Apra : Connections: In the Field

In The Field

Counting Our Achievements

By: Melissa Bank Stepno | Aug 12

In this quarter's President’s Message, Melissa Bank Stepno reflects on her tenure, Apra's many accomplishments over the past year and lessons learned along the way.

Ask the Ethicist: What’s the Harm In Using AI?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jul 28

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already engrained in our everyday lives, so implementing AI driven donor segmentation should be a no-brainer, right? Not exactly. Dive into these important considerations before automating your next fundraising strategy.

Apra Reviews: ‘Prospect Research #ChatBytes: A Podcast by and for Prospect Research Professionals’

By: Jennifer Huebner | Jul 21

In the market for a new prospect research podcast? Hear from Jennifer Huebner as she reviews Prospect Research #ChatBytes, diving into select episodes and how they can apply to your work.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture — Q2 2022

By: Emma Gassman | Jun 30

Discover what the different Apra chapters have been doing this quarter and learn more about upcoming events in the industry.

The Thrill of Being Together Again

By: Melissa Bank Stepno | Jun 2

Dive into this quarter’s President’s Message with Melissa Bank Stepno to learn about her experience representing Apra at AFP ICON, and how this experience is helping set the stage for returning to Prospect Development in Atlanta.

Ask the Ethicist: Is a Photo Worth 1,000 Headaches?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | May 12

The use of photos in fundraising databases and beyond can raise several ethical concerns in prospect research. Discover ways to help safeguard your organization while ensuring proper safekeeping and care of your constituents’ information.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture — Q1 2022

By: Emma Gassman | Mar 31

Discover what the different Apra chapters across the US have been doing this quarter and learn more about upcoming events in the industry.

Ask the Ethicist: Help! Seeking Due Diligence Guidance

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Mar 18

Is there an easy button for due diligence? Not exactly. But good news: the Ethics and Compliance Committee (ECC) has plenty of resources to guide you, and breaks down the basics in this column.

Research Pride: A Common Thread That Binds Us

By: Patricia (Suzi) Elzie-Tuttle, MLIS | Mar 15

How are you celebrating Research Pride month? Here, Patricia (Suzi) Elzie-Tuttle reflects on the power of prospect research, the opportunities this profession provides to others and the importance of "paying it forward" by supporting the Apra Foundation Professional Development Assistance Fund.

Ask the Ethicist: Is the Public Domain Fair Game?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jan 27

Have you ever found yourself in an ethical gray area when it comes to sourcing info from the public domain? The Apra Ethicist breaks down best practices and standards in this month’s column.

Call to Action: ‘Fill Your Fountain’ With Apra in 2022

By: Melissa Bank Stepno | Jan 12

In this message from Apra President Melissa Bank Stepno, discover different ways you can "fill your fountain" with Apra in 2022 by investing in yourself, maximizing your membership and supporting your community throughout the year.

Best of Connections 2021, Message From the Editor: Still In It

By: Jessica Balsam | Jan 4

Learn more about this year’s top articles — and related bonus reading — in this message from Apra EAC Chair Jessica Balsam.

Seasons of Apra to Look Forward To

By: Melissa Bank Stepno | Oct 28

Hear from Apra President Melissa Bank Stepno as she dives into the things she looks forward to the most in her new role. Learn more about Apra’s work on the DEI Data Guide, creating a new Strategic Plan, planning for the annual Prospect Development Conference and more.

Celebrating Ethics Awareness Month in October

By: Emma Gassman | Oct 7

Did you know October is Ethics Awareness Month? Discover resources from Apra around identity data, fundraising partnerships, campaign research, vendor due diligence and more, as well as videos and interviews from our partners at AFP.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture — Q3 2021

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Sep 23

Discover what the different Apra chapters across the US have been doing this quarter and learn more about upcoming events in the industry.

Ask the Ethicist: Return to Office

By: Ask the Ethicist | Sep 16

As many organizations head back to the office, discussions around COVID-19 experiences and concerns remain constant. The Apra Ethicist weighs in on what to consider when returning to the office, including compliance standards, HIPPA regulations and helpful guidelines.

FAQs From an Unprecedented Year: The Apra Ethicist Weighs In

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jul 22

An unprecedented year has raised unprecedented questions. In this Ask the Ethicist Column, the Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee gives advice on using the Federal Election Commission database, the best approach to “vaccine etiquette” and how to ethically report on race and identity.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture — Q2 2021

By: Monica Roselli | Jun 30

Check out the latest news from Apra chapters around the country and hear what they’ve been up to in Q2 2021.

