Apra : Connections: Innovation

Innovation

Get a Sneak Peek at Thom Singer’s PD Keynote Presentation

By: Emma Gassman | May 26

In a world still distanced and remote, human connection matters now more than ever. We spoke with Thom Singer, Prospect Development 2022 keynote, on how building long-term and mutually beneficial relationships is the foundation for all we do in our lives and careers.

Addressing the Way We Use Data: Q&A With Apra Expanse Keynote Robert Wicks

By: Emma Gassman | Mar 4

Apra Expanse is around the corner! Get a preview of the event in this Q&A with keynote Robert Wicks on some of the most common ways individuals misuse data, Web3, and issues and challenges data scientists experience in prospect development.

Reimagining Team Leadership and Individual Growth: Thriving in Our New-ish Normal

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Feb 10

There’s no doubt the pandemic has changed the way we work. In this Q&A, hear from prospect development professionals on how they are learning to lead, engage with their teams and more in our new-ish normal.

Data Science Now: The Impact of Data Visualization

By: Emma Gassman | Sep 30

Data Science Now is around the corner (October 13-14)! Learn more about keynote Scott Berinato’s upcoming session, “The Competitive Imperative of Good Charts,” as he dives into the concept of data visualization, key steps to implement it within an organization and more.

Message From the President: 2 New Resources to Advocate For Our Profession

By: Milagro Lobato | Aug 26

Apra recently launched the DEI Data Guide and 2021 Salary Survey. Hear from Apra President Misa Lobato on how these new resources can help prospect development professionals make strides in creating a more just and equitable profession, as well as advocate for their own careers.

She Said, He Said: Let’s Talk About CRM Over Customization

By: Anne C. (Givens) Hofmann | Aug 13

How much customization is too much when it comes to a CRM? Anne and Matt Hofmann weigh in with their respective experience in fundraising and business analytics. Plus, learn why it’s worth leveraging the benefits of a new CRM for greater efficiency, ultimately increasing productivity and improving.

Q&A: A Closer Look at the DEI Data Guide

By: Emma Kathleen Aguirre | Aug 5

For prospect development professionals, the ethics of collecting data identity have become more common. In this article, gain a closer look into Apra’s recently released DEI Data Guide and how it came to life, its intended audience, how the guide should be used and more.

Sneak Peek: Apra Talks Will Help Explore Where Words Get in the Way

By: Amy J. Sullivan Modin, MPA | Jul 8

Communication can be hard, but words are important. That’s the premise of this year’s Apra Talks. Hear from three PD2021 speakers on why updating problematic terminology, establishing common definitions and advocating through brand positioning can help move prospect development forward.

An Inside Look: Working With the Office of the President

By: Anthony Parrish | Jun 18

A challenge at nonprofits is engaging their leader in fundraising. In this Q&A, Mala Hodgins, Princeton University assistant director of prospect development and research, shares what her team produces, how the past year impacted its work and tips for those working with their nonprofits’ leadership.

Navigating a Virtual World: One Apra Chapter President’s Story

By: Amy J. Sullivan Modin, MPA | May 20

In this special edition of Beyond Prospecting, Amy Modin, Connections Editorial Advisory Committee member, speaks with Renana Kehoe, NEDRA chapter president, about lessons learned as a first-year chapter president, professional development opportunities and how NEDRA has been engaging their members.

A Chapter Leader Finds Joy in Giving Back: Q&A

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Apr 22

For Emily Glinert, joining Apra has led to multiple opportunities to get involved on the chapter and international levels. Now the president of Apra Wisconsin, Glinert reflects on the unexpectedness of 2020, her advice for those new to the profession and more in this Q&A.

Career Advancement: How an Apra Chapter Became a Place to Grow

By: Katherine Scott | Apr 8

While many prospect development professionals turn to their coworkers and teams for guidance, meeting colleagues and participating in opportunities outside of the office is also important. Learn how Apra chapter involvement led Katherine Scott on a path to professional growth.

