Development in schools of nursing. Fund-raising to further long-range strategic plans

Public or private, large or small, research-oriented or teaching- and service-intensive, every nursing school faces the need to establish a pool of capital to enhance financial stability, increase program independence, and fund special initiatives in an unknown financial future. A strong development program helps to fill such needs. This article addresses several principles of the development process so that deans, faculty, and other decision makers can apply them to their own situations. The authors note the seven important points on the development continuum and then describe the three general gift categories. They discuss communication methods employed in development, highlighting the importance of recognizing donors and cultivating relationships. Consideration is given to the philanthropic potential of women. Finally, the role of the professional development officer, should the school have one, is discussed.