Advancement Summer Internship Program - UI Stanley Museum of Art Development Intern

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Advancement Summer Internship Program - UI Stanley Museum of Art Development Intern

Company: University of Iowa Center for Advancement

Location: Iowa City, IA, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME Internship

Category: Development / Fundraising Operations

Date Posted: 2026-11-03T17:26:59.158

Experience Level: Entry Level / Internship

Remote Status: Hybrid (On-site with option to work from home 2 days/week)

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a full-time, paid summer internship focused on providing pre-professional experience in nonprofit advancement and fundraising within the context of the UI Stanley Museum of Art.

• The role offers hands-on exposure to critical development functions including prospect research, donor engagement strategies, membership program analysis, and stewardship communications.

• Interns will gain practical experience in supporting annual, special, and major gift fundraising initiatives, with specific exposure to gifts of artwork.

• The position emphasizes developing meaningful donor relationships and expanding philanthropic support for arts organizations, contributing to the museum's mission and priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically designed for students seeking to explore careers in nonprofit settings, particularly within arts organizations, and to gain practical experience in development operations. The hybrid work arrangement indicates a need for strong self-management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist with prospect research and data gathering to identify and qualify potential annual, special, and major gift donors, including those interested in donating artwork.

• Support the development of a long-term fundraising pipeline by analyzing donor interests and philanthropic capacity.

• Conduct research and analysis to assess and refine the museum's membership program, providing recommendations for engagement and growth.

• Contribute to the planning and strategy for a new Collector's Circle membership tier, focusing on donor engagement and research.

• Develop actionable recommendations for three to five arts-enriched donor engagement experiences to enhance donor relationships and support fundraising objectives.

• Research and compile a matrix of prospective institutional supporters, with a specific focus on arts foundations and lending collections.

• Assist in creating and executing stewardship communications, including drafting donor letters, impact statements, ThankView content, and recognition materials.

• Support the Director of Development and Program Coordinator in preparing for and following up on donor meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on data-driven analysis and strategic planning within fundraising. The tasks require meticulous research, clear communication of findings, and the ability to translate research into actionable recommendations for donor engagement and cultivation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program, entering their second year in Fall 2027 through students graduating in 2027.

• While specific majors are not listed, a background or interest in Art History, Museum Studies, Communications, Marketing, Business, or related fields would be beneficial. Experience:

• Previous internship or volunteer experience in a nonprofit setting, arts organization, or a role involving research and communication is advantageous.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a project-oriented environment. Required Skills:

• Prospect Research: Ability to gather and analyze information on potential donors from various sources.

• Data Analysis: Skills in researching, organizing, and interpreting data to inform strategic decisions.

• Written Communication: Proficiency in drafting professional correspondence, reports, and content for donor communications.

• Organizational Skills: Strong ability to manage tasks, maintain records, and support project timelines.

• Interpersonal Skills: Capacity to build rapport and communicate effectively with internal teams and potentially external stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• CRM Proficiency: Familiarity with donor databases or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce) for tracking donor information and activities.

• Benchmarking: Experience in researching industry best practices and competitive landscapes.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Basic understanding of project planning, execution, and reporting.

• Knowledge of Arts Organizations: Familiarity with the operational and philanthropic landscape of museums and arts institutions.

• Presentation Skills: Ability to articulate research findings and strategic recommendations clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an internship, the expectation for research, analysis, and strategic recommendation development suggests a need for candidates who are not only organized but also possess critical thinking skills and a proactive approach to learning and contributing. Familiarity with common fundraising tools or concepts will be a significant advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Research & Analysis Case Study: A sample of research conducted for a project (academic or professional), demonstrating your ability to gather, analyze, and synthesize information. This could include market research, donor profiling, or competitive analysis.

• Communication Samples: Examples of written work such as reports, proposals, persuasive writing, or donor communications that showcase your clarity, tone, and professionalism.

• Project Deliverable Example: If applicable, a sample of a project outcome or recommendation document that demonstrates your ability to translate research into actionable insights.

• Data Organization Sample: A demonstration of how you organize and present data, perhaps through a well-structured spreadsheet, a summary report, or a presentation slide.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not a primary requirement for an intern, demonstrating an understanding of structured approaches to tasks is valuable. Applicants should be prepared to discuss how they would approach researching a new donor segment or developing a plan for a new engagement initiative.

• Emphasis will be placed on the candidate's ability to follow established protocols for research, data entry, and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship, a formal portfolio is less about past professional achievements and more about demonstrating potential and foundational skills. The focus should be on showcasing research capabilities, analytical thinking, and clear communication through academic projects or volunteer work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $18 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid Internship: Full-time, paid position for the duration of the program.

