What are the responsibilities and job description for the VP for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement position at University of the Cumberlands?
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The Vice President for Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement is responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive fundraising and alumni engagement strategies to support the university's mission and strategic goals. The role oversees the offices of Development and Alumni Services, building strong relationships with donors, alumni, and other stakeholders. The Vice President will lead major gift fundraising, cultivate donor and alumni relationships, and work closely with university leaders to drive philanthropic support and alumni engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute long-term strategies for fundraising and alumni engagement in alignment with the university’s mission and goals.
- Lead, mentor, and manage the teams within Development and Alumni Services, ensuring professional growth and high performance.
- Set clear performance goals and assess progress, providing feedback and support to achieve results.
Fundraising and Donor Relations
- Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gifts from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other sources.
- Lead and manage annual giving programs, planned giving, and capital campaigns.
- Build and strengthen relationships with key donors, alumni, and stakeholders.
Alumni Engagement
- Develop and lead innovative programs that engage both traditional on-campus alumni and those who earn degrees online, ensuring outreach and connection.
- Implement strategies to increase participation across diverse alumni groups, offering opportunities that resonate with both in-person and online graduates through targeted events and digital engagement.
- Foster a strong sense of belonging among all alumni, regardless of their mode of learning, by creating meaningful opportunities for continued involvement and support of the university’s mission.
Board and Executive Collaboration
- Work closely with the President, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership to identify fundraising and alumni engagement priorities.
- Provide regular updates on fundraising and alumni engagement activities to the President and Board.
- Engage board members in fundraising efforts and leverage their networks to expand donor and alumni outreach.
Communications and Outreach
- Collaborate with the Office of Communications to develop effective communication strategies that promote fundraising and alumni engagement efforts.
- Represent the university at public events, conferences, and meetings to enhance visibility and foster relationships with donors and alumni.
- Ensure all development and alumni communications align with the university’s branding and messaging.
Qualifications
- Commitment to the mission and values of the University of the Cumberlands.
- Demonstrated leadership experience in high-performing teams.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in Development, Alumni Services, or a related field.
- Proven track record in major gifts fundraising, the development of strategic partnerships, and donor engagement.
- Strong understanding of higher education fundraising and alumni engagement best practices.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to innovate and implement creative engagement strategies.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
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