Continuing our celebration of Research Pride Month, we asked, Nicole Konieczny, Prospect Research Analyst at the University of Notre Dame, to share her insights as a relatively new professional in the field.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and what keeps you motivated in the work you do today?

A: I was ultimately inspired by the University of Notre Dame's Catholic character; meaning, to be a powerful force for good in the world. I stay motivated to do my job as a prospect research analyst knowing that my work provides valuable insight for frontline fundraisers regarding their potential prospects/benefactors.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about your role, and how has your perspective on the industry evolved over time?

A: I am still relatively new to the industry, however, I find it most rewarding to see gifts come in from prospects I provided research on.

Q: What trends or innovations do you see shaping the future of our field, and how do you think we should prepare for them?

A: I see AI shaping the future of our field at this very moment. AI can be very helpful in auto-generating personalized responses via emails and questions which helps save us time. I think we should also proceed with caution while using AI and be sure to double-check the work AI provides.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to someone just entering this profession, what would it be?

A: The heart of prospect management is people! Focus on relationship building, the rest will follow.