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The 2025 CASE-NAIS Independent Schools Conference brought together advancement professionals from across the sector to explore emerging trends, share best practices, and tackle common challenges. Several key themes emerged throughout the conference:
AI and Innovation in Advancement
A significant focus of this year's conference was the integration of AI and technology in advancement work. The conference featured multiple sessions exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming advancement practices:
"Betting on Innovation" examined how schools can make strategic decisions about AI implementation and build effective partnerships with technology providers.
"AI-Powered Philanthropy" explored practical applications from predictive analytics to personalized communication, showcasing real-world success stories in school fundraising.
"How to Use AI to Improve Your Marketing Strategy" provided step-by-step guidance for incorporating AI into school marketing efforts.
The emphasis throughout these sessions was on practical implementation rather than theoretical possibilities. Presenters shared specific examples of how AI tools are being used to:
Analyze donor behavior patterns
Automate routine communication tasks
Generate personalized content at scale
Evolving Business Models and Financial Sustainability
The conference addressed head-on the challenges facing independent schools' traditional business models. Peter Baron's session "What 100 Heads of School Reveal About the Independent School Business Model" provided valuable insights into how schools are adapting to current realities.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
DEI remained a central focus, with sessions like "Building Inclusive Philanthropy and Engagement" and "Strategic Synergy: Partnering Advancement with Black Alumni" offering concrete strategies for creating more inclusive advancement programs.
Looking Ahead
The conference highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing independent schools. While schools grapple with evolving business models and changing demographics, new technologies and approaches are emerging to help advancement offices work more effectively. The focus on AI and innovation, combined with an emphasis on inclusive practices and trust-building, suggests a sector actively working to adapt to changing times while maintaining its core mission and values.
Final Thoughts
This year's conference successfully balanced forward-looking innovation with practical, immediately applicable strategies. The mix of sessions addressing both emerging trends and fundamental advancement practices provided valuable insights for professionals at all career stages.