Program Description 

About

The prospect development industry has flourished due in part to the amazing community we have created for ourselves. NEDRA looks to continue that tradition with our inaugural 3-5 Learning Network. In this communal-based program, participants will learn from esteemed 3-5 Learning Network Advisors and fellow cohorts in 90-minute virtual sessions. Session content will vary but may consist of short presentations or panel discussions on industry topics, followed by active group discussions and networking.

Benefits

This program is a unique opportunity to develop relationships with junior-level professionals in the field who work at other organizations, while learning from seasoned speakers about resources and/or skills that can help add value to your role. 

Who is this program for?

Geared to individuals who have worked approximately 3-5 years in prospect development and those who have a general understanding of the development field in general.

Cohort Size

This program will bring together a small cohort of prospect development professionals, 10-15 individuals.

How It Works

The sessions will begin with a panel discussion or presentation from a 3-5 Learning Network Advisor(s), which will last  approximately 45 minutes. The remaining 45 minutes will be spent in open networking and discussion among the cohorts, the 3-5 Learning Network Advisor(s), and the Program Guides. 

Time Commitment

Sessions are held roughly once a month during the work week from 3:30pm-5:00pm. There may be additional engagement outside of the session in the form of a Slack channel, WhatsApp group to discuss sessions, or additional resources. 

Cost

The program is free for all accepted applicants. All applicants must be current NEDRA members.

Program Dates

The program will begin in the fall of 2024, and will finish in the spring of 2025.  Exact session dates will be determined soon.

Expectations

A commitment to attending all virtual sessions and being camera-ready. You will not only learn from the 3-5 Learning Network Advisors, but also from each other as you share your own ideas and experiences. 

Program Goals

• Create an opportunity for junior-level professionals to meet and develop a network of relationships with similar colleagues at other institutions.

• Create learning opportunities specifically geared towards junior-level professionals to help them obtain new resources and/or skills. 

• Familiarize junior-level professionals with potential career path opportunities.

• Create networking and discussion opportunities for junior-level professionals with their cohorts and 3-5 Advisors. 

Program Guides 

The program will have a group of seasoned professionals who will guide you throughout the sessions. While the 3-5 Learning Network Advisors will vary each week, the Program Guides will remain the same and will be available for questions and/or conversation as you go through the program. This year’s Program Guides are Steve Grimes, Ruthie Giles, and Elana Pierkowski.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applications Opening Summer 2024

Interested in volunteering as a 3-5 Learning Network Advisor?  

• The Learning Network Advisor leads an approximately 45-minute virtual session on a specific topic to a cohort of up to 15 participants. 

• Session material needs to be tailored to those who have some experience in the field. Materials also must be tailored to meet the expectations set forth in the proposed session description.

• Learning Network Advisors are seasoned professionals who have expertise in a particular industry niche, similar to the proposed session topics.

• Proposed session topics are listed below, if you are interested in being a 3-5 Learning Network Advisor, please email 3to5@nedra.org with the session you would like to cover or an idea for a different session topic.  

Proposed Sessions

Session #1:  Careers Paths in Prospect Development
In this first session, a panel of seasoned professionals will discuss their career paths within different facets of prospect development. Panelists will include colleagues who have varied experiences, such as working in data analytics, prospect research, and consulting.

Session #2:  Prospect Research
In this session, we will share favorite (or less well-known) resources and tools for prospect research. You will also get a chance to discuss current projects and/or pain points for group suggestions and guidance.

Session #3:  Specialized Research
In this session, you will learn about the various nuances and resources for doing specialized research around corporations, foundations, international research and/or due diligence.

Session #4:  Prospect Management
In this session you will learn what prospect management is, what makes it different from prospect research and data analytics, and how to talk with your organization about their prospect management needs. You will also get some guidance on how to begin building a prospect management system.

Session #5:  Data Analytics/AI/Data Governance
In this session, we will delve into the world of data analytics and AI’s increasing role in how we approach, analyze, and maintain our data. This session will explore the importance of data hygiene, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of data for effective use. We will also discuss the crucial role of data governance in maintaining data security, privacy, and compliance.

Session #6:  Directors/Leaders Panel
The final session will feature a small panel of development professionals in leadership positions to reflect about their chosen career paths, professional experiences, and share how they progressed in their careers over time.

Optional Session #7:  Networking
An optional in-person social event (drinks, etc.)

Contact

Email: 3to5@nedra.org