Meet the Apra Pennsylvania Board of Directors

Communications & Website Director

 Devon Kramer, Prospect Research and Management Analyst, Teachers College, Columbia University


How many years have you worked in fundraising/prospect research? 

5 and a half years now.


Briefly summarize your background:

I'm starting an exciting new journey with Teachers College, Columbia University as a prospect research and management analyst this year. Prior to my new position, I was a prospect research coordinator at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and a development researcher with Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA for three and a half years. That was my first stop on my prospect development journey. I have a background in English and professional writing, and actually began my career with Prevention magazine as a research editor. When I accepted the job at Lehigh in 2018, I found my writing and research skills were directly transferrable to prospect research, and that I had found my new passion. 


How long have you served on the Apra PA board, and what inspired you to join?  

I have been with Apra PA for a year now. I have been attending Apra PA conferences and webinars since I began in this field and have found the prospect development community to be warm, welcoming and always eager to learn. This is my way of giving back. 


What are you most proud of in your work?

I am proud every time I hear that research I completed led to a connection by a gift officer to a prospect. I don't think I would be happy working somewhere that my efforts didn't go to the ultimate purpose of helping others. 


Do you have favorite research tool, site, or trick you can share?

I start every research project with LexisNexis--their Real Property search is how I verify almost all real estate. I also love the S&P Capital IQ database for information on companies and stock. 


What is your prospect development superpower?

Staying curious and attention to detail. 


What is your bucket list vacation destination and why?

Any/all of the countries in the United Kingdom (see below).


What is your favorite book or movie?

My favorite book will always be Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte for its portrayal of such a strong heroine. And that is probably the reason my favorite movie is the 2005 Pride & Prejudice. That and I'm a huge history fan and Anglophile! 


Contact me: djr2195@tc.columbia.edu

Apra Pennsylvania is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and is a state chapter of Apra, an international membership organization that "serves and educates fund-raising professionals interested in advancement research and promotes the profession of advancement research."

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