Summer Internship - Patron Program

New York City Ballet is one of the foremost dance companies in the world, with a roster of spectacular dancers and an unparalleled repertory. Founded in 1948 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, New York City Ballet quickly became world-renowned for its athletic and contemporary style. Widely acknowledged for its enduring contributions to dance, New York City Ballet is committed to promoting creative excellence and nurturing a new generation of dancers and choreographers. The School of American Ballet is the official training academy of the New York City Ballet.

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The New York City Ballet Patron Program Department is seeking an enthusiastic and responsible intern who has a strong interest in gaining practical experience in the areas of development, patron relations, and database management.  Under the guidance of a seasoned Development staff member, the individual in this internship role will gain knowledge in all operational facets of the Patron Program function, including stewarding new and current members. 

Reports to: Associate Director, Patron Program

Internship dates: June 2025 – August 2025

Desired time commitment: 12-15 hours per week

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Shadow and assist in handling phone communications with patrons
• Working closely with the Patron Program team, will learn how to efficiently process annual gift renewals, handle voicemail inquiries, and effectively troubleshoot patron issues
• Support Associate, Patron Program with drafting and editing email campaigns and letters for renewals, acknowledgments, and follow-up efforts
• Assist with packaging and mailing materials, including acknowledgments, welcome letters, and premiums
• Work closely with Associate, Patron Program to organize event RSVPs and assist with phone calls to donors to collect ticket-related information
• Support the Patron Program team with special events, including Dance Tracks, Welcome Back, Meet the Artist, and working dress rehearsals on a select basis as needed
• Learn how to update and maintain Patron Program records in the Tessitura Database
• Provide general administrating support to Development department as needed 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Professional demeanor and attention to detail 
• Must be a currently enrolled student in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.) 
• Interest in Development and Arts Administration helpful
• Knowledge of NYCB a plus 

This internship will provide a great opportunity to experience how a Patron Program and Development Department runs in a non-profit performing arts organization. Benefits include access to ballet performances and special events. Office dress is business casual during the business day and formal for special events. Desired time commitment is at least two-three days per week with flexibility to schedule. Students seeking academic credit are encouraged to apply.    

New York City Ballet is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship status, disability, pregnancy, creed, genetic predisposition or carrier status, military status or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, unemployment status, familial status, sexual violence or stalking victim status, caregiver status, arrest or conviction record to extent required by applicable law, credit history or any other characteristic protected by law.

Statement of Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

New York City Ballet, one of the foremost ballet companies in the world, pursues the highest levels of artistic excellence and innovation. Therefore, we seek to attract, retain, and cultivate the most talented dancers, musicians, designers, stage technicians, and arts administrators.

To this end, we are deeply committed to creating and sustaining an organizational culture that values diversity, inclusion, and equity. We are inspired by our founders, George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, who envisioned an authentically American expression of ballet with a company that reflects the rich cultural diversity of this nation. In pursuit of their vision, we are committed to educating, developing, and supporting an organization that embodies diversity in its many forms.