Development Intern - Summer 2026

Why Cheekwood?

Working at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers you the opportunity to work for one of the most beautiful places in Nashville. Formerly the home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, Cheekwood now serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum, and museum with period rooms and art galleries. At Cheekwood, you'll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of roles tailored to your skills and interests. Whether you're passionate about horticulture, art curation, historical preservation, or one of our many other career opportunities, you would have the chance to thrive and make a meaningful impact here. Working in such a place that cherishes its rich history, vibrant art scene, and serene gardens offers a unique blend of fulfillment and inspiration. You'll find yourself in a supportive environment where every day brings new opportunities for personal and professional growth, amidst the backdrop of picturesque setting.

Internship Description 

Cheekwood Development Internships are designed for undergraduate students or recent graduates seeking to gain experience in fundraising and/or administration at a nonprofit arts and cultural organization. Working primarily with Cheekwood’s Development Team, the intern will be exposed to all areas of fundraising including individual, corporate, and institutional (foundation and government) giving. The Development Intern will assist in executing multiple summer events, support with donor stewardship, draft donor proposals and impact reports, and complete Cheekwood development-focused audit projects. 

Responsibilities

• Audit Cheekwood’s Tribute and Memorial Gifts Program to determine the status of current gifts and identify new gift opportunities.
• Assist with in-person summer events including, but not limited to, event preparation, RSVP tracking, and event set-up & breakdown.
• Support donor stewardship by making monthly thank-you phone calls and/or sending thank-you emails.
• Contribute to the design and editing of Donor Proposals and Impact Reports using Canva.
• Assist with Prospect Research and Data Analytics to help identify potential new Cheekwood supporters.
• Assist with administrative tasks and duties for the Development Department including, but not limited to, mailing efforts for event invitations & donation acknowledgment letters, purchasing supplies, managing design and printing deadlines, and tracking expenses with careful attention to detail.

Hours/Time Commitment 

15 hours/week for 12 weeks (June 1 - August 21, 2026)

Education 

Junior or Senior at the undergraduate level, or recent graduate from an accredited university.

Area of Study

Art History, Business, English, History, Non-Profit Management, Donor Relations, or related field.

Part-time Benefits

• Membership & Discounts: As an employee, you receive a Cheekwood membership, which entitles you to unlimited admission during regular Garden hours and a limited number of free tickets to special events. Members also receive discounts, classes, ticketed events, and purchases at the Gift Shop. Your Cheekwood membership also include reciprocal admission for named members to more than 300 gardens though the American Horticultural Society. 
• Reciprocal Admission: As an employee of Cheekwood you have free general admission access to various local cultural, historical, and art institutions as part of the employee admission program.  

Application Requirements 

Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest with their resume, and a list of 3 references, at least one academic. Start dates may vary based upon department needs and schedule.