AT18. Steward of our Profession with Abby Hopkins of Penn State

Today, I talk with Abby Hopkins, Associate Director of Development, College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State and most recent chair of the CASE District V conference.
Today’s trend lines include:

• growing in your career at 1 institution
• Getting involved with your professional organization 
• The power of professional networking

Bio
Since 1999, Abby Hopkins has played in integral role in the success of Penn State’s fundraising efforts, first as a development assistant and stewardship professional in the College of Agricultural Sciences, and then working in stewardship University-wide to provide guidance and leadership on stewardship policy, procedures and best practices. In 2018, Abby decided on a career shift and returned to the College of Agricultural Sciences to apply her stewardship knowledge to major gift fundraising.
Helping people reach their full potential, making meaningful connections with others, and continuous learning has been a thread throughout her career, and in 2015 Abby joined the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District V conference committee to contribute to her profession. This service culminated in her role as conference chair for the 2019 conference, which was held in Chicago this past December.
Abby holds a bachelor’s degree from Penn State in Human Development and Family Studies and is a graduate of the University Scholar’s program. A lifelong resident of State College, Abby is one of nine Penn Staters in her family and a lifetime member of the Penn State Alumni Association.