As the year comes to a close, this new series will highlight what our members have been most grateful for in this industry in 2019. We look forward to hearing about rock star co-workers, tools without which we would be lost, and experiences that will stay with us for years.

Apra-IL would like to express its gratefulness for its members who continually push us to provide better programming, introduce new ways to network, and find the best catering and happy hour spots around!

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This week's notes are provided by Trent Nichols, Associate Director of Prospect Research and Management at Wheaton College.

I’m grateful for the Prospect Development industry’s openness and transparency to share best practices and professional development in so many ways. This happens more formally at various national and chapter conferences, through the PRSPCT-L exchange, Apra online newsletter, and more informally through posting LinkedIn articles and white papers, Apra chapter networking, and ongoing communication among researchers via email, phone, and in person. I’ve been in this industry for 20 years and I still see this same esprit de corps present today as I did when I started.

For new colleagues coming into the profession with eagerness and readiness to learn and absorb traditional and new paths in Prospect Development.

And I am grateful for a field that provides new opportunities for learning and growth, while rooted in a philanthropic tradition.