Dakota State University is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Special Gifts Officer to join our advancement team. This position plays a critical role in identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual prospects and donors with the capacity to make gifts of $50,000 or more. The Special Gifts Officer will focus on aligning donor interests with university priorities to generate significant philanthropic support for scholarships, facility updates, and other key areas.
Requirements:
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree is required in Marketing, Education, Accounting, Finance, or other related field.
- 3-5 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.
- 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.
- Conduct regular in-person and virtual visits with prospects and donors to build meaningful relationships and present compelling funding opportunities.
- 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
How to Apply:
To apply, visit https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. The employment site will allow the attachment of a cover letter, resume, transcripts, and contact information for at least three professional references.
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.
DSU is committed to equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Applicants with disabilities are invited to identify any necessary accommodations required in the application process. E-Verify, EOE.
Applicants with disabilities are invited to identify any necessary accommodations required in the application process. E-Verify, EOE.
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