At the AIChE Foundation, building strong, meaningful relationships with members is more than just a priority, it’s the driving force behind advancing innovative initiatives and creating new opportunities within the chemical engineering community. Central to this effort is Paola Reynoso, the Foundation’s Development and Donor Relations Specialist, whose dedication to fostering these connections fuels lasting impact.
We recently caught up with Paola to learn more about her work, the importance of member engagement, and how donor relationships are driving real change for the future of chemical engineering.
Can you tell us about your role at the AIChE Foundation and how you work with members to support the Foundation’s mission?
I focus on building relationships with our members and ensuring their support — whether it’s time, expertise, or a donation — goes toward something meaningful. I spend much of my time working with the Legacy Society, connecting with members who have included AIChE in their future plans. I also support the Grants Committee, where I see firsthand how funding decisions transform great ideas into real programs. In addition, I’m part of the team behind Doing a World of Good (DAWG), a campaign that highlights the impact of member support and encourages involvement in ways that matter most to them.
What do you enjoy most about engaging with members and helping them see the impact of their support?
What I enjoy most is hearing their stories. Every member has a reason for staying connected, whether it’s a mentor who guided them, a career milestone they want to pay forward, or a desire to open doors for future generations. I especially enjoy sharing the impact of our Legacy Society members, many of whom have decades-long relationships with AIChE and continue to inspire others through their generosity and vision.
How does your work help support the long-term growth and sustainability of the Foundation’s mission?
Sustainability comes from relationships—making sure our members feel seen, heard, and valued. I also want those relationships to evolve into something more—ideally, long-term support. My goal is to help members recognize how the opportunities they’ve benefited from at AIChE, such as networking, professional growth, or recognition, can be paid forward so that others can have the same access.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get more involved with the AIChE Foundation or support its mission?
Start by finding the area that resonates most with you. There are so many ways to get involved, and sometimes it begins with a conversation. Having members and award recipients attend conferences and network with like-minded individuals is incredibly valuable. It gives them a chance to see the work firsthand. The Doing a World of Good program makes this possible by supporting conference attendance for students and young professionals, helping to ensure the longevity of the profession.
Learn more about the AIChE Foundation and 10 years of Doing a World of Good.
