Strategic Development & Alumni Engagement Director

Agupdate; Northern, Danbury (KY, CT); Hybrid; USD 98,000 - 133,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Connecticut State University seeks a Director of Development & Alumni Engagement to lead fundraising and alumni programs, manage high-potential donor portfolios, and guide staff toward strategic goals. The role focuses on major gifts, donor stewardship, and diversified revenue through campaigns and partnerships.

Reporting to the Office of Institutional Advancement, you will analyze data, build relationships with alumni and volunteers, collaborate across campus, and drive engagement

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s preferred.
• Six+ years in fundraising, alumni relations, or related nonprofit work.
• Proven track record of closing major gifts ($25,000+) and engaging alumni.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized cultivation, solicitation, and major gift strategies.
• Lead a comprehensive alumni relations program with events and volunteer leadership.
• Collaborate with campus departments to create alumni engagement opportunities.
• Monitor fundraising performance and report progress to leadership.

Skills

Communication

Relationship-building

Event planning

Organizational skills

Project management

Analytics

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Blackbaud Raiser's Edge

Job description

Western Connecticut State University seeks a Director of Development & Alumni Engagement to lead fundraising and alumni programs, manage high-potential donor portfolios, and guide staff toward strategic goals. The role focuses on major gifts, donor stewardship, and diversified revenue through campaigns and partnerships.

Reporting to the Office of Institutional Advancement, you will analyze data, build relationships with alumni and volunteers, collaborate across campus, and drive engagement