ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE INTERN
At Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST), we are committed to creative experimentation, community dialogue, and collective action rooted in the liberation of Black and queer people. We achieve this through quality programming that centers artists and community.
The Development Associate Intern role offers hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, with exposure to donor stewardship, donor data management, communications, and funding research. This is an opportunity to build practical skills in relationship-based fundraising while contributing to real-time organizational priorities.
The impact of your work directly supports KST’s ability to serve nearly 20,000 patrons annually, create opportunities for over 200 local and national artists, and incubate emerging organizations led by people of color. Through this role, you will contribute to meaningful work in the arts while developing skills that translate across nonprofit and cultural sectors.
CLASSIFICATION: Internship open to CMU student currently enrolled in MAM
REPORTS TO: Director of Advancement, Melike Konur
DIRECT REPORTS: High School Interns when appropriate
COMPENSATION: This position is hired and compensated through Carnegie Mellon University.
SCHEDULE: Please note that this is an in-person position at KST’s Alloy Studios. Typical office hours are 10am-6pm on weekdays. We will work with you to craft a mutually agreeable, regular weekly schedule. Work-Study awards determine the number of hours a student is eligible to work, typically ranging from 12 to 35 hours per week based on their financial aid package.
KEY PROJECTS
- Collaborate on the creation of KST’s Annual Appeal, supporting a dynamic, multi-platform campaign that integrates storytelling, fundraising strategy, and audience engagement. Participate in the development of campaign materials across print, email, social media, and in-person activations, gaining hands-on experience in building a cohesive campaign from concept to execution.
- Support donor stewardship initiatives by contributing to personalized communication strategies, including acknowledgment letters, donor emails, and engagement touchpoints. This role offers experience in relationship-based fundraising and an understanding of how meaningful donor engagement sustains the work of a nonprofit arts organization.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepare and improve monthly donation reports for the Cultivation & Special Events Committee of the KST Board of Directors using PatronManager/Salesforce.
- Prepare and improve donor materials and communications..
- Support the Director of Advancement with preparation for key donor cultivation events.
- Assist with general office tasks including digital and physical file maintenance and directing incoming phone calls.
- As appropriate, collaborate interdepartmentally to support the effective and efficient operations of Kelly Strayhorn Theater.
- Assist with completing the development department handbook.
- Ensure confidentiality of donor information and appropriate maintenance according to file keeping policies.
- Other duties/projects as assigned
DESIRED EXPERIENCE
- Excellent written and oral communications skills
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Mac OS and willingness to learn new job-specific applications such as Salesforce
- Experience in strategic communications, including non-profit arts marketing and/or fundraising campaigns preferred but not required
ESSENTIAL QUALITIES
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging and the willingness to prioritize and foster a commitment to valuing differences of race, ethnicity, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, and socio-economic circumstances
- Strong writing capabilities with particular skill for effective and concise storytelling
- Highly motivated, self-starter with strong organizational skills and ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
What We Do
Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST) is a home for creative experimentation, community dialogue, and collective action rooted in the liberation of Black and queer people, fostering bold and innovative artistry with a global perspective.
