Register

Apra Talks

As prospect development continues to evolve, professionals are navigating increasing complexity around data, leadership, ethics, technology and strategic decision-making. Navigating these industry shifts requires a willingness to explore differing viewpoints and understand the real tradeoffs behind daily operational choices.

This year at Prospect Development 2026, Apra Talks returns with a structured format designed to tackle these complexities directly: Across the Divide: The Apra Talks Debate.


Driving Mission Forward Through Dialogue

Apra Talks has long served as a versatile platform for connecting with and learning from varying perspectives within the prospect development community. This year's session leans fully into that collaborative spirit by presenting a moderated debate. Across three ever-changing topics—wealth ratings, best practices and relationship management—debaters will take opposing sides on the core questions shaping how we work, what we trust and how we lead.



Panelists will discuss how these topics directly influence high-level strategic outcomes, including:

  • Prospect identification and qualification
  • Portfolio strategy and frontline fundraiser support
  • Ethical decision-making and data collection transparency


Strategic Learning Takeaways

This session is designed to offer practical insights to help non-profit professionals advance their institutional missions. Participants will leave this session with a stronger understanding of current issues in prospect development, along with frameworks to:

  • Assess whether current internal methodologies remain effective, ethical and aligned with overarching fundraising goals.
  • Reflect on how familiar practices operate within unique organizations.
  • Identify where established professional best practices may need to adapt to meet changing industry expectations.


Apra Talks Debate Speakers

PD26_p46.png Teri Brickey | University of Tennessee Foundation

PD26_p49.png Jen Filla | Aspire Research Group, LLC + Prospect Research Institute


PD26_p47.png Nedra Newton-Jones | University of Georgia

PD26_p48.png Kristin Richardson | Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Elizabeth Schmidt-Gullett | University of Cincinnati Foundation

Dan Zarlenga | American Cancer Society

Moderator

Sharise Harrison | California State University - Sacramento