Reports To: President of the University

Classification: Exempt 

Posted: February 22, 2024

The University of Sioux Falls invites applications for Associate Vice President (AVP) or Vice President for Institutional Advancement. In addition to salary compensation, the position includes benefit options offered for full-time employees. The position start date is based on availability, with the desired start date of June 1, 2024. Position and compensation based on experience and education.

GENERAL SUMMARY

The AVP or Vice President for Institutional Advancement at the University of Sioux Falls is a key leadership position responsible for advancing the university's mission, vision, and strategic goals through effective fundraising, alumni engagement, external relations, and other philanthropic activities deemed appropriate through the President’s Office. Reporting directly to the President, the AVP or Vice President for Institutional Advancement plays a critical role in building and maintaining relationships with donors, alumni, and other stakeholders to secure financial support and enhance the university's overall reputation in line with advancing the Christian mission and vision of the institution. 

MAJOR FUNCTIONS

Fundraising Leadership:

• Develop and implement effective and demonstrable fundraising strategies that meet sustainable annual and longer-term financial goals established by executive leadership of the University.
• Work cooperatively with relevant stakeholders to increase donor base volume and engagement.
• Cultivate sustainable relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporations to secure philanthropic support for the University endowment, planned and deferred giving, grants, and estate gifts in order to achieve established fundraising goals.
• Provide leadership in planning and executing comprehensive and limited capital campaigns, annual giving programs, and other fundraising initiatives.

Alumni and Friend Engagement:

• Oversee programs and initiatives aimed at increasing alumni and friend engagement, as well as fostering strong relationships within the community and region that support the University’s existence.
• Enhance and implement strategies to increase alumni participation in university activities and giving.
• Utilize existing and emerging technology and communication channels to keep alumni connected and informed about the University. 

External Relations:

• Represent the university in the Sioux Falls community and Midwest area, establishing and maintaining positive relationships with external partners.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including church and community leaders and business partners, to enhance the university's visibility and impact.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the university, as needed, articulating its Christian mission, values, and accomplishments to various audiences, friends, and alums.

Strategic Planning and Reporting:

• Contribute to developing and implementing the USF institutional strategic plan and accreditation related to advancement activities.
• Provide regular reports to the President regarding fundraising progress, alumni engagement, and other relevant metrics.
• Collaborate with university leadership and strategic planning to align advancement efforts with overall institutional priorities.

Leadership and Team Management:

• Serve on the Management Team, working cooperatively with University vice presidents and administrators to develop and implement institutional advancement strategies in line with the mission and vision of the institution. 
• Lead, inspire, and manage a high-performing team of professionals in fundraising, alumni relations, and external affairs.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence within the advancement team.
• Provide professional development opportunities and mentorship to team members.
• Manage staff with responsibilities including development and coordination of prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, special events, development research, donor relations, corporate and foundation relations, annual fund, alumni relations, planned giving, and major gift development and coordination.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY & THE SIOUX FALLS COMMUNITY

Founded in 1883, the University of Sioux Falls is a Christian, Liberal Arts University affiliated with the American Baptist Churches, U.S.A., with a total headcount of over 1,600 undergraduate and graduate students. USF is inclusive of all denominations, with many represented on campus. Our mission is to foster academic excellence and the development of mature Christian persons for service to God and humankind in the world. Our motto is Culture for Service. We offer over 90 undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, which are on-ground, hybrid, and online. The University is a Council of Independent Colleges member and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. USF is also accredited by the following: Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). USF is a member of the NCAA Division II and competes in the Northern Sun Athletic Conference (NSIC).

The University is located in the heart of South Dakota's largest city with a metropolitan area population of approximately 280,000 residents. Existing at the intersection of Interstate 29 north to south and Interstate 90 east to west, Sioux Falls is a highly rated city for its quality of life, recreational and athletic facilities, and strong business climate in healthcare, education, banking, business, and non-profit organizations. For further information about USF, visit: www.usiouxfalls.edu

QUALIFICATIONS

• A master's degree in business administration, philanthropy, communication, or a related field is preferred.
• Proven record of successful and progressive fundraising experience in a higher education or nonprofit setting preferred, as well as demonstrated desire for continuing professional growth.
• Demonstrated experience in cultivating and stewarding major donors and securing significant gifts.
• Substantial experience in alumni relations, external affairs, or related fields.
• Strong leadership abilities and dispositional qualities with the capacity to motivate, lead, and effectively collaborate with a dynamic team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated business writing ability.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to align advancement efforts with institutional goals.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing successful fundraising and engagement strategies.
• Alignment with and commitment to the Christian mission and values of the university.

This job announcement is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the AVP or Vice President for Institutional Advancement role. The responsibilities outlined above may be subject to change based on the evolving needs of the university.

APPLICATION

Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue until the position is filled. Applicants must submit the following to be considered for the position; applications must be complete to receive full consideration:

• Letter of intent/application
• Resume 
• Three letters of professional recommendation

Please note that initial telephone/Zoom interviews may be conducted without all recommendations submitted to USF, but the applicant file must be otherwise complete.

The review of applications will begin immediately as qualified applicants submit and will continue until the search is successful. A selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States. Upon hiring, official transcripts of the highest degree earned will be required. 

The University of Sioux Falls is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer.