Development & Alumni Relations Lead — Major Gifts

Penn State University; University Park (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Penn State University, based at University Park, is seeking an Assistant/Associate Director of Development to lead major gifts for Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics. This frontline fund-raiser will engage alumni and friends to support the program.

The role involves identifying prospects, crafting proposals, planning solicitations, and traveling regionally to meet aggressive fundraising metrics while working with ICA leadership and central development offices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; 1+ year(s) relevant experience.
• Proven track record in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills to engage high‑net‑worth audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; commitment to professional development.

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies.
• Articulate Penn State’s needs through excellent communications, including written proposals.
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts.
• Travel extensively to pursue strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to fundraising metrics.

Skills

Fundraising

Communication skills

Relationship building

Self-motivation

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Job description

Penn State University, based at University Park, is seeking an Assistant/Associate Director of Development to lead major gifts for Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics. This frontline fund-raiser will engage alumni and friends to support the program.

The role involves identifying prospects, crafting proposals, planning solicitations, and traveling regionally to meet aggressive fundraising metrics while working with ICA leadership and central development offices.