workplace a way to recognize those changes and respond with what employees need in the moment.”

Announced at WOW26, Appspace’s annual workplace experience conference, Appspace Context gives customers a view into where the company is taking its platform. It also sets a direction for making workplace experiences more responsive as AI changes how employees interact with workplace tools.

How Context changes the workplace experience
Appspace Context puts workplace information and signals to use as employee needs and workplace conditions change. At WOW26, Appspace showed how that approach comes to life through Organic UI™ and Situational Signage.

Organic UI: moving beyond the fixed interface
A key part of Appspace Context, Organic UI™ uses context about the employee and situation to dynamically reconfigure the Appspace interface, bringing forward the information, tools, and actions that are most relevant while allowing less relevant elements to recede. That reduces the time employees spend searching, navigating between tools, and figuring out where to go to get something done.

“Traditional software interfaces rely on predefined navigation, modules, and workflows. Users have to find what they need regardless of what they are trying to do or what is happening around them,” says Thomas Philippart de Foy, Appspace Chief Innovation Officer. “Organic UI changes that. It uses context to bring forward the right information, tools, and actions, and can generate the experience needed for a specific task.”

Digital signage that responds to its surroundings
At WOW26, Appspace also announced and showcased Situational Signage, a capability that demonstrates how Appspace Context extends into the physical workplace.

Today, workplace teams typically program digital signage based on where a screen is located, how it is grouped, and rules they establish in advance. Situational Signage shifts the focus from the device to what is happening around it. Location, spaces, occupancy, visitors, and workplace activity will help determine what information is most relevant at a particular place and time.

Instead of relying only on a screen’s location and predefined rules, Situational Signage will allow the screen to respond as conditions around it change. Workplace teams can deliver more relevant communications without having to anticipate and manually configure every scenario.

More from WOW26
Appspace also introduced:

Appspace Migration Studio: Reduces the time and complexity of moving from legacy intranets to Appspace Intranet. Built on Appspace’s proven AI framework, Appspace Migration Studio automatically maps important content to its new home in Appspace and configures spaces with the appropriate governance controls, helping organizations preserve years of content and knowledge without rebuilding their intranet from scratch, and in a fraction of the time compared to traditional migration approaches.SwiftConnect integration: Brings mobile access into the connected workplace experience. The integration connects Appspace workplace experiences with SwiftConnect digital credentials in employees’ mobile wallets, so employees can plan their day, book a room, invite a guest, and access buildings, floors, and doors without moving between separate systems and processes.

“Organizations are making technology decisions today that will shape their workplaces for years,” adds Schmied. “The big opportunity here is to connect the physical and digital workplace so they work as one experience. AI raises the bar even further, making it possible for workplace technology to understand more about people, places, and context, and adapt accordingly.”

About Appspace
Appspace is the workplace experience company that helps organizations keep everyone in the know. From intranet and digital signage to space reservation and visitor management, Appspace connects your whole workplace. Trusted by more than 3,000 customers globally, including 180 Fortune 500 companies. Learn more at www.appspace.com.

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SOURCE Appspace, Inc.

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