A major component of my masters degree program was to complete a professional-level internship in the summer in-between the two years of coursework. I chose to work at the Sagautuck Center for the Arts in Saugatuck, Michigan, as a Development Assistant. Here is a short slideshow reflecting on my internship.
Internship Learning Objectives and Work Learning Goals:
- Developing my sponsorship and development skills.
- Experience programming of a multiple-day, large-scale event.
- Learn about the programming of a season of multi-arts events.
Internship Organization Description:
The Saugatuck Center for the Arts has been working over the past seven years to transform a community eyesore—a 32,000-square foot, abandoned pie factory—into a community asset.
We serve the West Michigan lakeshore community, many parts of which are economically challenged (Allegan County is below both the state and national averages for median household income and education levels) and its young people do not have the same arts & cultural opportunities as children from wealthier urban and suburban communities.
In response to the realities of our community, the SCA’s mission is two-fold: 1) to provide and expand opportunities for distinctive, high quality arts and cultural experiences children and adults in the lakeshore community; and 2) to energize the economy of Saugatuck/Douglas and the lakeshore region. We accomplish this through year-round educational programming (i.e. classes and workshops), exhibitions, lectures, gallery talks, live performances, film, and special events including our Saugatuck/Douglas Greenmarket.
Internship Position Description:
The Development Assistant will help coordinate, implement, and assess a series of fundraising programs/events. This is an outstanding opportunity for a candidate in non-profit administration to gain hands-on experience working closely with the Executive Director, board members, and volunteers in a variety of development activities.
Intersection: Arts + Personal Media 