Ask the Ethicist: Collaborative Fundraising

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | May 27

It’s not uncommon for many groups to partner with other organizations on a joint venture and be asked to share donor lists for cross-referencing purposes. But what are the ethics of using a third party to evaluate these lists? The Apra Ethicist weighs in on data sharing and security.

Where We Go From Here

By: Milagro Lobato | May 13

The past year has had a profound impact on us all. President Misa Lobato shares how 2020 impacted Apra and how, despite challenges, has led to reimagined events, high-quality education in the new Apra University system, data-driven decision-making resources, DEI initiatives and new goals for 2021.

Back to Basics: A Compact Library for Fundamentals Attendees and Everyone

By: Jessica Balsam | Apr 13

Whether you're just starting out in in the field, are a seasoned professional or just completed Apra Fundamentals and are looking for more content, be sure to check out these articles on the basics of prospect development.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture — Q1 2021

By: Monica Roselli | Mar 31

Learn the latest news from Apra chapters around the country and hear what they’ve been doing in Q1 2021.

Ask the Ethicist: DEI and Leadership

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Mar 18

While many groups are pushing for more diversity to help grow organizations, it can be difficult to see real change when the board of directors or leaders are not a diverse group of people. The Ethicist weighs in on DEI and leadership, and shares tips on how to make DEI an ongoing goal.

Ask the Ethicist: Internal Employee Campaigns and Research

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Feb 4

Is your organization considering launching a workplace campaign to encourage staff to give back? Or, have you been tasked with verifying the giving capacity of current faculty and feel unsure of the ethics behind it? The Apra Ethicist weighs in on internal employee campaigns and research.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture—Q4 2020

By: Monica Roselli | Dec 18

Catch up on the latest news from Apra chapters around the country and hear what they’ve been doing in Q4 2020.

Learning by Doing: Apra’s Inaugural Data Science Dashboard Challenge

By: Michael Pawlus | Nov 17

Apra recently held its very first data science challenge where participants were given a shared dataset and tasked with designing a dashboard. Hear from the winners about the challenge, working in teams and takeaways from participating.

Ask the Ethicist: Vendor Due Diligence

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Nov 5

Have you been noticing more notifications about incidents involving industry vendors and started to wonder how to avoid these situations at your own organization? The Apra Ethicist weighs in on vendor due diligence.

Message From the President: Two Bright Spots in a Challenging Year

By: Milagro Lobato | Oct 29

Apra President Misa Lobato sheds light on two Apra outcomes that have shone through the challenges of this year in the latest president’s message.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture—Q3 2020

By: Monica Roselli | Sep 24

Catch up on the latest news from Apra chapters around the country and hear what they’ve been doing in Q3 2020.

The Next Decade of Philanthropy: Your Opportunity

By: Apra Headquarters | Sep 17

In keeping with Apra’s goal of collaborating with thought partners to positively influence the industry, Apra hosted a plenary panel at #PDVE2020 to discuss shifts in the industry and the future of prospect development. Catch the recording here, which includes closed captions and a transcript.

Ask the Ethicist: #WFH Behavior

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Sep 3

As we’ve shifted into a work from home (WFH) era, more people are finding themselves on social media, interacting with fellow prospect developers. But, is it okay to be posting and discussing work-related content online? The Apra Ethicist weighs in.

Message From the President: Gearing Up for #PDVE2020 and Looking to the Fall

By: Bond T. Lammey | Aug 7

In this message from Apra President Bond Lammey, learn about financial resources and tools for our membership, #PDVE2020 updates and fall educational offerings to look forward to.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture – Q2 2020

By: Monica Roselli | Jun 30

Check out the latest news from Apra chapters around the country and what they’ve been doing in Q2 2020.

Ask the Ethicist: How Do We Prospect in Times of Crisis?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jun 18

Although the economy is in flux, there is still important development work to be done, particularly for health and basic needs fundraising. How do we prospect ethically without seeming opportunistic? The Apra Ethicist weighs in.

A Message From Our Apra Leaders

By: Apra Headquarters | Jun 3

Like many of you, we in Apra leadership and staff have been watching and experiencing recent events, including the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery, and the subsequent protests and social unrest across the globe, with sadness, horror, frustration, grief and anger.

Ask the Ethicist: How Do I Speak Up and Enact Change?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | May 14

In this edition of Ask the Ethicist, learn different strategies to make your voice heard in your organization. If you have ideas on how to improve your organization ethical procedures, but are unsure what to do next, follow these tips on how you can enact change.

