Meet the Apra Pennsylvania Board of Directors

Co-Programming Director

Alison O'Connell, Senior Prospect Researcher, Lehigh University


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

I’ve worked in fundraising for 8 years and prospect research for 4 years.


Briefly summarize your background:

Like most of us, I “fell” into fundraising after earning my BA and MA in history, and after working in nearly fundraising function – events, grants, annual giving – for several types and sizes of nonprofits, I have found my niche in prospect research.


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

I will start my term in 2023. I was inspired to join after volunteering with Apra International on their Connections Editorial Advisory Board for two years and wanting to get involved more locally. I knew there were great people on the Apra PA Board and I’m honored to serve with them.


What are you most proud of in your work?

I’m proud when I can see my research was used for a gift or is being used to support the overall fundraising goals of our department but I’m also proud when the Research Team completes a major project on time and at a high quality, because we do it every time! We may not always get the flashy recognition, but part of my job is coordinating our team’s work, and I’m proud that the department can always count on us for excellent, ethical, and on-time research.


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

I work in higher ed, so our library! But even your public library has tons of resources!


What is your prospect development superpower?

I know when to ask for help! I was lucky when I first started to have two amazing co-researchers (shout out to fellow board member Devon Rutz) who helped me out a lot and made me feel comfortable asking questions. Now I ask for help brainstorming or with research from my supervisor and my co-workers all the time.


What is your bucket list vacation destination and why?

New Zealand to pretend I’m in Middle-Earth. #hobbitlife


What is your favorite season and why?

Fall because boots and scarves are my favorite.


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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