Assistant Director of Development

Dakota State University; Madison (SD); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reduction

Retirement plan

Job summary

Dakota State University is seeking a relationship-driven Assistant Director of Development to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward alumni, parents, and friends capable of gifts of $5,000 or more. The role focuses on building philanthropic partnerships that fuel DSU's vision and secure its future.

Requirements include a Bachelor's degree and 1–3 years in fundraising, preferably in higher education. Strong relationship-building, data analysis, and public speaking skills are essential, with

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Marketing, Education, Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 1-3 years in fundraising, especially major gifts or leadership giving.
• Experience in higher education preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify and qualify potential donors through research and engagement.
• Develop and implement personalized strategies to cultivate relationships.
• Solicit gifts aligned with the university's strategic needs.
• Maintain relations with existing donors through communication and recognition.
• Maintain accurate donor records in Raiser's Edge.

Skills

Fundraising

Major Gifts

Donor Relations

Data Analysis

Public Speaking

Excel

Confidentiality

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Raiser’s Edge

Job description

Dakota State University seeks a passionate relationship builder to serve as its next Assistant Director of Development. This role is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding alumni, parents, and friends of the university capable of making gifts of $5,000 or more, helping to create philanthropic partnerships that fuel the university’s vision and strengthen its future.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree is required in Marketing, Education, Accounting, Finance, or other related field.
• 1-3 years or experience in fundraising, particularly in major gifts or leadership giving.
  • Experience in a higher education setting is preferred.
• Strong ability to build relationships, listen to donor needs, and cultivate donor loyalty.
• Ability to analyze donor data and fundraising trends to develop strategies.
• Comfortable with public speaking and presenting to groups of various sizes. .
• Strong combination of creative, analytical and organizational skills; attention to detail.
• Proficiency with database management systems.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of philanthropic partners
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Word.
• Effective written, oral, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify and qualify potential donors through research, interviews, and other engagement methods.
• Develop and implement personalized strategies to cultivate relationships with prospects.
• Solicit gifts that align with the strategic needs of the University.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with existing donors through consistent communication and recognition efforts.
• Ensure accurate and up-to-date records of all interactions, proposals, and contributions in Raiser’s Edge.
• Work closely with University leadership to understand funding priorities and translate these needs into compelling donor opportunities.
• Partner with colleagues across the University to identify potential prospects and create comprehensive donor engagement plans.
• Plan and attend events to engage with potential and existing donors, representing the University’s mission and goals.

Benefits

• Flexible benefits package – health, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, hospital indemnity insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, health reimbursement account.
• South Dakota Retirement System. Employees receive 6% fully matched contributions from SDRS and are vested after three years of service.
• Paid time off – full time 12-month employees earn 15 days per year of annual leave and 14 days of sick leave per year. In addition, employees receive 11 federal paid holidays.
• Reduced tuition for education.
• Professional liability coverage
• Paid family leave

In addition to the exciting professional opportunities at Dakota State University, employees will have the privilege of enjoying the benefits of Madison, South Dakota. Nestled in the heart of the state, Madison offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, creating an ideal environment for work-life balance.
The city boasts a range of recreational activities, from picturesque parks to outdoor events, fostering a sense of community engagement and well-being. Madison’s scenic landscapes and proximity to nearby lakes provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it be fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors.
Madison’s location within South Dakota provides easy access to larger cities, cultural events, and regional attractions. Madison is only a short 50 minute drive from South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls. Currently: DSU is located in Madison, South Dakota in the southern lakes region of the state. The region boasts a wealth of outdoor sports and a life-style possible only in smaller towns and rural communities. Madison is just a 50-minute drive from Sioux Falls, the largest city in South Dakota.
DSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration and DSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing [e-mail]
E-Verify, EOE.