SLIS alumnus Ken McCune (MLS/MA'10) is enjoying his work as Database Manager and Development Assistant at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. Ken’s position highlights the new opportunities for SLIS graduates in the information field. We asked him questions about his job in an email interview. His responses are below.

Ken was one of the first graduates of the dual Master of Library Science (MLS) and MA Philanthropic Studies. About the dual degree program:

• Designed for the student seeking a management career with libraries and other nonprofit institutions. Content includes gaining expertise in management of special library programs, fund-raising and endowment management, capital project management and leadership in academic, corporate or large public libraries.

From Ken McCune:

Main job duties: Maintain donor database for Indiana State Museum Development Department, and perform donor research.

Favorite job duties: Donor research.

Tips for students:
If you're looking for a job, look in "unconventional" places. Nonprofits and university fundraising units need people that know how to find information, manage it and present it in a meaningful manner. And they love people who can do that! People with an MLS are perfect candidates for this rewarding job.

Trends in the field:
Fundraising has become much more sophisticated in the last decade. Often these organizations have small staffs that do not have time to manage the donor information they have or do good research on possible donors. The smart organizations recognize this and seek out candidates that know how to do this. The database manager is a "behind the scenes" leader who can be a crucial component for the success of the organization.

Photo Credit Indiana State Museum The Corners by paul_everett82

Posted August 01, 2012