Assistant Director of Annual Giving

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute multi-channel annual giving campaigns including direct mail, email, texting, social media, and crowdfunding.
• Lead, organize, and evaluate the University’s annual Jay It Forward Giving Day campaign.
• Identify, cultivate, and manage donor segments including alumni, parents, students, faculty, and staff.
• Monitor campaign performance and fundraising data to recommend strategic adjustments.
• Coordinate stewardship and expansion of the President’s Circle for high-level annual donors.
• Conduct personal outreach through email, mail, calls, and virtual engagement to solicit and steward donors.
• Support volunteer-based fundraising initiatives and signature campus events such as Homecoming.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports/dashboards for leadership and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in fundraising, advancement services, or the nonprofit sector.
• Experience with CRM databases such as Raiser’s Edge or Salesforce.
• Experience using email marketing platforms like EMMA or Constant Contact.
• Strong written and verbal communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education fundraising.
• Familiarity with annual giving strategies, metrics, and donor lifecycle management.
• Experience with digital fundraising tools, including Gravyty.

About the Company

Elmhurst University is dedicated to fostering a culture of philanthropy that supports its mission and community. Located in Elmhurst, Illinois, the University strives for continuous improvement and excellence in its institutional advancement efforts.