Renee Francis    

Development Services Associate, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation

APRA-MN: Programming Committee, Former Apra-MN Board Member

Q: How long have you been an Apra-MN member and what was your first Apra experience?

A. I joined Apra-MN in 2006. I can't believe it's been that long! My first Apra experience was attending the International Conference and New Researcher's Symposium in Austin, TX. I had no research experience at all, but knew from that moment I was in the exact right place. I had the best experience and met the most fantastic people, many of whom have become good friends.

Q. What do you enjoy most about Apra-MN?

A. The people are the best! I've never met a group of people who are so willing to help and share their ideas and experience. I love our networking events and can't wait for them to be live again, but until then, the Virtual Happy Hours are a great way to connect.

Q. What do you like most about your career?

A. I have the privilege of working for an organization with a life-saving mission which means a lot to me personally, so my career is rewarding on many levels. Research to me is like a puzzle and I love a challenge. There is nothing better than finding that final piece of information that gets a Gift Officer excited to make that call or take a prospect to the next level.

Q. Best piece of advice you've received?

A. Know when to stop. Sometimes there really is nothing more to find