Assistant Director of Alumni Communications & Engagement

Aurora University•Aurora, IL

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Alumni Communications & Engagement collaborates on communications and other essential projects for the Office of Philanthropy & Engagement (OPE), working with University Marketing Communications. The role executes strategies to raise the University’s visibility and increase engagement and annual giving among key audiences. It develops, coordinates, and manages philanthropic and engagement communications across digital and print channels, supports annual giving and alumni engagement initiatives, and contributes to a positive donor experience. The position also supports event logistics, including onsite registration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
At least three years of successful experience within higher education or nonprofits.
Experience writing copy, knowledge of basic marketing, and experience with communication platforms such as Constant Contact.
Ability to manage multiple projects or functions and produce quality results in a fast-paced environment.
Project management experience.
Experience working with data to inform decisions.
Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with internal and external constituents.
Ability to work collaboratively and as a team player.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated commitment to fostering a diverse working and learning environment.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education.
Basic knowledge of fundraising principles, best practices, methods, and standards.
Understanding of relational databases and report-writing systems.
Experience with project management tools such as Basecamp.
Experience with Give Campus.
Knowledge of annual giving and alumni engagement best practices.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with University partners on philanthropic and engagement communications through email, direct mail, phone, online giving, social media, and targeted digital outreach.
Serve as the campus expert for Give Campus, the platform used for annual giving, events, and outreach.
Liaise between OPE and University Marketing Communications to align messaging, branding, and promotional strategies for fundraising, alumni engagement, and donor stewardship.
Develop tools, processes, procedures, policies, and materials supporting alumni engagement, annual giving, peer-to-peer fundraising, and campus partners.
Develop OPE communications and research, write, and edit communications, publications, and reports.
Develop and manage digital and print communications projects.
Manage the OPE communications content calendar and serve as a content development resource for OPE.
Assist with implementing a comprehensive annual giving program to acquire, retain, and upgrade annual donors.
Help coordinate alumni engagement and annual giving initiatives, including the AU Day of Generosity, local and regional events, and affinity-based campaigns.
Assist with event logistics, including onsite registration support.
Represent Aurora University positively, interact effectively with diverse constituents, handle information with tact and discretion, and support the University’s mission and activities.