In 2011, the Alumni/ae Council at St. Paul Academy and Summit School in Minnesota was nearly nonexistent. Other than holding monthly meetings and a lackluster fundraising phonathon, the council sponsored no programs or events; it did not follow its bylaws and had no reporting structure or processes for recruiting new members. Most of the 11 council members were suffering from volunteer fatigue, particularly the president. Few members attended meetings, which were unproductive. The council frequently discussed the need to recruit new members but never developed an action plan.

Nsika Dube, Stewardship Coordinator at UWC Atlantic was recently awarded a scholarship to attend the Spring Institute in Educational Fundraising (SIEF). Following her attendance at SIEF in April, we interviewed Nsika to hear more about her career experience, her role as Stewardship Coordinator and key learnings from the Institute.

Founding Editor Virginia Carter Smith set the foundation for Currents—a magazine chronicling trends in advancement that helps professionals work more effectively—that stands today.

Vidya Kagan, Director of Development Services at Menlo School, reflects on how CASE has supported her through many pivots and transitions during her 20+ year career in advancement. In Vidya’s CASE’s 50th Anniversary Share Your Story submission, she also highlights the value of networking and the importance of giving back.

Support the next generation of advancement leaders through CASE's Future Fund.

CASE has had eight presidents in 50 years. Each has added to the organization’s legacy in a unique way.

Among the most rewarding aspects of our work in advancing education is creating opportunities for others. Through effective marketing and communications, ambitious fundraising, engaging alumni relations programs, and persuasive advocacy, we help institutions transform lives for millions around the world.

A look back at Currents magazine provides a historical record of the profession’s evolution. Our cover stories through the years show not only advancement’s growth, progress, and sophistication, but the evergreen topics that continue to define this work.

There's magic in gathering institutional and volunteer leaders for a deliberate, focused, and productive discussion about the current situation and future direction of the institution. Here's a how-to guide for convening an effective board retreat.

"I'm happy to do anything, except ask for money." Work in educational advancement long enough, and you'll probably hear those words from a foundation or governing board member. For some volunteers, asking for financial gifts produces anxiety—and most people are already dealing with pressure in their life. The last thing they need is more stress from a volunteer job. Discomfort with asking can be a major stumbling block for fundraising success. But the ask is only one step in a larger creative process that's intentionally managed to attract donor investment. Reluctant board members can still help our cause, even if they're not making an ask. Here's how to play to their strengths.