Ohio Prospect Research Network Established 1987 - Apra Ohio Chapter
Corbin Smith, Prospect Research Consultant, The Ohio State University
What was your first job?
I worked at an ice factory stacking tons of bags of ice onto pallets for eventual delivery to gas stations and grocery stores around the state. The work was cold, the money was great, and the work was exhausting. I loved every minute of it!
How did you get into fundraising and/or prospect research?
If you could live in any state, which state would you pick?
Colorado, for sure. I love hiking, hunting, skiing, spending time outdoors, and I don’t mind the cold and snow. Bring on the mountains!
What did you want to be when you grew up? Are you doing it?
I wanted to be an assistant director in the movie business—went to college for it and everything. I worked in the business for about two years before I decided it wasn’t for me. Turns out, not knowing where your next job is coming from or where it will be is really stressful!
What piece of advice would you give to yourself at the beginning of your career?
I would say, “You’re looking for a career, not a lifestyle. Something that is stable, healthy, keeps you in one place, with the same people, that doesn’t make you miserable.” I had to learn that the hard way, but that’s okay because now I have a job that makes me happy, I work with awesome people, and I come home to my wife and my cat and my own bed every day. I can’t ask for much more than that!
Colin Montieth, Corporate Manager of Prospect Development, Ohio Living
What was your first nonprofit job?
I was hired as a temp to do gift processing, data entry, and issue acknowledgement letters part time by a tiny, rare disease organization. This eventually led to being hired directly as their full-time development coordinator.
When I learned about prospect research, I knew it would be the perfect next upward move for me. This was achieved when I was hired by the Ohio Living Foundation for my current role.
Where’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
The likeliest next destination I’m thinking of is Mexico, primarily due to how much closer it is than other places I dream of visiting. I’ve seen very little of the Americas apart from the USA and Ontario. But in terms of where I most greatly wish to go, China would be at the top of my list.
What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?
Pay off my student loans in full.
If you were so wealthy you didn’t need to work, what would you do with your time?
I’d probably spend most of my time on gardening, woodworking, reading, kayaking and hiking when the weather is pleasant, listening to and collecting music, and expanding my modest art collection. I’d take some language and music classes, and I’d also make time to volunteer. Of course, a certain amount of time and money would also be budgeted for personal philanthropy.
Ryan Clement, Manager of Philanthropic Research, Philanthropy at The Cleveland Museum of Art
My first official job was as a ticket taker at a movie theater. Looking back, I think it was my earliest experience with prospect research. I would make a game out of guessing which movie people were going to see and I couldn't help but notice patterns, like if they had a new partner.
My first role in the nonprofit sector was at Playhouse Square as a Ticket Services Representative—a natural step up from being a ticket taker. I found immense satisfaction in resolving patrons' issues so they could fully enjoy the performance. It was fun watching thousands of people having a good time.
I would tell my younger self (2.5 yrs ago) to never hesitate to reach out to colleagues at OPRN. OPRN and APRA became my lifeline and, over time, my close friends. It’s a vital reminder that whether you're in a one-person shop or part of a large team, you are never alone in this field.
I would dedicate my time and resources to running a comprehensive dog rescue sanctuary. My dream would be to create a farm-like environment with on-site veterinarians, behavioral trainers, and a dedicated staff. Dogs give so much unconditional support to humans; it would be my mission to give them a safe, nurturing place to thrive while they wait for their forever homes.
Would you rather sail or van life around the world?
Van life, without a doubt! The idea of being a digital nomad and having the freedom to explore the U.S. is incredibly appealing. I have a friend who lives that lifestyle, and I'm always inspired by his sense of adventure and discovery.
Megan Swackhammer, Prospect Research Analyst, Florida Gulf Coast University
My first job was working for my dad. He was a lawyer, so I ran paperwork to the nearby courthouses and made A LOT of copies.
Like so many folks in prospect development, by chance! I needed a job after college so I didn't have to move back to my parents' house. I had a student worker position in the advancement office at Pitt and they had an opening for a prospect researcher. It turned out I loved it and it's become my career!
What are you reading now?
I just finished The Unlikely Escape of Uriah Heep. It was a great, interesting read! I needed a book set in New Zealand for a reading challenge and it might be my favorite book of the year!
What movie can you rewatch over and over again?
I can't pick just one! Jurassic Park and The Lord of the Rings trilogy (extended editions only in our house!) - I watch LotR about once a year and Jurassic Park whenever it's on tv.
Does your current car have a name? What is it?
Bertie (short for Roberta) - she's named after the t-rex animatronic in Jurassic Park
Jamie Lydenberg, Prospect Development Researcher II, Cincinnati Children's Hospital
If you could complete one work-related task with a wave of your hand, what task would you choose?
Update all business affiliation data with proper job titles that then magically continuously refreshes.
What would be the first thing you'd do if you won the lottery?
Start a foundation that gives solely to overhead costs – making sure staff are provided professional development opportunities, upgrades to office equipment, and fund the things that make lives of nonprofit professionals easier!
Do you think iced coffee should only be consumed in the summer or all year round?
All year round and anytime of the day. My love for iced coffee knows no season.
