2027 Program Sessions
Geared to professionals newer to prospect development (generally those who have worked ~3-5 years in the field), these communal-based sessions will allow participants to learn both from esteemed Program Guides and fellow cohort members. The 90-minute virtual sessions will be guided discussions facilitated by experienced Program Guides focusing on a variety of topics relevant to a career in Prospect Development. The virtual sessions will also provide for the opportunity for networking among the members. Members will shape the agendas for Session #3 and Session #5 by completing a pre-program survey. This collaborative approach ensures the discussion directly addresses the specific interests and professional priorities of the cohort.
Note: The 3-5 Learning Network will be limited to 15 participants, who are committed to attending all virtual sessions and being camera-ready for active participation. Decisions will be made and shared with applicants by December.
SESSION SCHEDULE Session #1: Wednesday, January 27, 2027, 12:00-1:00 PM EST (this first session will be 60 minutes) Session #2: Wednesday, February 10, 2027, 12:00-1:30 PM EST Session #3: Wednesday, March 24, 2027, 12:00-1:30 PM EST Session #4: Wednesday, April 21, 2027, 12:00-1:30 PM EST Session #5: Wednesday, May 26, 2027, 12:00-1:30 PM EST Session #6: Wednesday, June 16, 2027, 12:00-1:30 PM EST
Session #1: Meet and Greet
Session #2: Career Paths Panel This panel will focus on career paths in prospect development. We’re bringing together a group of panelists from a variety of institutions and backgrounds to share their career journeys.
Session #3: Hot Topics - To Be Determined by the 2027 Cohort Members The focus of this discussion will be determined by the cohort. Potential topics may include the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping our field, from prospect management to evolving privacy laws. Program Guides will share their experience and participants will have a chance to connect with peers, exchange practical strategies, and share insights on where prospect development is headed next.
Session #4: Post-conference Discussion This session will focus on conference highlights and what conference attendees learned with plenty of time set aside for questions and continued networking for both those who attend the conference and cohort members unable to attend.
Session #5: Hot Topics - To Be Determined by the 2027 Cohort Members The focus of this discussion will be determined by the cohort. Potential topics may include the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping our field, from prospect management to evolving privacy laws. Program Guides will share their experience and participants will have a chance to connect with peers, exchange practical strategies, and share insights on where prospect development is headed next.
Session #6: Leadership and Engagement Panel This session will explore leadership, engagement, and growth—whether that means preparing for career advancement or finding meaningful ways to contribute and lead from wherever you are. We’re bringing together panelists at different stages of their careers—including those in upper management and those who’ve chosen to deepen their expertise within individual contributor roles—to offer a range of perspectives on what leadership and career progression can look like in our field. There will be an optional in-person gathering during the NEDRA Conference April 7-9, 2027 in Cambridge, MA.
LOCATION Virtual; participants will receive Zoom links for the sessions.
COST Free *This program is only available to NEDRA members
Apply here: 3-5 Learning Network Application 2027 Deadline to apply: Thursday, October 29, 2026
2026/2027 3-5 Committee Members
Erin Gianni (committee co-chair, program guide) Ruthie Giles (program guide) Kendra Mikami (3-5 Alumna) Ellie Perendy (3-5 Alumna) Elana Pierkowski Stephanie Snow Abbey Van Dorn |
