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Aligning Donor Interests With Institutional Priorities
School advancement officers may find themselves in the enviable but tough position when a donor indicates an intention to make a major gift to the school in an area that does not align within the school’s immediate needs. To partner…
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Mission in Motion: Strategic Branding and Messaging That Spark Action
Schools talk about brand, but how does one differentiate in a crowded market? That’s the challenge top of mind for nearly 30 percent of SAIS marketing and communications professionals (Pulse Perspectives, May 2025). Though nearly 20 percent of MarCom pros…
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Reimagining Parent Engagement: Aligning Mission, Culture, and Parent Aspirations
A family’s level of engagement with their child’s school is a critical piece of the independent school student recruitment and retention puzzle. More than one third (33%) of SAIS enrollment management professionals claim attrition rates of 10% or more in…
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Financial Resilience for Independent Schools: What to Watch and How to Measure
Monitoring Financial Sustainability From shifting demographics and evolving parent expectations to increased competition from public schools and alternative options, independent schools must navigate an increasingly complex landscape while maintaining their commitment to educational quality and mission-driven values. Current challenges also…
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The Future of School Fundraising: AI Tools for Advancement Teams
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of independent school fundraising. According to a recent Blackbaud Institute survey of 559 fundraisers, AI adoption is already widespread, with 82% of organizations incorporating AI tools into their operations in some capacity. The most…
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Sharing Your School’s Brand With Authentic Storytelling
From Little Red Riding Hood to Romeo and Juliet, we learn from a young age the power of stories. We cheer on the protagonist, weep at the loss of a beloved pet, and make meaning from the hero’s journey. More…
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Webinar Recording – Development Priorities: What to Do When You Can’t Do It All
This content is an exclusive benefit for SAIS members. If you’re a member, log in and you’ll get immediate access. If you’re not yet a member, you’ll be interested to know that joining not only gives you access to top-notch…
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A Warm Welcome: 4 Strategies for Implementing a New Family Onboarding Program
As one school year ends, another quietly begins—with the arrival of new families preparing to join the community. The transition over the summer months is more than a logistical process; it’s a formative experience that shapes how families come to…
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Webinar Recording – Cultivating Lifelong Connections: Innovative Strategies for Alumni Engagement
This content is an exclusive benefit for SAIS members. If you’re a member, log in and you’ll get immediate access. If you’re not yet a member, you’ll be interested to know that joining not only gives you access to top-notch…
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Webinar Recording – Trustee Education Series | Philanthropic Landscape & Trends
This content is an exclusive benefit for SAIS members. If you’re a member, log in and you’ll get immediate access. If you’re not yet a member, you’ll be interested to know that joining not only gives you access to top-notch…