This year's Summer Institute was held on the beautiful campus of Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, MA. Summer Institute is an intensive residential professional development program led by a faculty of experienced business officers. Because the program is residential, there are opportunities for learning and networking not only during the sessions, but during meals, breaks, and free time as well. The days are structured so that formal presentations are interspersed with informal interactions between the faculty, presenters, and colleagues. We had a small group of participants which allowed attendees to get to know each other and the faculty quickly. Session topics continued over meals as attendees shared problems arising at their school leading to mentoring opportunities or participated in "the Amazing Race" or kickball enhancing the relationship-building.

The week began on Monday with the New Business Officer Institute, which provided a day and a half of instruction by the faculty on the basics of independent school business management. This group was joined mid-day on Tuesday by registrants for Summer Institute. During the next three days, participants chose from beginner or experienced tracks in many topics, depending on their level of expertise in those areas as well as presentations for the whole group.

In addition to leading presentations, the faculty ensured that participants enjoyed their free time. They ran scheduled activities every night, including a special dinner on campus, and a field trip to the Higgins Armory. Some of the most valuable times were spent chatting with colleagues in the evening.