As WAICU’s Nonprofit Internship Program comes to a close for 2026, we are pleased to celebrate a meaningful season of student learning, professional growth, and service to Wisconsin communities. This year, the program placed sixteen undergraduate students from WAICU-member institutions with sixteen nonprofit organizations across the state, creating opportunities for students to apply their talents while supporting mission-driven work. 

The Nonprofit Internship Program reflects a central strength of Wisconsin’s private colleges and universities, preparing students to lead with knowledge, purpose, and a commitment to the common good. Through their internship placements, students gained practical experience in professional settings while contributing to organizations that serve individuals, families, and communities throughout Wisconsin. 

Over the course of the program, interns supported a wide range of nonprofit functions, including communications, development, outreach, research, program support, and administrative projects. Their work helped organizations expand capacity, advance important initiatives, and bring fresh ideas to ongoing community needs. At the same time, students developed skills that will serve them well beyond the internship experience, including collaboration, problem-solving, communication, adaptability, and leadership. 

For many students, the internship offered a valuable opportunity to explore careers in the nonprofit sector and to see firsthand how mission-centered organizations strengthen communities. By engaging directly with nonprofit professionals and the people they serve, interns deepened their understanding of civic responsibility and the many ways that their education can be used in service of others. 

WAICU is grateful to the sixteen nonprofit organizations that welcomed interns into their work and provided mentorship, guidance, and meaningful projects. Their partnership made it possible for students to experience the nonprofit sector from the inside while making tangible contributions to Wisconsin communities. WAICU also extends its appreciation to the campus partners at member institutions, particularly those who work in career services, who helped connect students with this opportunity and supported them throughout the process. 

As the program wraps up, WAICU celebrates the dedication and accomplishments of this year’s interns. Their curiosity, professionalism, and commitment to service reflect the best of Wisconsin’s private colleges and universities. The success of this year’s Nonprofit Internship Program demonstrates the power of collaboration among higher education, nonprofit organizations, and local communities. 

Through programs like this, WAICU continues to help students connect classroom learning with real-world impact, preparing the next generation of leaders to serve Wisconsin with skill, compassion, and purpose.  

If you have questions about WAICU’s Nonprofit Internship Program please contact Taylor Hooker, WAICU director of outreach and high school partnerships, at taylor.hooker@waicu.org.