Class Programs Engagement Officer

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

Cornell University welcomes candidates for the position of Class Programs Engagement Officer in our Alumni Affairs and Development division, based in Ithaca, NY. This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the university's advancement efforts. The Engagement Officer is a key member of the Class Programs team, responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with volunteer alumni class officers who are 20 to 30 years post-graduation. This role is important in fostering alumni connections to Cornell through class affinity, supporting class initiatives like events, communications, and nominations. The Engagement Officer also guides three Reunion classes through the planning and execution of their Cornell Reunions, managing logistics and collaborating with on-campus partners and external vendors. The Engagement Officer serves as a liaison to two alumni volunteer organizations, providing strategic guidance and support to volunteer leaders. As part of a collaborative and supportive team, this role offers an exciting opportunity to build meaningful relationships, advance alumni engagement, and deepen lifelong connections between alumni and Cornell.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 3 to 5 years relevant experience or equivalent combination.
Experience in volunteer management, alumni engagement, or related field.
Strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build meaningful and lasting relationships on behalf of the university.
Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to convey ideas clearly.
Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to balance multiple projects simultaneously while prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership and support to 120 class officers 20-30 years post-graduation with all aspects of class engagement, including communications, event planning, officer training, class dues, affinity networking, class-based philanthropy, and nominations.
Build relationships through 1:1 interactions to understand volunteer needs and offer tailored guidance.
Leverage existing AAD programs to engage alumni through a class lens.
Support the execution and coordination of class-specific activities tied to broader programs such as Homecoming, Madison Square Garden hockey, and Giving Day.
Serve as primary contact for 20th, 25th, and 30th Reunion class volunteers, providing guidance and support in planning and executing Reunions.
Facilitate event-related logistics and oversee Reunion projects like Fun in the Sun programming and Cornell Childcare Center partnership.
Serve as the staff liaison for the Cornell Association of Class Officers (CACO) Board Communications Committee and the Alumni Advisory Council of the Cornellians digital publication.
In collaboration with committee leaders, help set strategy, develop meeting agendas, and provide guidance to volunteers to support their efforts in engaging alumni.
Participate in class and Reunion volunteer training and leadership development initiatives including Cornell Volunteer Summit, Reunion Kickoff, Reunion Mid-Winter Training, and webinars.

Benefits

comprehensive health care options
generous retirement contributions
access to wellness programs
employee discounts with local and national retail brands
health and personal leave
three weeks of vacation
13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1.
two additional floating holidays
tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
tuition aid for external education
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program