Are you passionate about making a lasting impact and empowering students to achieve their educational dreams through philanthropy? Do you thrive on building meaningful relationships and connecting individuals with opportunities to support DSU’s mission? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! As the Assistant Director of Development at Dakota State University’s Foundation, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of DSU and our students. In this role, you will have the chance to work closely with donors, alumni, and stakeholders, utilizing your exceptional fundraising and relationship-building skills to drive philanthropic support for DSU’s programs and initiatives. Join our dynamic team and contribute to the growth and success of DSU.
Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Director of Development to develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies and initiatives that align with the DSU’s goals and priorities.
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit gifts from individual donors, alumni, corporations, and foundations, maintaining a portfolio of prospects and actively managing relationships.
• Assist in the planning and execution of fundraising events, including donor recognition events, alumni gatherings, and cultivation activities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with university stakeholders, including faculty, staff, volunteers, and alumni, to foster a culture of philanthropy and engagement.
• Research potential funding sources and stay informed about industry trends and best practices in development and fundraising.
• Prepare compelling fundraising proposals, reports, and donor correspondence to effectively communicate the impact of philanthropic investments.
• Collaborate with university departments and academic units to identify fundraising priorities, develop cases for support, and ensure alignment with donor interests.
• Utilize donor management software and databases to track and manage donor interactions, gifts, and pledges.
• Support the development of fundraising materials, including brochures, newsletters, and online content, to enhance donor engagement and stewardship.
• Stay up to date on the university’s programs, initiatives, and strategic plans to effectively articulate funding needs and opportunities to prospective donors.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree is required.
• Proven experience in fundraising, development, or related fields, preferably in a higher education or nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, alumni, faculty, and staff.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate the mission and goals of DSU to various audiences.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, techniques, and best practices.
• Understanding of ethical considerations and confidentiality related to donor relations.
• Self-motivated and results-oriented, with a strong commitment to achieving fundraising goals.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits:

• Flexible benefits package – health, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, hospital indemnity insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, health reimbursement account.
• South Dakota Retirement System. Employees receive 6% fully matched contributions from SDRS and are vested after three years of service.
• Paid time off – full time 12-month employees earn 15 days per year of annual leave and 14 days of sick leave per year. In addition, employees receive 11 federal paid holidays.
• Reduced tuition for education.
• Professional liability coverage
• Paid family leave

How to Apply: DSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. Please submit a cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts, and a list of at least three references.
Applications will begin to be reviewed immediately and continue until the position is filled.

About Dakota State University:
In addition to the exciting professional opportunities at Dakota State University, employees will have the privilege of enjoying the benefits of residing in Madison, South Dakota. Nestled in the heart of the state, Madison offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, creating an ideal environment for work-life balance.

The city boasts a range of recreational activities, from picturesque parks to outdoor events, fostering a sense of community engagement and well-being. Madison’s scenic landscapes and proximity to nearby lakes provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it be fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors.
Madison’s location within South Dakota provides easy access to larger cities, cultural events, and regional attractions. Madison is only a short 50 minute drive from South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls.

Equal Employment Opportunity:
DSU is committed to equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Applicants with disabilities are invited to identify any necessary accommodations required in the application process. E-Verify, EOE.