Message From the President: Resources for the Present and Looking Ahead for Apra

By: Bond T. Lammey | May 8

Learn about Apra resources for navigating current situations and what's coming up this fall. Read the latest message from President Bond Lammey.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture – Q1 2020

By: Cristina Rivera-Bosques | Mar 26

Catch up with all the latest news on what Apra chapters around the country have been doing in Q1 2020.

Resources to Help Navigate Work and Life Around COVID-19

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Mar 23

As the Apra community navigates the evolving impact of COVID-19, Connections would like to provide just a few resources to help ground you in three areas: your career, the Apra community and work-life balance.

Ask the Ethicist: Concerned About the California Consumer Privacy Act

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Mar 19

The new California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) can affect your organization, even if you don’t operate in California. Learn simple steps to follow and ensure compliance.

Rest Easily With the Right Policies in Place

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Feb 6

Are you losing sleep trying to keep up with all of the recent industry changes? According to The Ethicist, the best way to relax is to ensure you have the right policies in place. Read how you can best prepare yourself and your colleagues.

What Are You Advocating For? Questions to Ponder When Embarking on the Advocacy Journey

By: Preeti Gill | Jan 21

It’s the start of a new decade, an opportune moment to re-energize our collective conversation around the topic of advocacy.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture—Q4 2019

By: Cristina Rivera-Bosques | Dec 18

Catch up with all the latest news on what Apra chapters around the country have been doing in Q4 2019.

Ask the Ethicist: Recent Headlines Have Left Me Speechless

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Oct 24

Recent investigations and whistleblower activity should remind prospect development professionals to revisit their organization’s policies regarding acceptance of contributions. This month, The Ethicist provides several questions to ask yourself to ensure your organization’s policies are thorough.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture – Q3 2019

By: Cristina Rivera-Bosques | Sep 20

Catch up with all the latest news on what Apra chapters around the country have been doing in Q3.

Ask the Ethicist: How Can I Create Policies to Avoid Negative Publicity?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Sep 5

When an organization makes headlines for a controversial ethical decision, it affects everybody in the organization, including prospect development professionals. Learn how you can implement clear policies to avoid negative publicity.

Prospect Development 2019 in Review

By: Lindsey Nadeau, CFRE | Aug 29

One month after Prospect Development 2019, Conference Planning Committee Chair Sarah Daly reflects on the major successes of the event, how it impacted Apra members and what she looks forward to for the 2020 conference in Washington, D.C.

Ask the Ethicist: Help! Did I Violate FEC Rules? (Update)

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Aug 23

I am so horrified to learn that Federal Election Commission (FEC) political contribution data is forbidden for use by nonprofit and higher education organizations for fundraising. Doesn’t every wealth screening company in our sector make use of this information? What’s an ethical researcher to do?

Get in on the Conversation: Notes from PD 2019 Group Discussions

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Aug 16

Catch up on the group discussions that took place at PD 2019, with this collection of recaps from attendees.

Apra PD 2019 Group Discussions

By: Rachael Dietrich Walker | Aug 16

The following is a recap of group discussions that took place at PD 2019. About 50 people gathered to discuss recruitment and talent management; policies and procedures; dreaming big; metrics in prospect development; and advocacy in action. Some highlights of the group discussions are shared here.

Apra DAS Group Discussion Recap: What Does “Big Data” Mean for Fundraising Analytics?

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Aug 16

The following is a recap of the group discussion that centered on “What Does ‘Big Data’ Mean for Fundraising Analytics?”, as part of the Data Analytics Symposium (DAS) at Prospect Development 2019. Check out more PD 2019 group discussions on Connections.

Apra DAS Group Discussion Recap: Climbing Mt. Data

By: Mirabai Auer | Aug 16

The following is a recap of the group discussion Taking the Next Step Up Mt. Data, as part of the Data Analytics Symposium (DAS) at Prospect Development 2019. Check out more PD 2019 group discussions on Connections.

Apra DAS Group Discussion: Experimental Data Science - Lessons from the Lab

By: Jason Michael Cherry | Aug 16

The following is a recap of the group discussion, “Experimental Data Science - Lessons from the Lab,” from the Data Analytics Symposium (DAS) at Prospect Development 2019. Check out more PD 2019 group discussions on the Connections homepage.

