The next generation of donors thinks about annual giving not as an obligation but as a chance to fuel something bigger. Learn to speak their language.
Hot Topics Discussion: Small Development Shop Series, Part 4 of 4
Join us for an interactive discussion with ISM’s expert consultants and your fellow small-shop development professionals from across the country, as we tackle the most pressing issues you face today.
Based on your feedback and key questions raised in previous webinars in this series, we’ll address the top challenges in small development shops. Whether it’s donor engagement, annual fund strategies, database management, or maximizing small-shop resources, we’ll provide practical solutions and actionable insights tailored to your needs.
5 Reasons People Say No to Professional Development — and Why You Should Ignore Them
For a host of (valid) reasons, it can be difficult to commit to conferences and other PD. Before you talk yourself out of attending one of ISM's summer learning events, read this.
The ISM Development Model: An Update
ISM has long advocated that boards, school heads, and school professional staff evaluate the effectiveness of their development programs through six definitive lenses:
1. Strategic board
2. School head; professional and volunteer leadership
3. Case for Giving
4. Constituents
5. Plan of action
6. Giving programs
Smart Summer Planning: Small Development Shop Series, Part 3 of 4
Summer is the perfect time for private-independent school development teams to reset, strategize, and lay the foundation for a successful year ahead.
This webinar will guide small-shop advancement professionals through key summer priorities, including onboarding new families and staff, cleaning and optimizing the donor database, strengthening annual fund strategies, and refining communications.
Did you miss previous webinars in this series?
The State of Student Well-Being in 2025: Trend Lines and Next Steps
Even before the pandemic, student well-being was on the decline. When schools shut down, many predicted an even greater crisis — but what actually happened? ISM data from the past two school years reveal a more nuanced picture: While 5th and 6th graders were generally flourishing, older students experienced high levels of distress. Yet, despite hopes that a return to normalcy would restore student well-being, challenges persist.
Strengthen Your Annual Fund With a Volunteer Cabinet That Works
The annual fund is more than just a fundraising campaign — it’s the heartbeat of your development program. It engages the widest circle of your school community, builds a culture of giving and getting involved, and often serves as the first step in identifying those who will take on further leadership roles.
Introducing ISM Stability Markers 6.0
ISM is pleased to introduce ISM Stability Markers® 6.0, a completely revamped set of research-based indexes designed for the heads, governance leaders, and top administrators of private-independent schools.
Fundraising Essentials: Small Development Shop Series, Part 2 of 4
For independent schools with small development teams, managing multiple fundraising initiatives can feel daunting. How do you balance annual giving, major gifts, and planned giving with limited staff and resources?
Case Study: Crescent School at Advancement Academy
Looking to grow as a team, set goals that align with their school's strategic plan, and take advantage of mentorship opportunities, the advancement team at Crescent School sends members to Advancement Academy every year.