Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Position Available In Duval, Florida

Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement
Edward Waters University
in Jacksonville, FL

Apply Now Type:

Full-Time

Posted:

04/16/2025

Application Due:

Open Until Filled

Category:

Administrative Vice Presidents; +2 Alumni Relations; Development and Fundraising Job Title Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Job Number Division Institutional Advancement Category Administration/Executive Reports To Vice President for Advancement & External Relations Status Full-Time Date Job Last Reviewed 4/16/2025 FLSA Exempt (Salaried)

ABOUT US

Edward Waters University is a small private, Christian, Historically Black, urban liberal arts institution that offers quality academic programs. The University strives to prepare students holistically to advance in a global society through the provision of intellectually stimulating programs, and an environment that emphasizes high moral and spiritual values in keeping with the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Edward Waters University seeks to develop excellence in scholarships, research, and service for the betterment of humanity.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Edward Waters University (EWU), Florida’s first independent institution of higher learning and the state’s first Historically Black College or University (HBCU), seeks an innovative, strategic, and mission-driven Assistant Vice President (AVP) for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement. This senior advancement leader will play a pivotal role in building a culture of philanthropy, strengthening alumni connections, and supporting the university’s ambitious growth and transformation. The AVP will provide leadership and direction for all aspects of fundraising and alumni relations, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate and foundation relations, estate giving, and donor stewardship. They will be a passionate advocate for EWU’s mission, deeply committed to enhancing opportunities for students through robust philanthropic support and lifelong alumni engagement.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, advancement, alumni relations, sales, or related areas preferably in higher education or a nonprofit setting.
Proven success in cultivating and soliciting major gifts ($25,000+) and managing donor relationships.
Strong leadership and team-building skills, with a record of effective staff and program management.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge of fundraising CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce) and donor analytics tools.
Passion for HBCU mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Leadership Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies aligned with the university’s strategic priorities.
Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects.
Lead efforts to grow annual giving, planned giving, and donor acquisition programs.
Collaborate with academic and administrative leadership to identify funding priorities and opportunities. Alumni Engagement Build and sustain meaningful relationships with EWU alumni through events, programs, and communications.
Expand alumni participation and engagement in university initiatives.
Serve as the university’s primary liaison to the Edward Waters University Leadership Council. Team & Operational Management Provide visionary leadership and supervision to development and alumni engagement staff.
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