What childhood rule was most difficult for you to follow?
Stop being so nosey, which really comes in handy nowadays.
What is your favorite board game?
It is so hard to pick one, so my top three are Ticket To Ride, Seven Wonders, and Dominion.
Amy Griffith, Strategy and Research Analyst, Otterbein University
What could you give a 45-minute presentation on with absolutely no preparation?
I am a self-proclaimed “Disney Geek”. I could give a 45-minute presentation on Walt Disney World travel without thinking. In fact, someone may need to cut me off . My husband and I and our two kids have traveled to Disney World over 15 times. Heading back for Spring Break!
When/Where was your first APRA conference?
I am new to the career of Prospect Research, so I haven’t had the opportunity to attend a conference yet. But, I look forward to hopefully attending this year.
My husband and I love playing board games. So, it is hard to pick just one. But, I would have to say, Catan is our favorite. We have also bought many of the expansions to go with it such as Cities & Knights and Traders & Barbarians. We recently got the Seafarers expansion at Christmas and are enjoying that version.
What is the last TV show you binged watched?
The last TV show we binge watched is Yellowstone, as well as the spinoffs 1883 and 1923.
Are you an early bird or night owl?
I am definitely an early bird. I wake up at 4:30am everyday and go to the gym before work. But, if you are trying to reach me after 9pm, I am most likely sleeping already.
Christine Bitner, Prospect Research Analyst, University of Dayton
What's the best career advice you've ever received?
Build good bridges; don't burn them. Every person you meet could potentially be the key to a new opportunity. You never know how that interaction may fit into your future, both personally and professionally.
Genealogy research. I am absolutely obsessed. I even worked for our local history library for a few years as a young woman—nothing like getting paid for your hobby.
When/where was your first Apra/OPRN conference?
I attended my first in-person conference last year, OPRN, at the Columbus Zoo.
Where's the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
I would love to go to Niagara Falls, both the US and Canada side. I am utterly obsessed with oceans and waterfalls. It's not just the beauty that attracts me; maybe it's the soothing sounds—the rhythm of it. There is also something about the energy and possibly the danger of them and how they are completely out of our control that both scares me and calms me down at the same time.
What is your favorite season?
Summer is definitely my favorite season. The days are longer, and there are so many more things to do socially in the summer, like fairs, festivals, and BBQs. Also, I love gardening. Whether it is indoors or out, flowers or food, it keeps me "grounded", LOL. Gardening is like a tranquil retreat for me. The repetition and solitude are very meditative. Watching things grow and produce and then preserving that food to share with family and friends is a tremendous source of pride for me.
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!
Scrabble
The West Wing. I binge watch this at least twice a year.
Cara Perez, Manager of Advancement Operations, Jump Start, Inc.
I was a lost college graduate who had no idea what to do next. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity by way of a friend to work for a small nonprofit that needed help with database management after acquiring another nonprofit. I have always enjoyed meeting donors during events and a few years into my career, I learned I could get to know donors without ever having to do the “ask”. I truly enjoy prospect research, learning about my community and the impact it can make on an organization.
You are always networking! You never know when someone you previously met or worked with can help you in the future.
Updating occupation information in real time!
What’s a random fact you recently learned?
In 1892, the first rollercoaster at Cedar Point opened and with a top speed of 10mph.
Ted Lasso and I loved the ending.
Tessa Niederbaumer, Manager, Prospect Research, Cleveland Clinic
After graduate school, I was accepted as a development fellow at a foundation supporting a local hospital. This position gave me exposure to all aspects of a fundraising shop and the experience helped me define what I wanted to focus on (I originally thought I wanted to plan events). As with many shops, there was not a dedicated research team, so I wasn’t able to do a formal rotation. I think I fell into the field because I showed an interest in knowing more about the people who donated and because I had some background in analytics so I was able to collect information from many sources, summarize, and present usable information. After my fellowship ended, I moved on to my first prospect research-focused job and I haven’t looked back!
I am a huge Peloton fan and could give a presentation on Peloton/the instructions with no preparation, lol. I bought a bike at the very start of the pandemic after trying it in a showroom in Los Angeles (I caved to peer pressure). I had never cycled before buying the bike. I became hooked, and I have done a class on the platform (bike, walk, run, yoga, medication) each week since.
Are there any books, podcasts, or courses that have changed the way you approach your daily work?
I listen to a podcast produced by American Public Media called Marketplace - https://www.marketplace.org/shows/marketplace/. It comes out daily and focuses on business and economic news, but no degree or finance background is required. It’s been helpful in keeping up to date on the economy and factors that impact philanthropy.
How do you approach traveling on vacation? Do you make an itinerary or just explore?
I am planner so I love a good itinerary. However, my husband is more of a “go with the flow” type person. We compromise, and typically I will plan one thing in each city we visit and then leave the rest unplanned.
Is chili a soup?
I consider chili to be more akin to a stew than a soup. However, my overall view of chili may be a bit controversial since I grew up eating Cincinnati Chili. My dad’s side of the family is from Cincinnati, and I have many memories at Skyline and being in the kitchen helping my mom make homemade chili.
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