Director of Alumni and External Relations, Fox Graduate School

Penn State University • University Park, IL

1d • $68,200 - $102,300 • Onsite

About The Position

Penn State is currently seeking a Director of Alumni and External Relations to support the Fox Graduate School. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, this role plays an integral part in Penn State’s future and contributes to a successful fundraising and alumni relations operation. The Director will report to the Director of Development, University Programs and work closely with the Fox Graduate School, University Programs, and other partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Demonstrated success developing and executing engagement strategies, including events, communications campaigns, and volunteer programs
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
• The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
• Strong analytical skills with experience collecting, interpreting, and applying feedback and engagement data to improve program
• Experience planning and managing events, including logistics, budgeting, and vendor coordination
• 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

• Develop and execute alumni engagement strategies, including events, communications, and outreach initiatives to foster a sense of community.
• Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications.
• Organize and coordinate alumni events, including reunions, networking sessions, and professional development workshops.
• Create and manage content for newsletters, social media, and other communication platforms to keep alumni informed and engaged; may include writing for print and on-line publications.
• Assist in the identification, solicitation, and cultivation of students, alumni, volunteers, prospects, and donors.
• Recruit alumni for participation in programs, alumni boards, and alumni committees.
• Maintain and update alumni records in the database, ensuring accurate information for outreach and engagement efforts.
• Participate in the strategic and long-range planning for new initiatives and programs designed to enhance alumni relations activities.
• Work closely with internal teams to align alumni relations efforts with broader organizational goals.
• Collect and analyze feedback from alumni to assess engagement strategies and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Facilitate mentorship and networking opportunities between alumni and current students or recent graduates.
• Provide professional guidance and leadership to volunteers, boards, committees, and other staff in order to develop and execute strategies and programs.
• May plan and coordinate the nomination and selection process for various alumni association and/or scholarship awards.
• May hire, supervise, train, and direct the work of assigned staff.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director