Apra Fundamentals: Looking Back a Year

By: Anthony Parrish | Mar 25

With this year’s Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research event just a few weeks away, we checked in with last year’s attendees to learn more about their experiences and key takeaways, as well as how the event helped shape some of the practices they use on the job today.

Racial Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Resources to Help You Get Started

By: Patricia (Suzi) Elzie-Tuttle, MLIS | Mar 11

Many prospect development professionals are finding themselves in conversations about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at their organizations. Learn more about resources you can utilize to further DEI education.

Diving In

By: Amy J. Sullivan Modin, MPA | Feb 25

After entering the prospect development field four years ago, Karrie Swanson has been diving into various aspects of Apra including webinars and conferences. Now she’s embarking on a new chapter of involvement — a SWARO regional chair. Learn more about Karrie and her new role in this Zoom interview.

Apra Reviews: ‘Philantherapy — Tales From Your Fundraising Therapist,' a Podcast by David Garamella

By: Emma Kathleen Aguirre | Feb 18

In this edition of Apra Reviews, Emma Aguirre reviews “Philantherapy — Tales From Your Fundraising Therapist,” a podcast by David Garmella in which he interviews leaders in nonprofits about challenges in fundraising.

Reflections on the Adventure of Philanthropy: Q&A

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Jan 28

After working more than 30 years in philanthropy, Laura Worcester recently retired. Learn more about her start in the industry, where she sees philanthropy going in the future and the valuable lessons she learned over the years in this Q&A.

Apra Fundamentals: Advice to My Former Self

By: Andillon Hackney | Oct 22

Current and past Apra Fundamentals faculty were polled for their collective wisdom on the question: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self upon entering this field? Read their timely advice on what ultimately led them down the path to success in prospect development.

IT and Research Partnerships: Enhancing Our Data Culture – Part 2

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Aug 27

In part two of the IT and Research Partnerships Q&A, UWM’s Ike Pahm and Jeff Walker discuss the impact and future of data culture, advice for their peers at smaller philanthropic organizations and what’s ahead for UWM campaigns.

IT and Research Partnerships: Enhancing Our Data Culture – Part 1

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Aug 20

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) had its second-best philanthropic year in fiscal 2020. UWM’s Ike Pahm and Jeff Walker discuss the IT and Research partnership that played a role in this success, as well as their teams’ collaborative efforts in part one of this Q&A series.

What’s On Your Shelf? Apra Members Review Their Recent Reads

By: Anne C. (Givens) Hofmann | Aug 6

While we currently can’t meet in-person to discuss industry topics, there are many books we can read and review. Check out this interactive set of book reviews and learn what fellow Apra members have been reading.

Apra Reviews: ‘Precision Prospect Development,’ by Nathan Fay

By: Andrea K. Heitz | Jul 30

In our latest Apra Review, we look at “Precision Prospect Development: How to Get a Seat at the Table and Be an Influencer,” by Nathan Fay, which touches on prospect development’s role in raising money and the value of individual and group integrity.

Goals, Growth and Games: Managing a Large Shop in Difficult Times

By: Natalie Spring | Jul 23

As COVID-19 continues to alter how work is done, the goals, growth and team interactions don’t have to stop. Natalie Spring and Sarah Mine of Duke University give insight into how they are managing a large shop in these difficult times and how the pandemic doesn’t have to be a setback for teams.

Pivoting Communication Strategies From the Epicenter of a Pandemic: A Q&A With the Mount Sinai Health System Development Team

By: Caitlin Young | Jun 25

Navigating donor and prospect relations in the middle of a pandemic is no easy task. Stephanie Rigione and Erin Greene of Mount Sinai Health Systems share how their teams joined forces to implement new strategies that kept donors engaged and what they learned from the experience.

Campaigns in Unprecedented Times: A Conversation About Learning From the Past

By: Jeanne L. Sharp | Jun 11

Building a comprehensive campaign has its challenges, especially in times of uncertainty. Jeanne Sharp and Tilghman Moyer discuss working on a campaign that saw starts and stops through 9/11 and a fraught presidential transition on campus, and what others can learn from it in the era of COVID-19.

Advancing the Field of Data Analytics: A Q&A With John Gough, University of Texas at Austin

By: Michael Pawlus | Jun 8

Data analytics within fundraising is ever-changing, so in order for it to succeed, it must be an institutional priority. Connections editorial committee member Michael Pawlus and John Gough discuss advancements in the field, lessons learned and what’s ahead for data analytics in this Q&A.

Apra Reviews: ‘Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts,’ by Kate Racculia

By: Lara Elise Tewes, MSLIS | Apr 30

Get Lara Tewes’ review of “Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts,” by Kate Racculia – a fictional story about a prospect researcher who faces some of the more controversial aspects of the job, such as confidentiality, ethics and social perception. See what Lara loved about this eclectic tale.

The Impact of Data Visualization With OverDRIVE/ Keynote Speaker Scott Berinato

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Mar 5

On March 23, Apra will host OverDRIVE/ 2020 in New Orleans. We spoke with keynote presenter and author Scott Berinato on his upcoming session, “The Comparative Imperative of Good Charts.” Learn importance of data visualization when giving numerically heavy presentations.

Apra Reviews: ‘Robot-Proof: Higher Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence’

By: Amanda Viehman | Feb 27

In this edition of Apra Reviews, Amanda Ward shares her thoughts on Dr. Joseph Aoun’s book “Robot-Proof: Higher Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” — a helpful read for anyone hoping to optimize their career in the age of artificial intelligence.

Life Beyond Research: Notes from an Unexpected, Inspiring Journey

By: Jeff Walker | Jan 9

For graduate student and former prospect development professional Paulette Bilby, lifelong education is the core of inner growth. Learn about her leap of faith out of the world of research and into the world of pastoral care.

Preparing for Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research—A Q&A with the Live Event Faculty

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Dec 17

Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research is the improved version of New Researchers Symposium. In this Q&A, the live event faculty members, Andillon Hackney, Ryan Frank, and Gareth Griffin, discuss this year’s opportunities.

Apra Reviews: ‘The Givers: Wealth Power, and Philanthropy in the New Gilded Age,’ by David Callahan

By: Gillian Sciacca | Dec 12

In this book review, prospect researcher Gillian Sciacca reflects on “The Givers” by David Callahan. Through case studies, Callahan explains how large-scale domestic giving has affected systemic change in the U.S.

Message from the President: Taking Action With Our Strategic Plan

By: Bond T. Lammey | Nov 21

Earlier in 2019 the Apra Board of Directors approved the organization’s three-year strategic plan. Hear from Apra President Bond Lammey on key elements recently discussed by the board and exciting initiatives underway to support the strategic plan.

Building In-House Bridges: Communication Tips from a Gift Officer and a Researcher

By: Jeff Walker | Oct 10

When several departments join forces to support one project, it’s important for everybody to be on the same page. In this Q&A, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Christina Makal McCaffery walks us through her guide to overcoming the challenges of inter-departmental communication.

Crafting a Narrative through Data Science: A Q&A with Brian Xu, Data Scientist at LinkedIn

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Oct 3

Today’s data scientists face the challenge of not only gathering data, but also representing the data accurately through well-written stories. In this Q&A, Plug in to Data Science keynote speaker Brian Xu previews his upcoming presentation, “Crafting a Data Story: U.S. Government Shutdown Impact.”

Apra Reviews: 'Generation Impact: How Next Gen Donors are Revolutionizing Giving'

By: Gillian Sciacca | Sep 26

Tap into the tech-savvy minds of millennial donors by reading 'Generation Impact: How Next Gen Donors are Revolutionizing Giving.' Discover innovative philanthropy trends that will engage this “Do Something” generation.

From the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Aug 6

The latest from our partners at the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP)!

Two Chapter Presidents, Across the Years: Reflections on Volunteer Leadership

By: Jeffrey A. Walker, PhD | Aug 1

With 15 years of friendship under their belts, Jeff Walker and Sarah Bernstein have a lot to share about their experience in the field and leading Apra Wisconsin. Learn about the changes they’ve witnessed, what they see on the horizon and more in this in-depth conversation.

