Director, Alumni Relations

Responsibilities

• Design and execute a comprehensive, data-driven alumni engagement strategy for the College of Dental Medicine.
• Develop an annual strategic plan with clear metrics to track qualitative and quantitative engagement.
• Serve as the primary operational liaison and advisor to the Association of Dental Alumni.
• Partner with communications teams to design targeted newsletters, digital content, and social media campaigns.
• Identify and cultivate highly engaged alumni prospects for major gift consideration and volunteer leadership roles.
• Direct all operational phases of signature alumni events, including reunions, regional receptions, and graduation events.
• Monitor annual operating budgets and ensure high return on investment for all programs.
• Oversee data integrity within the university’s central advancement database.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in education and experience.
• At least five years of related experience in alumni relations or development.
• Strong tech literacy with experience in enterprise advancement databases (e.g., Athena, Uproar).
• Proficiency with email marketing platforms such as Salesforce/Marketing Cloud.
• Experience using event management software like Eventbrite.
• Exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple high-priority projects.
• Flexibility to travel and work occasional evenings or weekends for major events.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree.
• Prior experience working within an academic medical center or a professional health sciences school.

About the Company

Columbia University is a world-class research university located in New York City. The College of Dental Medicine (CDM) is dedicated to excellence in clinical, research, and educational missions, fostering lifelong relationships with its diverse alumni community.