How Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana Built a Seven-Figure Gala

Investing in Your Growth as a Fundraiser with Rice's Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership

In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Sara Ralston, M.Ed., Associate Director of Operations for the Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership at Rice University's Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies. We explore what brings fundraisers to seek out additional training, credentials, or continuing education. Sara shares what participants are typically hoping to gain, what they often walk away with beyond their expectations, and how to think strategically about investing in your own growth. We also discuss the programs offered through Rice's Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership, including who they may be a fit for and what prospective participants can expect. If you've been considering how to grow in your fundraising or nonprofit career, this episode offers helpful perspective on approaching professional development with intention. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-ralston-61a56a50/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-ralston-61a56a50/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/]

Make Networking Work for You (Just in Time for the Ask the Experts Conference)

In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Jamie Spiva, CFRE, Senior Director of Major Gifts and Foundations at Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Houston, and LaGina Rae Harris, owner of The Us Space and a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur. Jamie also serves as Chair of AFP Greater Houston's 2026 Ask the Experts Conference. Together, we explore how to make networking actually work for you. We focus on one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of networking: the follow-up. Jamie and Lagina share creative, actionable ways to build on the energy of a first meeting and turn introductions into meaningful relationships. We also preview this year's Ask the Experts Conference and its new focus on facilitated networking. If you've ever felt unsure about networking, or want to get more out of the connections you're already making, this episode is for you.

Be the Obvious Yes: How to Stand Out from Resume to Interview with Michelle Buchanan

In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Michelle Buchanan, Principal at Dini Spheris. Michelle brings a hiring-side perspective to a conversation many professionals are navigating right now: how to stand out in a crowded job market. We walk through the full job search cycle, from networking and resume submission to interviews and follow-up. Michelle shares what actually gets noticed, common missteps candidates make, and practical ways to position yourself more strategically at every stage of the process. If you are actively job hunting or preparing for your next move, this episode offers clear, actionable insights to help you become the obvious yes. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebuchanan1/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebuchanan1/] https://www.linkedin.com/company/dinispheris/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/dinispheris/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/]

How Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana Built a Seven-Figure Gala

In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Shelly Millwee and Jess Ansel from Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. Shelly serves as President and CEO, and Jess is Vice President of Philanthropy. Together, they share how their chapter built a seven-figure gala from the ground up. We explore the thoughtful planning and foresight behind the event, how they centered mission at every stage, and how they designed meaningful, mission-driven moments that inspired guests. This conversation is a strong reminder that successful galas don't happen by accident. They're designed, planned, and executed with purpose. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellymillwee/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellymillwee/] Https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaygoodman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaygoodman/] https://www.linkedin.com/company/make-a-wish-texas-gulf-coast-and-louisiana/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/make-a-wish-texas-gulf-coast-and-louisiana/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/]

Top 3 Strategies to Transform Your Fundraising in 2026 with Eldon Lewis

In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Eldon Lewis of LewisOrellana Inc for a lively conversation on strategies you can implement today to transform your fundraising heading into 2026. As the new year begins, Eldon shares three practical, high-impact strategies that development professionals can use to reset priorities and strengthen their fundraising efforts. Drawing on his experience as a fundraiser and consultant, this conversation focuses on concrete ideas, realistic first steps, and a lively pep talk to get you fired up for 2026. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eldonlewis/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eldonlewis/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/]