Happy 2025 to all! The beginning of the year always comes with reflection and resolutions. What do I want to work on this year? What do I want to learn?

One of the many wonderful things about Apra is that there are plenty of opportunities to figure out answers to these questions!

Apra has a full year of educational programming ahead, starting with Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research, happening virtually February 24, 26 and 28. This program holds a special place in my heart because I was involved as a faculty member for seven years.

The program has grown and evolved with time, as our work always does, but continues with the same goal: to provide an introduction (or refresher) to prospect development work. The program offers asynchronous learning and an online community leading up to virtual sessions where you can meet and interact with your cohort and faculty. This is a safe space to learn among peers and ask the questions you might not want to raise to your mentor or manager. Rachael Walker, a faculty member for this year’s cohort, put it best: “In my career, I've learned more by talking to other people. This is the value of Apra Fundamentals — it goes beyond watching a webinar. These are live sessions that let you interact with people and ask questions.” If you or someone on your team would benefit from joining the program, follow this link to learn more!

I remember the first time I was part of the Apra Fundamentals faculty, then known as New Researchers Symposium. My fellow faculty members Michael Quevli and Liz McHugh (legends, both of them!) shared with the room that everyone will learn something new, including faculty members. It was true! Every time I was part of the program, I learned from everyone in the room. We all come to this work with different experiences and have something to share. I would like to give a shout-out to all of the faculty and participants over the years that have made Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research such a success.

I am also excited to share a new educational program that Apra will launch in Baltimore at Prospect Development 2025 conference — Apra Fundamentals: Relationship Management! Building on the success of Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research, we are expanding the offering with a new course focused on relationship management, a priority for so many in our profession. A group of Apra volunteers has been working hard to bring this course to our members. More information to come on that soon!

As we settle into another year of learning and community, I hope you find paths that enrich your professional and personal life. There are so many ways to connect with fellow Apra members, the people who understand your successes and challenges. Keep an eye on the event calendar for more opportunities — I look forward to seeing you at one of these, online or in person!

Anne Brownlee
President, Apra; Managing Director of Prospect Strategy and Research, Teach For America