Advancement Officer

Drake University•Winnipeg, MB

About The Position

Drake University Law School is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Advancement Officer to spearhead its fundraising efforts. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for leading the Law School's development efforts, cultivating meaningful relationships with alumni, and inspiring them to support the institution through major philanthropic contributions. Reporting directly to the Dean, you will oversee all aspects of fundraising strategy, including major gifts, annual giving and alumni engagement and events. You will oversee a portfolio of approximately 125-150 major gift prospects, driving forward the mission through strategic identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. You will also play a key role in alumni engagement, working closely with leadership groups, student organizations, and coordinating alumni events. By collaborating with the Dean, the Vice President for University Advancement, and the University Development office, you will help achieve ambitious goals and drive positive change. Drake University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where every individual can thrive.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree
At least two years of successful fundraising experience in a nonprofit or higher education setting
A relationship-driven individual with exceptional interpersonal skills
Outstanding written and oral communication abilities.
Strong organizational skills and a collaborative spirit.
Ability to work independently, managing multiple tasks with high energy, motivation, and determination
High degree of personal integrity and solid attendance record
Willingness to travel frequently and work evenings and weekends as needed

Responsibilities

Lead and manage all aspects of the law school's development strategy, including major gifts, annual giving, and alumni engagement.
Cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects capable of making significant contributions exceeding $50,000.
Develop and implement strategies to increase annual fund contributions, engaging alumni, parents, and friends of the law school.
Support alumni engagement activities, including class reunions, the Golden Gavel Society, and special events.
Collaborate with the Dean, the Vice President for University Advancement, and the University Development office to align development efforts with the law school's strategic priorities.
Build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, donors, and community partners to foster a culture of philanthropy and support.
Serve as a senior advisor to the visionary law dean who is eager to partner with and be shaped by you, prioritizing fundraising as part of a bold and transformational agenda.
Lead all fundraising effort for the Law School during a time of tremendous growth and opportunity, contributing to the school's expanding national presence and being instrumental in these foundational efforts.
Work closely with the Dean of the Law School and Director of Development to cultivate, solicit and steward major gift prospects with a capacity to make an outright or deferred gift in excess of $50,000, whose interests are primarily in Drake University’s Law School and its academic programs or funding needs/opportunities.
Develop annual fund prospects capable of making President’s Circle ($1000/year) annual gifts to the Law School through the engagement of existing and new, uncultivated alumni, parents and friends.