How to apply for Associate Director of Advancement

About Institute for Shipboard Education/Semester at Sea

The Institute for Shipboard Education (ISE) operates Semester at Sea, a unique study abroad program where students live and learn on a ship while traveling to multiple countries. Partnering with Colorado State University, ISE offers a global comparative education that combines classroom learning with experiential field visits. Working here means contributing to a transformative educational experience that broadens students' worldviews.

About the role

As Associate Director of Advancement, you will be responsible for major gift fundraising in the Western U.S. region, building relationships with donors and alumni to support ISE's mission. You will manage a portfolio of prospects, develop solicitation strategies, and work closely with the Director of Philanthropy to meet fundraising goals. This role is impactful because it directly enables scholarships and program enhancements that make Semester at Sea accessible to more students.

A typical day

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with donors and alumni, drafting proposals, and collaborating with the advancement team. You could also travel to meet with prospects in your region, attend events, or conduct stewardship calls. The role balances remote work with in-person engagement to build lasting relationships.

Who Institute for Shipboard Education/Semester at Sea is looking for

• Has 5+ years of frontline fundraising experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit settings, with a proven track record of securing major gifts ($25,000+).
• Possesses strong relationship-building skills and the ability to engage alumni and donors remotely, with a deep appreciation for international education and experiential learning.
• Is highly self-motivated and organized, capable of managing a remote work environment while traveling within the Western U.S. to meet donors.
• Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to craft compelling proposals and stewardship reports.

Tips for this application

• Highlight any experience you have with alumni relations or fundraising for study abroad or international programs, as this is highly relevant to ISE's mission.
• Emphasize your ability to work remotely and manage a regional portfolio, specifically mentioning your residence in or willingness to relocate to Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, or Wyoming.
• Quantify your fundraising successes in your resume and cover letter, such as the number of major gifts secured and total dollars raised.
• Research ISE's recent campaigns or initiatives and mention them in your application to show genuine interest.
• If you have personal experience with Semester at Sea as an alum or participant, be sure to highlight it—it's a strong connection to the organization.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your specific experience in major gift fundraising, including examples of successful solicitations and stewardship.', 'Your connection to or passion for international education and experiential learning, particularly if you have studied abroad or worked in similar programs.', 'Your ability to work independently and manage a remote portfolio across multiple states, with a plan for engaging donors in the Western U.S.', "Your alignment with ISE's mission and values, and how you would articulate that mission to prospective donors."]

Research before applying

• Learn about Semester at Sea's history, mission, and impact, including the number of students served and countries visited.
• Research ISE's partnership with Colorado State University and how it enhances the academic credibility of the program.
• Explore recent news or campaigns from ISE, such as scholarship initiatives or capital projects, to understand current fundraising priorities.
• Investigate the demographics and philanthropic patterns of alumni in the Western U.S. to tailor your approach.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• How would you approach building a donor pipeline in the Western U.S. region, especially for alumni who may be spread across multiple states?
• Describe a time you secured a major gift from a reluctant donor. What strategies did you use?
• How do you tailor your solicitation approach for donors who have a personal connection to a program like Semester at Sea?
• What metrics do you use to measure success in major gift fundraising, and how do you prioritize prospects?
• How would you collaborate with the Director of Philanthropy and other advancement team members to align regional efforts with overall goals?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Avoid generic cover letters that don't mention Semester at Sea or ISE specifically—demonstrate your understanding of the organization.
• Don't overlook the regional requirement: if you don't live in one of the specified states, clarify your willingness to relocate in your application.
• Avoid focusing solely on fundraising mechanics without connecting to the mission; ISE values donors' emotional connection to the program.