Before you say No to attending an ISM summer learning event, read this.
We get it. Your to-do list is already a mile long and you’re more than ready for week (or two, or six) of hard-earned vacation. The idea of taking time away for professional development feels impossible right now.
A full week away? Tight budgets? Convincing your head of school to sign off?
We hear your concerns all the time. We also hear this — “I’m so glad I went.”
Before you talk yourself out of registering for Summer Institute or Advancement Academy, let’s talk about common objections and how to get past them.
Concern 1: “It’s too expensive.”
Reality: It’s an investment — not a sunk cost.
The truth? Attendees regularly use what they learn to improve enrollment, increase giving, strengthen programs, and lead with more confidence. Here's one school's success story.
Concern 2. “I can’t take a week away.”
Reality: You can’t afford not to.
These aren’t sit-and-listen sessions. You’ll work hands-on with experienced mentors to build a real action plan — one you can implement the day you return. That kind of momentum is hard to replicate at your desk.
Concern 3. “I’ve already done PD this year.”
Reality: These events yield ongoing dividends.
Think of Summer Institute and Advancement Academy as accelerators that deepen your skills, help you build a professional network that will stay with you for years to come, and equip you to achieve your strategic goals.
Concern 4. “It’s hard to get approval.”
Reality: We can help with that.
We created ready-to-use support letters you can personalize and share with your supervisor or board. These explain the value, outline the benefits, and help make your case.
📄 Download the Summer Institute Letter of Support
📄 Download the Advancement Academy Letter of Support
Concern 5. “I’m not sure it’s the right fit.”
Reality: We can help with that, too.
Whether you’re new in your role or looking to level up, there’s a workshop designed for where you are — and where you’re headed. Reach out and we’ll help you find the best fit.
Bottom line:
If you want to bring back actionable strategies, fresh perspective, and real results, start here.
