Established in 1998, the Apra Margaret Fuhry Award is given to an Apra member committed to the prospect development (PD) profession, based on leadership, mentorship and volunteerism. This year’s recipient is Selene Hur, manager of prospect development and research at the YMCA of Greater Toronto (the Y).

What follows is an email conversation between fellow Fuhry awardee Jeff Walker (2004) and Hur. Learn how she entered the profession, what keeps her inspired, her advice for those new to the PD community and more.

What path(s) did you follow into our profession — and your role at the Y?

I learned about the world of not-for-profit (NFP) charitable organizations during my undergraduate years at the University of Waterloo. I completed a bachelor of arts in studio fine arts, with a specialization in cultural management (a.k.a. arts administration). As part of my studies, I had several fundraising internships at NFP arts organizations.

Some years after graduation, I was working at Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) and that’s where I discovered prospect research. My role was focused on donor relations, but my curiosity about our donors and special event attendees turned me into an informal researcher. I was eager to learn more about our supporters and share that information with my colleagues. I asked management to add prospect research to my official responsibilities and was fortunate to be given a budget for three in-depth training sessions with a research consultant. That really helped to build up my foundational knowledge.

After a few years at NBS, the Y opportunity surfaced. They were revamping the fundraising department, with a focus on building the major gifts team. I applied and was hired to establish the Y’s first prospect research and stewardship operation. As the team grew and evolved, I asked to refine my job so I could focus on prospect development — I realized that is where I’d be happiest. I’ve been the solo PD professional on our team for more than 15 years, and it stays interesting because of many wonderful colleagues, the variety of work and quite a bit of autonomy.

If you could go back in time and talk with your younger self, how would you describe your work in philanthropy – both as a PD professional and as an instructor? What do you love the most about it? What are some of the fun surprises that keep you inspired?

It’s my way of helping to make the world a better place. PD work helps NFPs succeed in their mission and also connect like-minded community members, organizations and resources so they can have an even bigger positive impact together. Teaching sparks interest in our profession, uncovers hidden talent and enables others to be successful in their careers.

I love the whole adventure, from the creative problem solving to the success stories. I follow the breadcrumbs, determine how best to enhance our fundraisers’ solicitations and draw inspiration from our constituents — who come from all walks of life and bring their resilience, determination and different achievements.

How did you learn you had been selected for the Fuhry Award, and what was your first reaction?

I received an email from Apra HQ and was absolutely stunned. I knew I had been nominated — and felt so honored already by that meaningful gesture! But, given the wealth of talent and the countless individuals in the Apra community who are such generous volunteers, I didn’t think I’d actually be selected.

How has the grant helped you?

Without it, I wouldn’t have attended Apra PD in Seattle. I’m always open to learning, and that event was a great opportunity to learn from others and appreciate innovative approaches: what’s new and trending, what can be adapted for the Y and how what I’m doing is on track with best practices. I was also reenergized by reconnecting with peers and fellow volunteers — many of whom I had only interacted with online — in the pre-conference when I taught at Apra Fundamentals; at the opening reception; and between sessions. I also enjoyed meeting new people to expand my network.

What does the Apra community mean to you? Do you have any favorite stories about being such an active presenter, volunteer and mentor?

There are so many supportive individuals — welcoming and encouraging, happy to help and always ready to celebrate your successes with you. Apra is a resource I can always count on.

Public speaking was never one of my strengths, but I kept forcing myself to do it a little bit at a time: whether it was presenting a webinar, leading a small committee or presenting in-person at conferences. Each time, I would refine how I prepared myself and then, after the fact, reflect on how I did. The turning point was when I presented at an Apra Canada conference and, for the first time, did not get the usual post-presentation jitters. And then I had the chance to present at Apra PD. I was overjoyed when an attendee came up to me afterward and complimented me on being “a natural presenter.” I’m still a work-in-progress though!

What advice would you offer for our new community members?

If you’re not already involved, consider volunteering. Many areas of interest and many options are available, and you can always test the waters with a short-term commitment. Volunteering is the best way to expand your network and augment your current skill set, while helping to strengthen our Apra community. Check out new opportunities whenever they arise, and, if you’re not able to commit now, work toward doing so in the future. And, if you’re asked to participate or volunteer, don’t be too quick to decline. Try saying “yes,” even when — or especially when — it’s not in your comfort zone. Sometimes we need that extra nudge to help us overcome our fears. The Apra community is very supportive and a safe place to try new things and share your ideas.

Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD
Senior Strategic Research Officer, Office of Advancement, Simmons University

Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD, is the (fully remote) senior strategic research officer for Simmons University's Office of Advancement and has been a prospect development professional since August 1998. He is also a longtime member of the Apra Content Development Committee, a former Apra Wisconsin president and a current advisory board member for the Wisconsin chapter.