Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement

Whatcom Hills Waldorf; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 77,000 - 89,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

Flexible hours

In-person, in-office role

Job summary

Whatcom Hills Waldorf School in Bellingham, WA, is seeking a Development Director to lead fundraising, annual giving, major gifts, and alumni engagement. This role partners with the Administrative Director and Pedagogical Director and reports to the Board of Trustees to sustain and grow the school’s philanthropic programs.

You will advance capital campaigns, donor stewardship, communications, and events, shaping a welcoming, mission-driven community aligned with Waldorf values.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive fundraising/development experience (non-profit or educational setting preferred).
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field.
• Deep understanding of Waldorf education or ability to rapidly learn its value and messaging.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially in solicitations and appeals.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills across diverse stakeholders (Board, parents, donors).
• Familiarity with CRM, donor databases, and common fundraising platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead advancement strategy and annual fundraising plans.
• Co-chair the Advancement Committee and coordinate reporting to the Board of Trustees.
• Develop and steward major gifts and donor pipelines; oversee gift cycle.
• Oversee alumni outreach, newsletters, and donor communications.
• Coordinate campaigns and events (Annual Giving, Gala/auction).
• Collaborate with Administrative and Pedagogical Directors as part of school leadership.
• Engage the WHWS community and build a culture of philanthropy.

Skills

Fundraising / Development

Donor cultivation

Major gifts

Capital campaigns

Communications

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

G Suite

CRM systems

Squarespace

Job description

Whatcom Hills Waldorf School in Bellingham, WA, is seeking a Development Director to lead fundraising, annual giving, major gifts, and alumni engagement. This role partners with the Administrative Director and Pedagogical Director and reports to the Board of Trustees to sustain and grow the school’s philanthropic programs.

You will advance capital campaigns, donor stewardship, communications, and events, shaping a welcoming, mission-driven community aligned with Waldorf values.