Ask the Ethicist: Communication Between College Admissions and Fundraisers

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jul 25

Is it ethical for college fundraisers to speak with admissions officers regarding children of wealthy donors? Learn more about the specifics of student privacy and fundraising in this “Ask the Ethicist” column.

An Interactive Guide to Prospect Development Site Visits

By: Lindsey Nadeau, CFRE | Jul 11

Stuck and need a new perspective? Site visits are a great opportunity to network and gain inspiration. Check out our interactive guide to understand the building blocks and benefits of this valuable activity.

Apra Connections Chapter Capture — Q2 2019

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Jun 21

Catch up with all the latest news on what Apra chapters around the country have been doing in Q2.

Ask the Ethicist: Dos and Don’ts of Salesforce Chatter

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | May 20

Implementing new technology, such as Salesforce’s chatter function, can offer exciting opportunities for keeping track of your data. But how can you be sure to use these functions ethically?

The Body of Knowledge and You: Using Project Management Tools to Improve Relationship Management Initiatives

By: Heather Marzynski | Apr 18

Gain tips for how to use project management tools to further relationship management projects.

Apra Chapter Capture – Q1 2019

By: Emma Frey | Mar 28

All over, Apra chapters are organizing events that highlight industry innovation, information and connection. Learn what Apra chapters have been doing this quarter, and discover upcoming events you can pencil into your schedule.

Ask the Ethicist: Can We Accept Donations From Cannabis Companies?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Mar 21

The cannabis industry is a new industry and the laws are confusing and complex, particularly in the United States. What are the ethics of accepting donations from cannabis companies? The Apra Ethicist weighs in.

A Defense of Donor-Advised Funds: We Believe DAFs Are Our Future

By: Bond Lammey and Lindsey Nadeau | Mar 13

Two passionate prospect development professionals respond to some criticisms of donor-advised funds.

Going Above and Beyond: An Interview With Michael Quevli, Apra Distinguished Service Award Recipient

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Feb 21

Certain Apra members who choose to go above and beyond in the prospect research field are recognized with the annual Apra Awards. We feel these inspiring overachievers have a lot to teach us, so we decided to pick the brains of the 2018 winners in a new interview series.

Going Above and Beyond: An Interview With Stephen Rowe, Apra Margaret Fuhry Award Winner

By: Amelia Bowen | Feb 1

Ask the Ethicist: Can I Use Leaked Information?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jan 24

Should you use the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists’ database to research your prospects? The Ethicist weighs in on the ethics of using information that wasn’t intended to be public.

Apra Chapter Capture – Q4 2018

By: Emma Frey | Nov 29

Learn what Apra chapters have been doing this quarter, and discover upcoming events you can pencil into your schedule.

Remembering Natalie Larmon: Leader, Colleague, Friend

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Nov 28

Active Apra member Natalie Larmon sadly passed away on Oct. 31. Here, her colleagues remember her impact.

Retaining Your Prospect Development Staff: 5 Best Practices

By: From DonorSearch | Oct 25

Prospect development is an incredibly important feature for any organization relying on donations for its operations. Make sure you know the basics of prospect development and its uses for nonprofit organizations.

Apra Chapter Capture – Q3 2018

By: Emma Frey | Sep 27

Learn what Apra chapters have been doing this quarter, and discover upcoming events that you can pencil into your schedule.

Ask the Ethicist: Is Prospect Research 'Creepy'?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Aug 2

For someone on the outside looking in, prospect research can seem invasive. How can we convince folks that prospect research is valuable and ethical? The Ethicist weighs in.

Apra Chapter Capture – Q2 2018

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Jul 3

Learn what Apra chapters have been doing this quarter, and discover upcoming events that you can pencil into your schedule.

Ask the Ethicist: Is Sharing Caring?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | May 3

Is it ethical to share what you know about a prospect you knew from a prior organization with your current organization? The Ethicist weighs in.

Ask the Ethicist: Criminal Allegations

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Mar 15

If your Big Time Principal Gift Prospect is charged with illegal activity, how should you proceed? The Ethicist weighs in.

It Could Happen to You: Giving Back to Apra

By: Elizabeth McHugh and Michael Quevli | Mar 6

Two longtime presenters share their best tips for speaking, along with why they do so in the first place.

Apra Chapter Capture – Q1 2018

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Mar 1

Learn what Apra chapters have been doing this quarter, and discover upcoming events that you can pencil into your schedule.

