As SUNY New Paltz assesses the launch of its second comprehensive campaign, after exceeding expectations with the success of its first-ever campaign that concluded in 2021 with $24.7 million raised for the University, the Office of Development and Alumni Relations invites applications for the position of Development Officer.
Reporting to the Executive Director of Development, the Development Officer serves as an integral part of a highly successful Development team, whose primary mission is to cultivate new, existing, internal, and external partnerships to advance fundraising goals that match University initiatives and needs with donor interest. The Development Officer plays a key role in major gift cultivation and solicitation efforts for the SUNY New Paltz Foundation, the nonprofit entity charged with raising private, philanthropic support for the University.
This position works collaboratively with the Development team—the Vice President of Development & Alumni Relations, the Executive Director of Development, and the Development Officer, Assistant Director, Stewardship, and Assistant Director Annual Giving in particular—and University leadership—Deans and faculty, in particular—to engage prospective supporters with the objective of substantially increasing and sustaining philanthropic engagement and contributions over time. Duties of the role include but are not limited to:
Develop and enhance relationships with alumni, parents, faculty-staff (current and former), and friends of SUNY New Paltz, and engage them for philanthropic support
Identify, prioritize, manage, and grow a healthy portfolio of prospects and donors
Personally solicit major gifts ($10,000 to $500,000+ in particular) to help ensure the ongoing success of the SUNY New Paltz Foundation's philanthropic efforts
Develop and manage cultivation activities as part of a larger departmental strategic plan for prospect identification and cultivation, including travel to meet with donors and prospective donors face-to-face
Maintain knowledge of current tax laws, investments and planned giving opportunities; use knowledge in prospect cultivation and solicitation as appropriate
Work collaboratively with Alumni Relations and staff and leadership in the Division of Student Affairs to engage prospective and current donors in building meaningful and strategic relationships for students (including public lectures and speaking opportunities, mentorships, internships, and similar opportunities)
Assist administrators, faculty, and advisory boards in the recognition and prioritization of institutional and departmental funding needs; keep abreast of institutional and departmental priorities, University programs, personalities, and events
Other duties and projects as assigned
Qualifications:
Required:
Bachelor's degree
Three to five years' progressively responsible experience required in development or a related field, including a demonstrated track record of building donor relationships and closing gifts in the five-and six-figure range
Record of sustaining strong relationships with individual donors, gaining their trust while building deep partnerships with the organization and its representatives
Superior verbal and written communication and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to craft complex written proposals that make a case for support
Ability to take initiative, collaborate with others, and strategically align University and program needs with interests and resources of donors
Capacity to engage people in diverse settings and contexts
Knowledge of planned giving basics and applications
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed. Extensive local and national travel required. Must possess a valid driver's license.
Working knowledge of various software applications including relational fundraising databases (Raiser's Edge preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, and Excel in particular)
Commitment to professionalism, collegiality and a positive and productive approach to work
Ability to effectively manage multiple and competing priorities
Preferred:
Master's degree
Special Instructions to Applicant:
Electronic submissions required. Individuals with disabilities who need assistance with the application process should call (845) 257-3675.
Candidates will be required to electronically submit:
cover letter
resume
contact information for three professional references
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled
Other Important Information about this vacancy:
This position offers full New York State benefits which are among the most comprehensive in the country. The State University of New York at New Paltz is a highly selective, public college that is recognized regionally for the strength of its academic programs. It is located in the beautiful Hudson River Valley with easy access to New York City and other nearby recreational and cultural amenities.
SUNY New Paltz recognizes the unique skills, perspective, talents and passion that each employee contributes to its learning community. To work here is to accept an invitation to participate in the growth and development of all campus members—students, faculty and staff. The College's commitment to inclusive excellence is an important part of our mission of public education and our culture. New Paltz continues to work on building a community that supports freedom, mutual respect, and civility. We seek others who support these values of diversity and inclusiveness and candidates of all diverse backgrounds who wish to participate in our cultural aspirations are welcome and encouraged to apply.
The State University of New York at New Paltz is an AA/EOE/ADA employer.
The State University of New York at New Paltz is a highly selective, public college that is recognized regionally for the strength of its academic programs. It is located in the beautiful Hudson River Valley with easy access to New York City and other nearby recreational and cultural amenities.
New Paltz recognizes the unique skills, perspective, talents and passion that each employee contributes to its learning community. To work here is to accept an invitation to participate in the growth and development of all campus members--students, faculty and staff. The College's commitment to inclusive excellence is an important part of our mission of public education and our culture. New Paltz continues to work on building a community that supports freedom, mutual respect, and civility. We seek others who support these values of diversity and inclusiveness and candidates of all diverse backgrounds who wish to participate in our cultural aspirations are welcome and encouraged to apply. The State University of New York at New Paltz is an AA/EOE/ADA employer.