• Professional Development: Hands-on experience in nonprofit advancement and fundraising.

• Networking Opportunities: Exposure to professionals in development, museum operations, and the arts sector.

• Mentorship: Guidance from the Director of Development and other advancement professionals.

• Flexible Work Arrangement: Option to work from home two days per week.

• Paid Time Off: Up to five unpaid vacation days available.

Working Hours: Full-time (approximately 40 hours per week) for the 10-week duration of the internship.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is competitive for a summer internship in the Iowa City area. The hybrid work option provides flexibility, but the requirement to be within driving distance emphasizes the need for on-site collaboration and in-person engagement for key activities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education Advancement / Nonprofit Sector / Arts & Culture

Company Size: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement (UICA) is part of a larger university system, suggesting significant resources and established operational processes. The internship program itself hosts multiple interns across various departments.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, indicating a long-standing institution with a rich history and established infrastructure for advancement and development.

Team Structure:

• The intern will report to the Director of Development and work closely with the Program Coordinator.

• Collaboration will occur with other members of the UI Stanley Museum of Art's development team and potentially museum staff.

• The internship program is managed by the UICA, which oversees advancement efforts for the university. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Approach: Fundraising efforts are supported by prospect research and data analysis to inform strategy.

• Relationship Cultivation: A strong emphasis on building and maintaining relationships with donors.

• Mission Alignment: All activities are geared towards advancing the mission and priorities of the UI Stanley Museum of Art.

• Strategic Planning: Development of long-term strategies for pipeline growth, membership, and donor engagement experiences.

Company Website: https://foriowa.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a university's advancement center provides exposure to a structured, professional environment with established best practices in fundraising and donor relations. The focus on arts organizations within this structure offers a unique blend of institutional support and specialized mission-driven work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position designed for students. It serves as a foundational experience in the field of nonprofit development and advancement operations.

Reporting Structure: The intern reports directly to the Director of Development, providing a clear line of supervision and mentorship. This direct reporting relationship allows for focused guidance and feedback.

Operations Impact: The intern's work directly supports the museum's fundraising goals, which in turn enables the acquisition of new art, the presentation of exhibitions, educational programming, and the overall operational health of the museum. Contributions to prospect research and donor engagement can lead to tangible philanthropic support.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Gain practical skills in prospect research, donor database management, communication strategies, and event support.

• Industry Exposure: Understand the operational dynamics of a major art museum and the broader nonprofit sector.

• Networking: Build professional connections within the University of Iowa and the arts community.

• Career Exploration: Determine if a career in fundraising, development, or nonprofit management is a suitable path.

• Portfolio Building: Develop concrete examples of work and achievements to showcase to future employers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is an excellent stepping stone for students interested in development, philanthropy, or arts administration. The direct mentorship and exposure to key fundraising processes provide a robust learning experience that can significantly inform future career decisions and job applications.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The internship is described as hybrid, allowing for remote work up to two days per week, with the remainder of the week spent on-site in the Iowa City, IA office. This suggests a collaborative office environment combined with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Iowa City, IA. Interns must be within driving distance of this location.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Space: The hybrid model implies a need for collaboration in the office, likely involving shared workspaces or meeting rooms for team discussions and donor engagement activities.

• Technology Access: Interns will be provided with the necessary technology and flexibility to work remotely, indicating access to standard office software and communication tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the Director of Development, Program Coordinator, and potentially other team members involved in museum advancement.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 10 weeks, Monday to Friday, with some flexibility for remote work. Standard business hours are expected, but specific daily schedules may vary based on project needs and meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires self-discipline and effective time management to balance remote and in-office responsibilities. The Iowa City location is a key logistical consideration for applicants.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Review: Initial screening of submitted resumes and any required supplemental materials.

• Interviews: Likely a series of interviews, potentially including one or more with the hiring manager (Director of Development) and possibly other members of the advancement team.

• Case Study/Project Discussion: Candidates may be asked to discuss past projects or hypothetical scenarios related to prospect research, donor engagement, or problem-solving in a fundraising context.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of the candidate's enthusiasm for the arts, willingness to learn, and ability to fit into the team's collaborative environment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on projects demonstrating research, analytical skills, writing ability, and organizational capabilities, even if from academic settings.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to illustrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Researched 50 potential donors," "Analyzed engagement data for a student club event").

• Showcase Communication: Include examples of clear, concise, and professional writing.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Clearly articulate your interest in the UI Stanley Museum of Art and the field of nonprofit development.

• Prepare to Discuss: Be ready to walk through your portfolio items and explain your thought process, challenges, and outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate questions about your understanding of fundraising principles, donor relations, and how you approach research and data analysis.

