Development Assistant, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences

Penn State University•Ferguson Township, PA

About The Position

Penn State is currently seeking a Development Assistant in supporting the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country. Reporting to the Associate Director of Endowment Management and working closely with Major Gift Officers, Directors of Development, development staff as well as other partners, this Development Assistant will: Engage in prospect and project management, collects and compiles data, provides administrative support, serves as the liaison between the unit and central DDAR, and assists in identifying and cultivating potential donors; Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications. Work collaboratively with the head of the assigned unit, development staff, committee volunteers, etc. to maximize fund raising efforts and success Prepare, provide, and review various reports for Major Gift Officers and Directors of Development; support donor tracking and participation and ensure database record management Provide assistance in the development of prospect strategies Respond to requests for information as needed Create Gift Proposal by creating thoughtful, well-structured, and persuasive gift proposals tailored to donors needs, occasions, and budgets. This role combines creativity, research, and strong writing skills to present gift ideas that align with brand values and recipient preferences. Support annual fund-raising goals and functions of the unit; assist with annual planning Provide administrative support for the travel of development staff; ensure staff have necessary pre-travel materials and post-travel follow-ups Create and prepare data and reports May develop and distribute development marketing and promotional materials such as newsletters Participate in the management of portfolios of major gift prospects; input updates and maintain donor records May perform other administrative tasks such as updating and maintaining schedules and calendars and overseeing the purchase of equipment and office supplies

Requirements

General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS)
2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
Strong written communication and storytelling skills
Creative thinking with attention to detail
A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team
A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored

Responsibilities

Engage in prospect and project management, collects and compiles data, provides administrative support, serves as the liaison between the unit and central DDAR, and assists in identifying and cultivating potential donors
Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications
Work collaboratively with the head of the assigned unit, development staff, committee volunteers, etc. to maximize fund raising efforts and success
Prepare, provide, and review various reports for Major Gift Officers and Directors of Development; support donor tracking and participation and ensure database record management
Provide assistance in the development of prospect strategies
Respond to requests for information as needed
Create Gift Proposal by creating thoughtful, well-structured, and persuasive gift proposals tailored to donors needs, occasions, and budgets
Support annual fund-raising goals and functions of the unit; assist with annual planning
Provide administrative support for the travel of development staff; ensure staff have necessary pre-travel materials and post-travel follow-ups
Create and prepare data and reports
May develop and distribute development marketing and promotional materials such as newsletters
Participate in the management of portfolios of major gift prospects; input updates and maintain donor records
May perform other administrative tasks such as updating and maintaining schedules and calendars and overseeing the purchase of equipment and office supplies

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

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