Build Your Network, Help Grow the Profession — Get Involved With Apra!

By: Caroline Oblack Amy Turbes | Jun 26

Volunteering with Apra allows you to strengthen your network and give back to a passionate community. Learn more about the different volunteer opportunities available and check out the volunteer webpage for more information on how you can make a difference in the prospect development community.

Apra Reviews: “Gender Matters: A Guide to Growing Women’s Philanthropy,” by Kathleen Loehr

By: Thomas Turner | Jun 13

Kathleen Loehr’s book, “Gender Matters: A Guide to Growing Women’s Philanthropy” provides a closer look at how women philanthropists approach and engage with charities. Apra member Thomas Turner shares a review and top takeaways from the book.

Message From the President: Setting a Career in Motion With Apra

By: Mark N. Egge | Jan 14

Mark Egge, your 2019 Apra president, recently took a new job at Hamline University — an opportunity he believes came to life in part thanks to Apra and the colleagues he has met through the association over the years.

From the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

By: The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy | Nov 20

Apra members get special access to articles from the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP). This month, download articles on engaging physicians in philanthropy and service recovery.

Calling All Thought Leaders!

By: Susan H. Faraone | Nov 15

Do you have ideas, processes or observed industry trends to share with the Apra community? This may be your moment.

Mythbusting and Adjusting to the New Normal in Giving: A Q&A With Steve MacLaughlin

By: Kristin Frankiewicz | Sep 20

It’s time for a reality check. Are your fundraising approaches really working, or are they disconnected from reality? We spoke with Steve MacLaughlin, your 2018 Plug In keynote speaker, to learn about some of the more common myths in fundraising and how you can adjust to the “new normal” in giving.

Message From the President: Leadership Is Hard – And That's OK

By: Liz Rejman | Aug 29

Apra president Liz Rejman encourages you to take the next step in your professional development journey by seeking out volunteer and leadership opportunities within Apra.

Dealing With Change: A Reflection on ‘Switch’ From the Apra Advocacy Committee Book Club

By: Susan Hayes-McQueen | Aug 23

Change is hard, but the Apra Advocacy Committee found a book that can help prospect development professionals take positive steps forward.

Book Review: 'Data Science for Fundraising: Build Data-Driven Solutions Using R'

By: Thomas Turner | Jul 5

Whether you are hoping to have data analytics as part of your prospect development repertoire in the future or already have several seasoned analysts on your staff, you'll want to read "Data Science for Fundraising."

Message From the President: Get Moving, Make a Difference With Apra Walks 2018

By: Liz Rejman | Jun 25

Apra president Liz Rejman shares her excitement for the inaugural Apra Walks, a fundraising and "fun-raising" event that will take place during Prospect Development 2018.

From the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

By: The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy | May 31

Apra members get special access to articles from the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP). This month, download articles on creating a breakthrough case for your organization and how to keep high performers longer.

The Apra BOK Puts the 'Professional' in Professional Development

By: Susan H. Faraone | May 17

The best way to learn about the special knowledge and skills required for a career in prospect development is to become familiar with Apra’s Body of Knowledge.

From the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

By: The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy | Mar 22

The following are articles previously published in the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy’s journal, Healthcare Philanthropy. Apra members get special access to these articles as part of our partnership with AHP.

Book Review: 'Philanthropy in the Age of Big Data & Cognitive Computing'

By: Susan H. Faraone | Feb 20

The book "Big Good: Philanthropy in the Age of Big Data & Cognitive Computing" offers a broad and useful overview of the evolution, present state and future application of Cognitive Computing in the nonprofit sector.

Message From the President: Call for Board Nominations

By: Liz Rejman | Feb 15

Have you ever thought about serving on the Apra Board of Directors but weren’t quite sure about the path from member to director? Your 2018 Apra president shares insights.

From the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

By: The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy | Dec 5

The following are articles previously published in the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy’s Healthcare Philanthropy Journal. Apra members get special access to these articles as part of our partnership with AHP.

From the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy

By: The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy | Nov 14

Review: 'Giving USA 2017'

By: Thomas Turner | Oct 12

There is one comprehensive report that will greatly aid the prospect development professional in scouring for benchmark numbers and national and sector-wide giving trends: the 'Giving USA 2017' report from Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Discover What Drives You — and Others — at Plug In

By: Emily Schmitt | Sep 14

We spoke to Janice Cunning, CPCC, ACC, an experienced facilitator and certified coach specializing in nonprofit leadership development and coaching, about the ideas behind her Relationship Awareness Theory keynote session at the upcoming Plug In to Prospect Research.

30 Is the New...

By: Jill Meister | Sep 14

Apra Immediate Past President Jill Meister discusses the various upgrades Apra has experienced in the year of its 30th anniversary.

CoolData Delivers

By: Christine A Mildner, CFRE | Jun 22

CoolData blog is a resource for those who work with analytics, predicative modeling and related “cool data” information for higher education advancement. Author Kevin MacDonell's goal is to promote the use of data mining and predictive modeling, particularly in higher education advancement.

In Praise of Our Teachers, and One (Small) Request

By: Susan H. Faraone | Jun 15

As we thank our Apra colleagues who have volunteered to share their energy, expertise and valuable time by presenting something new to the rest of us, we encourage them to extend the reach of their presentation by turning it into an article for Connections.

Spending Money to Raise Money

By: Anne C. (Givens) Hofmann | Jun 8

With most nonprofits having limited resources, convincing your leadership to spend five, 10, even 15,000 dollars per year on research tools can be a hard sell. So how do we make the case to our leadership for dedicating these financial resources?

Apra’s Keynote Creates Change, and So Can You

By: Emily Schmitt | Jun 6

We recently spoke to Derreck Kayongo, keynote speaker at Prospect Development 2017, about the hard work and passion that led to his success. Read on for highlights of just some of the wisdom Kayongo shared, and discover how this year's conference can help you put his words into action.

Something Funny Happened on the Way to Being a Presenter

By: Cecilia Hogan | May 24

Nearly all presenters, almost without exception, have come to you with a small or big bundle of nerves, very much determined to do a good job by you, and to have you leave the presentation inspired and more knowledgeable about our work. Let's talk about how that went for a few of them.

Book Review: "Prospect Research in Canada: An Essential Guide for Researchers and Fundraisers"

By: Amy S. Turbes | Mar 29

“Prospect Research in Canada: An Essential Guide for Researchers and Fundraisers,” edited by Tracey Church and Liz Rejman, is the Apra Canada Chapter’s labor of love to support prospect development professionals who further the missions of their organizations in Canada.

Apra's Ongoing Transformation

By: Jill Meister | Mar 22

Welcome to the next step in the evolution of Apra! The new online format for Connections is a great example of the way Apra is evolving to meet the needs of our members in the ever-changing landscape of philanthropy and prospect development.

Insight That Inspires: The Evolution of Connections

By: Susan H. Faraone | Feb 28

Welcome to the new Connections! We are looking forward to hearing from you about how we can continue to fulfill our mission—making Connections the premier information resource for professionals in fundraising research, analytics and relationship management.

Book Review: "Building Your Analytics Shop: A Workbook for Nonprofits"

By: Thomas Turner | Feb 13

In “Building Your Analytics Shop,” Marianne Pelletier sets forth an easy-to-follow process for brainstorming what analytics looks like for your particular organization, how to build consensus with leadership and turn momentum into real deliverables.

Prospect Development in Practice

By: Emma Frey | Feb 13

The themes and issues dominating the evolution of the prospect development profession and community were prevalent throughout all the keynotes, educational sessions and networking events that comprised Prospect Development 2016.

The Value of Persuasion and Influence

By: Christine A Mildner, CFRE | Feb 13

According to Mish, one of the cornerstones for building influence — whether up, down or sideways — is listening. She says Steven Covey’s habit number five in "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” "seek first to understand, then to be understood,” captures this.

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.