The Division is responsible for raising major, endowed, and planned gifts from alumni, parents, and friends of the University. Such gifts range from five to nine figures and will support the University’s funding priorities and the campaign’s funding priorities. Stewardship of these donors and institutions, as well as communicating with them regularly about both the impact philanthropy makes on the University and on the priorities for the institution.
Reporting to the Associate Vice President, Diocesan Relations, the Director of Advancement will identify, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of major gift prospects for the School of Theology & Religious Studies. S/he will serve as a member of the Advancement team in the division of University Advancement. His/her primary focus will be to solicit and close major gifts (defined as gifts of $50,000 and higher) for the benefit of the School of Theology & Religious Studies. The position collaborates closely with the central University Advancement team, which provides resources and strategic counsel, and uniform metrics to help drive results within the schools and across the University. The Director also participates in the collaborative efforts of building alumni engagement and communicating the School’s mission, vision, and achievements to key donors, alumni, and additional external constituencies. He/she participates in setting annual targets and long-term philanthropic strategy for the School of Theology & Religious Studies, and helps to execute the Schools’ philanthropic priorities in order to maximize external support.
Build, grow, and manage a portfolio of approximately 125 major gift prospects based on new and past donors including TRS Alumni. Major gift prospects are defined as having the capacity to make a $50,000 or higher commitment to the School of Theology & Religious Studies. The Director of Advancement will be expected to conduct at least 100 prospect visits annually, soliciting and closing 15-25 major gifts and qualifying the same number of new major prospects each year. While yearly gift revenue goals will vary, the Director must build upon a program that currently generates 6 figure revenue annually. Collaborate with the Associate Vice President of University Advancement and the Dean, TRS to develop an annual work plan, consistent with prescribed practice in the Division of University Advancement. The work plan will include a personal fundraising goal, goals for number of new major gift prospects identified, number of major gift and annual fund solicitations and number of prospect visits sufficient to meet established fundraising targets. Collaborate with, and successfully guide academic partners through the major gift prospect development process; supporting them in building lasting and productive donor relationships.
Build and maintain volunteer leadership alumni or external constituencies key to the School’s fundraising success. Actively manage and recruit for the School’s Board of Visitors. Participate in the school efforts in planning, executing and marketing events and special initiatives aimed at cultivating donors, engaging alumni, and enhancing the visibility and reputation of the school. Supports the Division of University Advancement in achieving its strategic and fundraising goals, through positive and productive interaction and collaboration with all departmental staff, University liaisons, and external constituents.
Bachelor’s degree required and at least 5 years of professional experience with 3 of those in major gift fundraising, including personal solicitations with a documented record of productivity. Knowledge and understanding of the Catholic Church and its mission is preferred. Higher Education experience is preferred. Must be polished, passionate and have exceptional interpersonal skills. Must possess the ability to lead and obtain results from professional colleagues and exceptional ability to communicate verbally and in writing. Must have effective planning skills. Proficiency in Google suite of products. Experience with Raiser’s Edge is desirable but not required. Familiarity with generally accepted office procedures. Skills in planned giving and wealth management are desirable.
Skill in using development-related database systems. Possession of current and valid U.S. driver’s license appropriate to the type of university vehicle and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Driving Record (MVR) as stipulated in the Vehicle Guidelines and Procedures Manual administered through the office of Environmental Health and Safety. Annual clearance of MVR check through the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.