As I step into the role of President of Apra, I’m excited and inspired by the path before us. Prospect development has always been about more than data; it’s about connecting people, ideas, and resources to fuel philanthropy. Today, our work is not just relevant; it’s essential. 

Over the course of my board service, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful our community can be when we think strategically. Together, we refined Apra’s DEIBJA commitments to better reflect the values of our members, and we elevated data as a cornerstone of our profession. Just as importantly, we shifted our conversations toward a long-term vision. These experiences convinced me of one thing: our profession thrives when we maximize our work, not only in what we do individually, but in how we collaborate and lead collectively. 

This year, Apra is entering an exciting season of growth and change. With the Association and Conference Group (ACG) as our new management partner, we are gaining fresh perspectives and new operational support. At the same time, we will be launching a new strategic plan that charts the course for our future. Shaped by the voices of our community, this plan will position Apra to adapt, innovate, and continue to lead with purpose. 

As I look ahead, my presidential charge is guided by four priorities: 

Building Bridges. Prospect development must not live behind the scenes. We are strategic partners, and it’s time we fully claim that space across the philanthropic enterprise. 
Championing Inclusiveness. Our strength lies in the diversity of our voices. Every professional, at every level, should see themselves reflected in Apra’s vision and mission. 
Leading with Ethics. In an era of abundant and heavily scrutinized data, ethical practice is not optional; it is what sustains the trust that philanthropy is built on. 
Embracing Innovation. From AI to analytics, new technologies are reshaping our field. Apra members must not wait for change; we must lead the way in turning these tools into insight and impact. 

These priorities are more than goals. They are bridges between where we stand today and the future we envision for prospect development. 

Most of all, I want to thank you, the members. Your expertise, curiosity, and commitment are what make Apra thrive. I am excited to serve alongside you, and I look forward to the extraordinary future we will build together. 

Sharise Harrison, Apra President
President, Apra; Assistant Vice President, Advancement Services, Sacramento State University

Sharise Harrison (she/her) is a dynamic leader in the field of prospect development, currently serving as Apra International President. She is also the Assistant Vice President of Advancement Services and Prospect Management at Sacramento State University, Senior Consultant at The Inclusion Firm, and Board Member of Zion Girls. She has held leadership roles at Loyola University of Chicago, Grenzebach, Glier, and Associates (GG+A), Santa Clara University, Teach for America, and University of Kentucky, Healthcare. Additionally, she served in prospect development roles at Women for Women International, Georgetown University, and Howard University. Sharise has been involved with Apra since 2009, when she attended and presented at her first Prospect Development conference. Since then, she has continued to contribute significantly to the organization's mission, serving on the APRA board since 2022 and holding leadership roles in governance, data science, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Sharise's commitment to APRA extends beyond board service; she has also shared her expertise through presenting numerous workshops for Apra International and its chapters. Additionally, Sharise has served in key roles such as Apra Foundation Trustee, Chair of the Apra Awards Committee and Data Science Curriculum Planning Committee, and as a member of the Data Science and Nominations Committees. In addition to her contributions to Apra, Sharise is a published author of articles on Prospect Development for Connections and has been profiled in The Chronicle of Philanthropy. Through her writing and speaking engagements, Sharise advocates for the use of data and technology to create more inclusive, equitable, and efficient systems. Sharise earned her MA from Georgetown University, her BA from LaSalle University, and a Fundraising Operations Certificate from Rice University.