Associate Director, Donor Experience and Recognition

USNA Alumni Association & Foundation•Naval Academy, MD

12d•$75,400 - $94,300•Onsite

About The Position

The United States Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation in Annapolis, Maryland is looking to hire a full-time, Associate Director, Donor Experience & Recognition to join the Donor Experience & Strategy Team. This team integrates the core functions that shape how donors experience and invest in the institution-including Donor Experience (Engagement, Stewardship, Recognition, and Acknowledgement), Development Communications, Campaign Operations, Research & Portfolio Management, and Proposal, Case, and Gift Agreement Development. Together, these areas ensure that donors are identified, inspired, informed, and recognized through a cohesive, data-driven approach that connects philanthropy to impact and aligns with institutional priorities and campaign goals. This exempt position has an annual salary range of $75,400 - $94,300 and reports to the Director, Donor Experience & Stewardship. Position Summary The Associate Director, Donor Experience & Recognition designs and manages donor recognition and engagement programs that celebrate giving and foster meaningful connections. The role leads the management of recognition societies, the overall donor experience therein, to how we recognize donors in reports, print materials, digital platforms, as well as physical recognition projects that reflect the institution's gratitude and values. This position pays a competitive salary commensurate with experience and is also eligible for an annual performance-based bonus, when applicable. You would also be eligible for a generous benefits plan which includes medical, dental, vision, an FSA, an HSA, a fully-vested 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching, 22 days of accrued paid time off (PTO) per fiscal year, 13 paid holidays per calendar year, group life insurance, short-term & long-term disability, identity theft protection, and annual opportunities for professional development. Although not guaranteed, certain additional benefits may be offered through the Naval Academy, such as use of certain recreational facilities (including the Brigade Sports Complex gym, marina and indoor/outdoor pools), as well as category II eligibility for employee children to apply to the Naval Academy Primary School. Our mission requires that we hire and retain the best of the best. To do that, we offer competitive pay, generous benefits, opportunities for career development, and a positive work experience This position is based in historic Annapolis at our current offices located overlooking the Severn River on the beautiful grounds of the U.S. Naval Academy. In 2023, the staff of the Alumni Association and Foundation moved into new modern offices in the Fluegel Alumni Center, which is built on the banks of College Creek overlooking the Naval Academy and downtown Annapolis.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required.
5+ years in donor relations, events, or advancement communications.
Experience designing and executing donor recognition programs.
Experience managing data-driven reporting and donor information systems and experience platforms (Ex: Blackbaud CRM, ThankView, CVENT, Ovrture or similar platforms).
Strong project management and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.
Show grit, work with enthusiasm, think with intellect, and act with honesty and humility.
Dedication to growth and professional development with an openness to coaching and mentoring.
Due to the collaborative nature of the role and the consistent, in-person interaction with the Foundation staff is necessary. This position is based in Annapolis and is not eligible for a full-time remote working arrangement.

Responsibilities

Partner with internal and external teams to ensure that all recognition programs (Ex: President's Circle, Superintendent's Society, etc.), communications, virtual and in-person events, and donor courtesies are delivered seamlessly, creating high-quality, personalized experiences that strengthen donor relationships.
Produce and manage milestone correspondence, and welcome packets or similar communications, ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and a donor-centered approach.
Work closely with the Donor Experience & Strategy team to ensure recognition programs and experiences are integrated with stewardship, impact reporting, and engagement initiatives.
Support the planning and execution of donor recognition events, including President's Circle weekend, dedications, and other formal experiences, ensuring donors are appropriately acknowledged and celebrated.
Monitor and assess the effectiveness of recognition programs and communications, collecting donor feedback and implementing improvements to enhance satisfaction and retention.
Maintain recognition standards, policies, and records.
Able and willing to perform or assist with other duties as assigned.

Benefits

medical
dental
vision
an FSA
an HSA
a fully-vested 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching
22 days of accrued paid time off (PTO) per fiscal year
13 paid holidays per calendar year
group life insurance
short-term & long-term disability
identity theft protection
annual opportunities for professional development
use of certain recreational facilities (including the Brigade Sports Complex gym, marina and indoor/outdoor pools)
category II eligibility for employee children to apply to the Naval Academy Primary School