Nicole Wright, Prospect Research Consultant, Ohio State University

How did you get into fundraising and/or prospect development?

My best friend and OPRN member Jenny Sowash and I applied for seasonal jobs at the Zoo while we were students at OSU. Jenny was hired as a seasonal and has made a career there. I interviewed for a Zoo seasonal job but was called back to my OSU student job.  A few years later, a position opened up at the Zoo in the Development Office running the Adopt An Animal program and other fundraising programs.  I was there for 9 years which gave me a foundation for fundraising and non-profits. I went on to positions at Habitat for Humanity, Franklin Park Conservatory, The Ohio State University, Goodwill Columbus, Cristo Rey Columbus. I returned to Ohio State in 2022 as a Prospect Research Consultant.

When/where was your first Apra conference?

Indianapolis in 2023

What skill would you like to master?

Kitchen knife skills. I love watching Chopped, Top Chef and all kinds of cooking shows and wish I could chop vegetables like a chef!

What is your favorite board game?

Scrabble

What is the last TV show you binged watched?

The West Wing.  I binge watch this at least twice a year.