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Washington Adventist University · 5 months ago

Executive Director of Development & Alumni Relations

7600 Flower Ave, Takoma Park, MD

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$63K/yr - $72K/yr

7+ years exp

Washington Adventist University (WAU) is a Christ-centered institution of higher education that values excellence and community. They are seeking a visionary Executive Director of Development and Alumni Relations to lead fundraising efforts, secure major gifts, and build relationships to support the university's strategic goals.

Higher Education

Diversity & Inclusion

Responsibilities

Lead and execute a comprehensive advancement strategy aligned with the university’s mission, vision, and strategic fundraising priorities

Secure major gifts and planned gifts from individuals, foundations, corporations, and faith-based organizations to fund scholarships, campus development, and student success initiatives

Cultivate and steward long-term relationships with alumni, board members, community partners, foundations, and new donor prospects

Partner with the President and executive leadership to engage high-net-worth individuals and philanthropic leaders in support of Vision 2030 and other strategic initiatives

Develop targeted campaigns to support priority areas such as the Needs Grant Fund, student internships, retention, and academic innovation

Oversee donor recognition and reporting, ensuring transparency and accountability

Collaborate across departments, including the academy, enrollment, career services, alumni affairs, and student success, to integrate fundraising with institutional goals

Qualification

Fundraising experienceMajor gifts acquisitionStrategic thinkingAlumni engagementTeam managementPassion for educationOrganizational leadershipInterpersonal skills

Required

Proven success in fundraising with a minimum of 7–10 years in development or advancement leadership, preferably in higher education or mission-driven nonprofits

Demonstrated ability to secure major and transformational gifts

Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and inspire generosity across diverse communities

Strong strategic thinking, organizational leadership, and team management skills

Experience engaging with alumni, foundations, and corporate partners

Passion for educational access, equity, student development, and faith-based values

Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred

Preferred

Experience working in a faith-based, mission-centered academic environment

Familiarity with tuition-dependent institutions and the financial drivers of higher education

A personal commitment to the integration of moral leadership, social mobility, educational purpose, and partnering with all institutional units for desired outcomes