• Be prepared to discuss your interest in the arts and how you see fundraising supporting an art museum.

• Practice articulating your career aspirations and how this internship aligns with them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Since this is an internship, the interview process will likely focus more on potential, eagerness to learn, and foundational skills rather than extensive prior experience. Demonstrating a genuine interest in the museum and the development field will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Experience or familiarity with donor management software like Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar platforms is highly beneficial for tracking prospect information and donor interactions.

• Research Databases: Proficiency with online research tools and databases (e.g., public records, wealth screening tools, academic databases) for prospect identification.

• Microsoft Office Suite/Google Workspace: Strong command of Word/Docs for writing, Excel/Sheets for data organization and analysis, and PowerPoint/Slides for presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Ability to create, manage, and analyze data in Excel or Google Sheets for prospect lists, membership data, and research summaries.

• Presentation Software: Skills in creating clear and impactful presentations for research findings and recommendations.

CRM & Automation:

• While direct automation experience isn't explicitly required, an understanding of how CRM systems streamline workflows is a plus.

• Familiarity with communication platforms like ThankView for donor stewardship.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool proficiency is not a strict requirement, candidates who can demonstrate experience with or a quick learning ability for CRM systems and data analysis tools will have a distinct advantage. The ability to work with data and translate it into actionable insights is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Commitment to Mission: Dedication to supporting the UI Stanley Museum of Art and its role in the community and university.

• Collaboration: A team-oriented approach to working with colleagues and stakeholders.

• Professionalism: Upholding high standards in all communications and work products.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing research and analysis to inform fundraising strategies.

• Donor-Centricity: Prioritizing the cultivation and stewardship of philanthropic relationships.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Expect to work closely with the Director of Development and Program Coordinator, contributing to shared goals.

• Cross-Functional: Opportunities to interact with museum staff and other university advancement professionals.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that likely encourages learning and improvement through feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely to be professional yet passionate about the arts and the university's mission. Interns are expected to be engaged, curious, and contribute positively to the team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Learning Curve: Adapting to the specific processes, tools, and donor base of a university art museum's development office.

• Balancing Responsibilities: Managing multiple research projects, communication tasks, and strategic recommendations simultaneously.

• Data Interpretation: Translating raw research data into meaningful insights and actionable strategies.

• Remote Work Management: Effectively utilizing hybrid work days to maintain productivity and team connection.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Fundraising Fundamentals: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the development cycle, from prospect identification to stewardship.

• Arts Philanthropy: Deepening knowledge of how philanthropy supports arts organizations and the unique aspects of art donations.

• Professional Networking: Building relationships with experienced professionals in fundraising and arts administration.

• Presentation Skills: Developing the ability to present research findings and strategic ideas effectively to supervisors.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is designed to present challenges that foster significant learning and professional growth, preparing students for future roles in the nonprofit sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach researching a potential major donor for an art museum?" (Focus on methodology, data sources, and what information is most critical).

• "Describe a time you had to analyze information from multiple sources to complete a project. What was your process?" (Highlight organizational and analytical skills).

• "What are your strategies for effective written communication, especially when addressing different audiences?" (Emphasize clarity, tone, and professionalism).

• "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple deadlines?" (Demonstrate time management and organizational skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the University of Iowa Center for Advancement and the UI Stanley Museum of Art specifically?" (Show genuine interest in the institution and its mission).

• "What do you hope to gain from this internship experience?" (Align your goals with the role's offerings).

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a collaborative team environment?" (Emphasize teamwork and communication). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Strongest Examples: Choose 2-3 pieces that best showcase your research, analytical, and communication skills.

• Contextualize Each Piece: For each item, explain the objective, your role, the process you followed, the challenges you faced, and the outcome or key learnings.

• Connect to the Role: Explicitly link your portfolio examples to the responsibilities and requirements of the Development Intern position.

• Be Concise and Clear: Present your work efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your understanding of donor relations and the importance of a strong development program for arts organizations. Your passion for the arts and your ability to articulate your analytical and communication skills will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on UltiPro.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights relevant academic projects, research experience, writing samples, and any volunteer or work experience demonstrating organizational and communication skills. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Select 2-3 strong examples of your work (research papers, analytical reports, persuasive writing samples) that showcase your skills. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the UI Stanley Museum of Art, its current exhibitions, its mission, and the role of the University of Iowa Center for Advancement. Understand the importance of fundraising for cultural institutions.

• Prepare for Interview Questions: Practice answering common interview questions related to your skills, interests, and career aspirations, and be ready to discuss your portfolio.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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