DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

ESU Foundation

Search 2453- Posted March 1, 2026

The Director of Development is responsible for leading philanthropic support for Emporia State University. The position develops and executes fundraising strategies that advance the school’s and institutional priorities through major gifts, planned gifts, campaign support, and donor stewardship. The Director serves as a fundraising professional and works collaboratively with Foundation leadership, Deans, faculty, volunteers, and university stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide strategic leadership for fundraising initiatives in partnership with Foundation leadership, the Dean, and faculty.
• Manage a portfolio of approximately 40-60 donors and prospective donors. Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects.
• Achieve annual fundraising objectives related to donor visits, solicitations, proposals, dollars raised, planned gifts, and campaign commitments.
• Prepare and present gift proposals and collaborate on leadership and transformational gift opportunities.
• Develop and implement fundraising strategies supporting athletic scholarships, facilities, endowments, and program priorities.
• Maintain accurate donor records, contact reports, portfolio strategies, and fundraising documentation.
• Represent Emporia State University and the Foundation at donor events, athletic contests, alumni activities, and community engagements.
  

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Seven or more years of successful fundraising, development, sales, business development, or relationship management experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, communicate effectively, and achieve measurable goals
  

COMPENSATION:

Salary : $85,000-95,000.00

Qualifications and previous experience will be considered for placement of base rank and salary.

BENEFITS:

Base pay is one component of Emporia State University’s total rewards package. We are dedicated to supporting the needs of the “whole you” with our holistic approach to employee benefits by offering comprehensive well-being benefits for you and your family that include:

• Health Insurance
• Free Dental insurance for employees
• Retirement through the Kansas Board of Regents
• Paid parental leave
• Up to 31 days paid vacation and holiday days
• Tuition reduction and tuition assistance
• Dependent tuition waiver

APPLY:

Please upload a cover letter, resume, and contact information of three references.

Consideration of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until the position is filled.

A background check is required prior to hire.

For more information

Human Resources

humres@emporia.edu

(620) 341-5379

Emporia State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, sex, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other factors which cannot be considered by law.