Meet Dave Smittle. He’s speaking at the 2022 Conference: Is It Time to Consider a New Advancement CRM System?

Dave Smittle, Senior Consultant, Strata Information Group

How did you get into fundraising and/or prospect research?

While working for Huntington, the desktop personal computer debuted. I was back on campus for homecoming and struck up a conversation with the university president telling him about my work and saying I was looking for a job in the area because the teaching market was too tight in central Ohio and we were about to be engaged; my future wife had a teaching job nearby. He called on Monday and said we need someone who knows something about “those” (desktop PCs—wow, I just really dated myself there…) So, I got the job and relocated to NW Ohio in 1987.

What piece of advice would you give to yourself at the beginning of your career?

I still give this advice today—last week, even, while participating on an alumni panel discussion at my alma mater. Learn how to network and form meaningful relationships with others. Know who you can call for advice and assistance in various types of professional, as well as, life decisions. The relationships you form will serve you well for the rest of your life. Then, of course, be kind, welcome all and mentor those who ask for it. (I am a proud Anne E. Mayer Award past recipient.)

What's the best career advice you've ever received?

Learn when it’s time to move on.

Do you have any side hustles?

I guess a side hustle is also my hobby, MG sports cars from the 1940’s and 50’s. Granted, it’s an illness—we have five.

What are you reading now?

Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand; a WWII story of survival, resilience and redemption.

What skill would you like to master?

Maybe someday I will learn to weld. However, if my soldering skills are any indication, it will be a challenge.

What would be the first thing you'd do if you won the lottery?

Pay down debt, share with our kids and probably buy more old cars (I hope my wife doesn’t read this…).