College Director of Development, Athletics

What’s in it for you?!

• Advance your career at a top regional university!
• Work with purpose in a student-centered environment!
• Enjoy generous benefits, retirement, and tuition waivers!
• Join a diverse, inclusive, and supportive campus culture!
• Thrive with strong leadership and mentorship opportunities!
• Stability, pride, and impact in public higher education!

If that’s you, let’s talk!

Summary:
A Public University seeks a strategic, relationship-driven development professional to lead annual giving and donor engagement efforts for its Athletics department. This position manages the Athletic Association, coordinates fundraising events, and cultivates leadership annual and major gift donors. Ideal for an advancement leader with experience in higher education athletics fundraising, this role drives both donor growth and program visibility, while partnering closely with internal and external stakeholders.

What You’ll Do:

• Oversee and grow the Athletic Association’s annual giving program and Board of Directors
• Plan and execute signature events (e.g., galas, golf tournaments) to support athletics fundraising
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward leadership annual gifts and major gifts from alumni and community donors
• Manage a travel-based portfolio of prospects and collaborate across the university to advance donor engagement
• Align fundraising goals with university priorities and contribute to long-term advancement strategy
• Promote inclusivity and institutional excellence across all donor activities

Experience You’ll Need:

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred
• Minimum 3 years of direct experience managing annual giving in an athletics or higher education setting
• Proven track record securing leadership annual gifts ($1,000+); major gift experience ($25,000+) a plus
• Experience organizing high-visibility fundraising events and working with volunteer boards
• Demonstrated cultural competency and commitment to supporting diversity and access in higher education

Why Join:
Play a visible leadership role in a growing public university recognized nationally for diversity, student impact, and academic excellence. Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits package, tuition waivers, and a campus community focused on belonging, innovation, and student success. This is a high-impact opportunity to shape athletic philanthropy while building lasting donor relationships.

College Director of Development, Athletics