What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vice President for Institutional Advancement position at Blackburn College?
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Blackburn College – Carlinville, Illinois
Blackburn College—one of the nation’s Work Colleges and the only one with a fully student managed program is seeking an experienced and inspiring leader to serve as our next Vice President for Institutional Advancement. Located within easy reach of St. Louis, Edwardsville, and Springfield, Blackburn offers an affordable and welcoming region to live and work. With 30% enrollment growth over the past two years and record fundraising success, this is a moment of extraordinary momentum and opportunity for an ambitious and mission-driven advancement leader.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the President and serving as a key member of the senior leadership team, the Vice President for Institutional Advancement will shape, lead, and implement a comprehensive and integrated advancement program that supports Blackburn’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term vision. The Vice President will lead a dedicated team of professional, support, and student staff; collaborate closely with Trustees, alumni, volunteers, and campus partners; and steward a growing culture of philanthropy across the institution.
This leadership role oversees all major areas of advancement, including:
● Strategic planning, fundraising strategy, and campaign leadership
● Major gifts, annual fund, planned giving, and donor stewardship
● Alumni engagement and advancement communications
● Prospect research, data management, and CRM development
● Development-oriented publications and alumni outreach
● Trustee engagement in partnership with the Trusteeship Committee
● Staff recruitment, supervision, evaluation, training, and professional development
In addition to department leadership, the Vice President will maintain an active portfolio of major gift donors, modeling excellence in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
The Successful Candidate Will Have:
● Enthusiasm for Blackburn College’s mission, programs, and work college model
● A proven track record in major gift fundraising and donor development
● Progressive experience within an advancement program, preferably in higher education
● Demonstrated ability to plan, lead, and evaluate fundraising strategies and budgets
● Strong managerial, organizational, and team-building skills
● Excellent written and oral communication with diverse audiences
● Knowledge of fundraising policies, systems, and technologies
● Willingness to travel
● Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred
Apply Now:
Blackburn College features a robust benefits package. Benefit details are available at https://blackburn.edu/about/administrative-offices/human-resources/ Click on the Employee Benefits Summary Tab.
Blackburn College is an Equal Opportunity Employer building an inclusive community that engages the interests of a diverse population. We are committed to fostering, cultivating, and sustaining a culture that reflects the diversity of our country, and encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups such as women, people of color, LGBTQ , veterans, and those with disabilities. Employment-based immigration sponsorship is not offered for this position. Phone calls / walk-ins not accepted. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled.
Interested candidates should submit their resume, cover letter including a statement describing the meaning and importance of diversity, and three professional references to hr@blackburn.edu