It's Blooming Generosity! (April 09, 2026)

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Generosity is in bloom!

Sail into spring while connecting with the APRA DC-MD community. Join us for a scenic afternoon cruise along the Potomac River. Take in the scenic views while connecting with peers from across the field.

Afterwards, join us for casual drinks-on-your-own at Kirwan's on the Wharf. This portion of the evening is open to everyone - whether or not you join the cruise - so feel free to stop by and join the conversation!

Please note that cruise tickets are limited and will be available on a first-come first-served basis. Don't miss the chance to connect, unwind, and get inspired. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

Date: April 9th

Cruise:

Time: 5:45pm-7:05pm, recommended dock arrival at 5:30pm

Dock: Transit Pier, 950 Wharf St SW (Pedestrian access only)

Rideshare Drop-Off: 950 Maine Ave SW

Closest Parking Garage: Wharf Garage 1 (20 Blair Alley SW)

Cost: $30 (APRA DC-MD Member) / $40 (Nonmember)

Happy Hour:

Time: 7:15pm-9:00pm

Location: Kirwan’s on the Wharf (749 Wharf St SW)

Questions? Email us at info@apradcmd.org

MARC Conference 2026 (April 16, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

MARC Conference 2026

The Mid-Atlantic Regional Chapters Conference is back in person this April, and we’re excited to welcome prospect development professionals from across the region to Richmond.

Over two days, MARC 2026 will bring together researchers, analysts, and advancement professionals to share ideas, learn from one another, and dig into what’s working right now in prospect development. Sessions will highlight practical tools, emerging technology, and real-world approaches you can take back to your organization immediately.

Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned professional, MARC offers space to learn, connect, and think more strategically about the role prospect development plays in fundraising success.

Learn more here!

Register here!

See you in Richmond!

Thank you to our generous MARC Conference 2026 Sponsors!

GOLD

SILVER

Expression Through Philanthropy: Powering Fine & Performing Arts Through Data & Relationship Collaboration (April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Expression Through Philanthropy: Powering Fine & Performing Arts Through Data & Relationship Collaboration

You are cordially invited to an afternoon of learning and connection at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore. Apra DC-MD, in partnership with AFP Maryland, AFP Western Maryland, and AFP DC has convened a group of arts fundraisers and prospect development professionals to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in arts philanthropy. Moderated by Apra DC-MD Board Member Nayeli Garcia, the following panel will share their experience working in the region across a variety of disciplines.

After the panel, attendees will enjoy museum tours and continue the conversation with casual networking at Mick O'Shea's.

Whether you are in arts fundraising or another sector of philanthropy, learn alongside colleagues from across the Baltimore-Washington region.

PANELISTS

Liz Courtemanche, Chief Philanthropy Officer at The Walters Art Museum

Liz, a leader in Maryland arts fundraising, came to the museum with 16 years of experience in Baltimore-based philanthropy, including a previous role at the Walters. Prior to her return, she served as the Director of Philanthropy (2023–2025) at The Baltimore Banner, where she stewarded a major giving program for the new nonprofit news organization. Liz also led fundraising at the Baltimore Museum of Art as the Senior Director and Department Head of Advancement (2019–2023) and served as the Associate Director of Development, Sheridan Libraries & University Museums at Johns Hopkins University (2012–2019) and Campaign Gifts Officer and Development Researcher at the Walters Art Museum (2009–2012).

Drew Halford, Senior Manager of Development at The Washington Ballet

Drew brings over five years of nonprofit development and fundraising expertise to the performing arts community in Washington, D.C. His comprehensive experience includes individual and institutional giving, strategic planning, and donor relations across prominent arts organizations. At the Children’s Chorus of Washington and most recently as Associate Director of Development at the Choral Arts Society of Washington, Drew successfully managed major fundraising campaigns, cultivated individual donor relationships, and executed high-impact special events. As a lifelong musician and percussionist, he combines professional development acumen with genuine passion for the performing arts in his work with The Washington Ballet.

Robert McClure, Founder and Principal Writer of McClure Grants and Fundraising

Robert is a seasoned grant professional who works in all phases of the grant lifecycle. He has raised over $25,000,000 to date for his clients, which have included service non-profits, units of government, economic development entities, scientific and technological research firms, and many others. He is presently an independent grant writer and consultant, especially focused on helping nonprofits on the Delmarva Peninsula and other low income communities expand their programs.

Kellyn Smith, Director of Development, Sundance Institute

Kellyn is a creative, resourceful, and dynamic philanthropy leader with 20+ years of experience exceeding fundraising goals and proven success in major gift fundraising, prospect development, portfolio optimization, campaign management, strategic planning, and team leadership. She is a valued peer for her exceptional skills in strategic thinking, communication, problem-solving, change management, and balancing competing priorities in a dynamic environment. She is as committed to building inclusive and equitable fundraising teams and fostering strong relationships with donors and partners as she is passionate about philanthropy being a force for transformational change.

Angela Wheeler, CEO & Principal, A. Wheeler Consulting, LLC

With more than 20 years of experience working in nonprofit development offices and leading A. Wheeler Consulting LLC, Angela empowers creatives and social change leaders to build sustainable fundraising strategies and enhance donor relations. Collaborating with executive teams and Boards, the firm implements tailored initiatives that elevate fundraising performance and create lasting impact for organizations, artists, social entrepreneurs and nonprofit executives. Previously, as Chief of External Affairs at the Baltimore Museum of Art, her team surpassed fundraising goals by 200%, raising $1M for the BMA Ball through strategic revenue generation and operational improvements. Special projects with clients have yielded nearly $70M raised, and numerous contributions to the well-being of residents, children, adults, families, and the environment. Angela's clientele spans the Baltimore-Washington region.

MODERATOR

Nayeli Garcia, Founder & CEO, Chameleon Collaborative, LLC

Nayeli has devoted her career to nonprofit operations and fundraising, drawing from her experiences internationally and from the private, government, and higher education sectors. She has worked in various settings and as an independent consultant to advance education, the arts, social justice, and environmental issues. Nayeli launched Chameleon Collaborative, LLC in early 2024, creating a platform for independent consultants with a diverse skillset to work together on client projects. She combines her creative thinking, nonprofit expertise, and Gallup Strengths Certification to partner with leaders and other independent consultants on short and long term strategic planning and staff development for nonprofits of all sizes.

Date: April 30th

Panel Discussion & Tour:

Museum doors open at 2:00 PM

The Walters Art Museum is located in Baltimore’s historic Mount Vernon Cultural District, about one mile north of the Inner Harbor and downtown business district. Meet us at the main museum entrance, which is located on Centre Street near the corner of Centre and Cathedral Streets. This entrance accommodates visitors with limited mobility.

For ride share services, use: 10 W. Centre St., Baltimore, MD 21201.

Parking:

Visitor parking is available in the lot at 600 Cathedral St. at the corner of Centre and Cathedral Streets. For your convenience, reserve a spot online and pay in advance by going to the museum's website. Museum Members are eligible for reduced rates; bring your membership card to receive your discount when you park. There is also free and metered street parking in the neighborhood immediately surrounding the museum. Other nearby garages are located at 520 N. Charles St. and 601 N. Calvert St.

Networking Happy Hour:

Time: 5:00 PM-7:00 PM

Location: Mick O'Shea's, 328 N Charles St.

Questions? Email us at info@apradcmd.org

Apra DC-MD upcoming events

It's Blooming Generosity! (April 09, 2026)

MARC Conference 2026 (April 16, 2026)

Expression Through Philanthropy: Powering Fine & Performing Arts Through Data & Relationship Collaboration (April 30, 2026)