For about 25 students each year "summer vacation" means "education" via an intensive 9 to 5, four-week course in fundraising management at the Heyman Center's Summer Intensive Certificate program.  With sessions ranging from "annual appeals" to "donor research," "capital campaigns," "social media," "technology," "planned giving," "ethics of fundraising," "major gifts" and many other critical aspects of development, the Summer Intensive offers a unique opportunity for beginning fundraisers and those interested in a fundraising career to develop a comprehensive view of professional fundraising.  

What is particularly notable about the Summer Intensive program has been the number of foreign students who have attended over the past 11 years.  Altogether 40 students from 24 countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America have joined their American counterparts to learn the "American model" of fundraising.  This mix of cultures provides an added benefit as students journey through the month together and develop relationships that often last throughout their professional careers.

Each year the students are asked to complete a detailed evaluation of every aspect of the Summer Intensive Certificate Program. "This month was certainly intense, but the content of the program has given me so much knowledge to take back my organization," said one recent student. Sessions taught by a faculty of working professionals are often praised: "The faculty is great - they actually work in their fields and bring real life experiences to the classroom" said another.  Many students laud the program as it contributes to their professional progress: "I'd recommend this program for anyone entering the fundraising field are wanting to grow in their chosen profession."

For the Summer Intensive Program students, "summer vacation" is a major step toward their personal professional goals; at the same time their education at the Heyman Center will enhance the growth of nonprofits worldwide.