2021 Ann Castle Award Recipient: Melissa Bank Stepno

For more than 20 years, Melissa has worked in the fundraising and nonprofit arena. Joining Blackbaud in 2005, Melissa has consulted with hundreds of clients across all sectors and sizes and currently serves as the Director of Analytics & Business Consulting Services. She is also President-Elect for Apra and an instructor for the Rice University Suzanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership.

As a frequent speaker at industry events and contributor to whitepapers and articles, her areas of interest include the effective use of data and analytics to drive fundraising growth, the impact of high net worth philanthropy on major giving programs, and developing best practices for prospect research and prospect management.

Melissa has previously worked for Boston Ballet and Boston University. She has also held board roles with NEDRA, the AFP Northern New England Chapter, and the Brandeis University Alumni Association. Melissa received her BA from Brandeis University and master's degrees in Arts Administration and Higher Education Administration from Boston University.