A note from the new president of Apra-MN, Don Irwin:
As we begin 2026, I am honored—and truly proud—to serve as the president of Apra Minnesota. We are all indebted to our outgoing board members Adri Viswanatha, Lydia Tonoyan, Alison Hope, Sara Buesing, and Adam Stenstrom. They have done so much over the past few years to build our wonderful culture within this community!
It’s a complex start to the year in many ways. The mood across Minnesota feels heavy with urgency and political tension, and the rapid evolution of AI continues to reshape our work and our world. In the midst of this, I remain inspired by Apra’s vision as a leader in strategic, data‑driven, collaborative practice. This year, we’ll stay grounded in what matters most: practical, people‑centered support for our community through approachable learning, mentoring, and more opportunities for lasting relationship building. I’m eager to hear your ideas about how Apra‑MN can best support you in the months ahead. The words I’m carrying into 2026 are curiosity and connection—I look forward to cultivating both with you.
Don
Announcements
Nominations for the 2026 Tom Brown Award are Open!
The Apra-MN board is currently accepting nominations for the 2026 Tom Brown Award for Excellence in Research & Service. Apra-MN established the Tom Brown Award following Tom's sudden passing in 2023. This award is meant to recognize an Apra-MN member who exemplifies a spirit of excellence and service in a field related to advancement research. Additionally, the award will defer the cost of annual Apra-MN membership and any cost of registration to our annual conference for one year.
Nominees for the Apra-MN Tom Brown Award must demonstrate a commitment to the profession of advancement research through outstanding work, volunteerism, and/or leadership in the field. To be eligible,a nominee must be a current Apra-MN member in good standing and have worked within the field of advancement research or related fields for at least one year.
Apra-MN is the Minnesota chapter of Apra International, an international organization for professionals interested in prospect development. Apra-MN is a non-profit membership organization that promotes and supports professionals in the field of prospect development.
Our Mission
Building on our Minnesota Legacy, Apra-MN's mission is to serve and educate fundraising professionals interested in the field of philanthropic research by:
promoting and advocating on behalf of the field of prospect and advancement research with Minnesota non-profit organizations;
providing superior educational resources and networking opportunities for members;
increasing the philanthropic resources, knowledge and professional development of members to provide increased value to the institutions they serve;
strengthening relationships with other development professionals; and
acting as a central source of professional research information and expertise for Minnesota non-profits.
Our vision
To be the leading education resource and advocate for development researchers and fundraising professionals that inspire philanthropy.
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