Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.
Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.
Virginia Union University (VUU) is seeking an accomplished and strategic Director of Development to lead fundraising initiatives and strengthen donor engagement. This role will be responsible for designing and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure major gifts, corporate and foundation support, and annual contributions that advance the university's mission. The Director of Development will cultivate relationships with alumni, donors, and institutional partners to expand VUU's philanthropic impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive development strategy to increase philanthropic support.
- Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major donors, securing gifts of $25,000+ for scholarships, endowments, and capital projects.
- Partner with the Vice President of Institutional Advancement to develop targeted campaigns for specific funding initiatives.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, corporations, foundations, and community partners.
- Oversee donor recognition programs, stewardship activities, and special events to enhance donor engagement.
- Develop and implement moves management strategies to upgrade annual donors to major gift donors.
- Identify and pursue grant opportunities to support university programs and initiatives.
- Develop proposals and reports for corporate and foundation funders.
- Maintain strong relationships with corporate partners to facilitate sponsorships and workplace giving programs.
- Assist in planning and executing capital campaigns and special fundraising initiatives.
- Collaborate with the Alumni Relations, Marketing, and Communications teams to develop compelling donor messaging and campaign materials.
- Provide training and support to faculty, staff, and volunteers on fundraising best practices.
- Manage the development budget, ensuring efficient use of resources for fundraising initiatives.
- Prepare regular reports on fundraising progress, donor engagement, and revenue projections.
Education
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred in Business, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
- 7-10 years of progressive experience in development, fundraising, or advancement, preferably in higher education or a nonprofit organization.
- Proven track record of securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and foundation grants.
- Must be able to lift 10 pounds.
Application Process
Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.
For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page