More Than a Buzzword: Why Data Matters to Prospect Development

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Feb 26

We spoke with Renée M. P. Teate, data scientist and keynote speaker at this year’s Apra Data Analytics Symposium, to learn why data science is important to the field of prospect development.

Prospect Research Questions Every Beginner Should Know

By: Anne C. (Givens) Hofmann | Jan 30

In order to gain a crucial deep understanding of a prospect, these are the questions you need to ask.

Ask the Ethicist: Using Net Worth in Research Profiles?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Jan 25

Is it ethical to use net worth in a research profile? If so, when and how? The Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee weighs in.

Apra at 30: Stories From Jacqueline Robbins

By: Emma Frey | Dec 12

In honor of Apra's 30th Anniversary, the Connections team has reached out to Apra members who have dedicated years to the organization, and asked them a few questions regarding all things Apra: past, present and future. This week, hear from longtime Apra member Jacqueline Robbins.

Apra Chapter Capture

By: Emma Frey | Dec 7

BOK Stories: How Apra Members Advance Their Careers With the Body of Knowledge

By: Emily Schmitt | Dec 1

The Apra Body of Knowledge (BOK) is a comprehensive tool that helps individuals and their managers identify growth opportunities and ensure they have the knowledge and resources to excel. Learn how several Apra members are utilizing the BOK in their roles and organizations.

Ask the Ethicist: Giving Conditions?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Nov 28

Under what conditions is it acceptable to share information? The Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee weighs in.

Apra at 30: Stories From Helen Brown

By: Emma Frey | Nov 8

Apra at 30: Stories From Anne Mayer

By: Emma Frey | Oct 26

Pitch Yourself

By: Jessica Balsam | Oct 2

The opportunity to change — and update — outside perceptions about your role is right in your hands. The key is being ready to speak up when the time is right. One great way to do this is to create your very own pitch.

Apra Chapter Capture

By: Emma Frey | Sep 28

All across the world, Apra chapters are organizing events that highlight industry innovation, information and connection. Learn what Apra chapters have been doing this quarter, and discover upcoming events that you can pencil into your schedule.

Ask the Ethicist: Oversharing Donor Information?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Aug 24

How should one deal with a fundraising volunteer who overshares donor information? The Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee weighs in.

Apra at 30: Stories From Christine Mildner

By: Emma Frey | Jul 27

Apra at 30: Stories From Michael Quevli

By: Emma Frey | Jul 13

Apra Chapter Capture

By: Emma Frey | Jun 1

Apra’s Data Analytics Symposium: Analytics that Work for Me!

By: Glenda Carnate | May 3

This year’s Data Analytics Symposium, held during Apra’s Prospect Development 2017, offers a wide variety of sessions for analytics professionals. Here, I share my journey with analytics – including my lessons learned – and how the symposium can help you with yours.

Ask the Ethicist: Sharing Donor Information?

By: Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee | Apr 19

Is it ever appropriate to share donor information with colleagues outside of your organization? The Apra Ethics & Compliance Committee weighs in in this first in a series of columns titled "Ask the Ethicist."

This Is Pride

By: Helen E. Brown | Mar 9

March is Prospect Development Pride Month, and boy do we have a lot to be proud of. .. We are actively motivated to learn something new every day. And we are generous in sharing tips, methods and resources with each other.

I mean, really. Does a profession get much better than that?

Apra Scholarship

By: Karla Y. Davis | Feb 13

Jennifer Peplinski was “flabbergasted and surprised” when she learned she had won the Apra Scholarship — so surprised, in fact, that she woke her dog as she worked from home.

Apra Professional of the Year Award

By: Susan H. Faraone | Feb 13

“I am very flattered to win this award, but really, everything we do is a team effort,” said John McBride, associate director of prospect research at the University of Chicago and recipient of Apra’s 2016 Professional of the Year Award.

Apra Distinguished Service Award

By: Rebecca Fullmer | Feb 13

Enterprising, skeptical and communicative: These are three words that Jessica Balsam, associate director of prospect management at the University of Washington, uses to describe herself.

The Apra Foundation Margaret Fuhry Grant

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Feb 13

Katie Ingrao, assistant director of prospect management at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, is this year’s winner of the Margaret Fuhry Grant. The award recognizes her leadership, mentoring, volunteer spirit and dedication to professional development.

In-depth analysis, case studies, trend pieces and how-to topics.

Commentary, Q&As and reviews of books and other relevant resources.

Timely news and updates from Apra chapters and committees.

Infographics, data and metrics relevant to the Apra community.

Background and links to the experts contributing their intelligence to Apra.