Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
: Job Details :

Position Overview:

Gardner-Webb University is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to serve as the next Director of Alumni and Parent Relations. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Advancement, the director will be responsible for creating and executing strategies to foster meaningful, enduring relationships with alumni and parents. This includes engaging them through various events, social media campaigns, and other innovative outreach efforts.

The director will also provide leadership to the Alumni Board and the Parent Board, two groups of dedicated individuals who share a passion for supporting and advancing Gardner-Webb's mission and motto. By strengthening these connections, the director will play a pivotal role in helping the university cultivate partnerships and build a robust network of advocates for Gardner-Webb.

Primary Responsibilities:

* Collaborate closely with the Vice President for Advancement, members of the Advancement Team, and the Office of Student Development to ensure alignment of engagement efforts.

* Establish and strengthen regional alumni chapters to expand Gardner-Webb's presence, foster local alumni networks, and create opportunities for engagement, mentoring, and philanthropic support within key geographic areas. (travel required)

* Establish and cultivate a pipeline for parent fundraising and donations, engaging parents as philanthropic partners through targeted outreach, events, and personalized stewardship efforts.

* Develop and implement strategies to deepen alumni and family engagement with Gardner-Webb University, focusing on building a robust pipeline for financial support and non-monetary contributions.

* Plan and execute a wide range of events and activities, including Homecoming, alumni reunions, networking opportunities, fundraising events, social gatherings, and legacy alumni engagement initiatives, to strengthen connections within the Gardner-Webb community.

* Lead and support the Alumni Board and the Parent Board by organizing meetings, guiding board initiatives, and executing action items to achieve their respective missions and goals.

* Produce and distribute consistent, high-quality communications, such as newsletters and social media content, to keep alumni and parents informed about university news, events, and engagement opportunities.

* Monitor and evaluate engagement efforts using key performance indicators, including event attendance, participation rates, and fundraising outcomes, to measure success.

* Manage the alumni and parent relations budget with fiscal responsibility, optimizing resources through cost-saving measures, event registrations, and sponsorship opportunities.

* Utilize Blackbaud Raiser's Edge NXT or similar platforms for reporting, event management, and communications to streamline operations and enhance data-driven decision-making.

* Develop a strategy for resource stewardship, ensuring effective use of budget dollars while maximizing impact of events and activities.

* Fulfill other duties as assigned by the Vice President for Advancement.

Skills/Qualifications:

* Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to connect and communicate effectively with a diverse range of individuals, including alumni, parents, staff, faculty, and volunteers.

* Strong event planning and project management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple events and initiatives simultaneously within given timelines and budgets.

* Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop and implement strategic plans and adapt to changing circumstances.

* Familiarity with alumni relations software and CRM systems, such as Raiser's Edge NXT.

* Demonstrated creativity and innovation in developing new initiatives and programs to engage alumni and parents.

* The ability to occasionally travel and work evenings and weekends as necessary for events and activities.

Education/Experience:

* Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as communications, marketing, or public relations.

* At least 2 years of experience in alumni relations, fundraising, or related fields, with a track record of success in developing and executing strategic initiatives.

* Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing staff, volunteers, or committees.

* Knowledge of higher education or nonprofit environments, including an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in engaging alumni and parents within these contexts.

About Gardner-Webb University

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina's recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. GWU Athletics competes at the NCAA Division I level in the Big South Conference (with select sports in the Southern Conference and the Coastal Collegiate Sports Association).

Interested applicants should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references through the main website.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should complete the application and include a letter of interest, rsum, and names and contact information for at least three professional references with their submission.

Gardner-Webb University (gardner-webb.edu) is a coeducational, residential, private, historically Baptist, Christian institution, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville-Spartanburg. The University offers 80+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 3,000 students. GWU is a Carnegie-classified Doctoral/Professional University. In 2023, Gardner-Webb was home to students from 93 counties in North Carolina, 44 US states, and 43 foreign countries. GWU is a NCAA Division I institution with 22 athletic teams and 460 student-athletes.