Abby Trahan, director of development at the University of Houston Law Center
HOUSTON, Feb. 25, 2025—Abby Trahan, M.P.A., CFRE, director of development at the University of Houston Law Center, has been recognized as one of two Outstanding Young Professionals by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). The award will be presented on April 27 at AFP ICON 2025 in Seattle.
The award honors fundraisers under 31 who demonstrate excellence in donor relations, campaign management, and dedication to the charitable sector.
“Thank you, everyone, for the opportunity to grow here at the University of Houston Law Center,” said Trahan. “It’s been a pleasure to help facilitate generosity for so many deserving students and faculty.”
Despite being in the field for just five years, Trahan has made a significant impact. At the Houston Food Bank, she grew the monthly giving program by 60%, generating $3 million in reliable annual revenue with a 96% donor retention rate. Her initiatives, including enhanced donor stewardship and new a tool for tracking donor touchpoints, strengthened relationships and expanded support for the organization.
At UH, Trahan has helped secure multiple six-figure donations, including a $1.5 million commitment and the Law Center’s first endowed professorship under the current dean. She also led a peer-to-peer campaign that raised $113,000, the highest in four years.
An active AFP member since 2018, Trahan has served in leadership roles and mentored emerging fundraisers. She also volunteers with organizations such as The Pangea Network, Texas State Alumni Association and her church.
“To the next generation of fundraisers, our unique passions and experiences will continue to elevate our field as we work toward a more compassionate and equitable world,” she said.
Trahan has a bachelor's degree in public administration from Texas State University and a master’s degree in public service and administration and a graduate certificate in nonprofit management from Texas A&M University. She has also earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credentials.
Established in 1960, AFP works to advance effective and ethical philanthropy by providing advocacy, research, education, mentoring, collaboration and technology opportunities for more than 26,000 members around the world.
