Apra DC-MD is passionate about supporting prospect development professionals in our region experiencing difficulty accessing membership. While some of our programming and resources are free, we want everyone to have a chance to benefit from the full member experience and its numerous professional benefits.

In this spirit, we welcome applications for the Stephen Hardy Membership Scholarship. This scholarship provides one year of Standard Membership and all related membership benefits.

Scholarship Eligibility

• Have DC or Maryland affiliation: live in DC or MD or work for an organization whose headquarters or fundraising operation is located in DC or MD)
• Working in the prospect development field or seeking employment in it
• Experience financial roadblocks to membership (e.g., no professional development budget available)
• Former awardees must wait two years to become eligible again
• At least two scholarships will be awarded each chapter year (September 1 through August 31). Additional scholarships may be available based on budget availability; we encourage you to apply.

Please fill out the application form below. Applications are reviewed on a rolling deadline, approximately monthly. After review, Apra DC-MD will contact you directly if you have been awarded the scholarship.

Thank you for your interest in Apra DC-MD and for all you do in the for-impact sector!

About the Scholarship's Namesake

Dr. Stephen G. Hardy, former Director of Advancement Services at Salisbury University, was the first prospect development manager and mentor of Sara Anello, Apra DC-MD co-president. As a dedicated Maryland fundraising professional, Stephen was a staunch proponent of the importance and value of continuing education for prospect development professionals. Stephen died unexpectedly in August 2020, but his legacy lives on.