Director of Development – College of Journalism and Mass Communications

Be a trusted, strategic, fundraising partner to enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives.

• Are you excited to fundraise for a professional college that supports a rapidly changing industry?
• Do you have the drive and desire to partner with professionals and future leaders through the College of Journalism and Mass Communications who are a force for good in Nebraska and beyond?
• Do you have the vision and executive presence to help college alumni and philanthropic partners fulfill their legacies?
• Do you have a curiosity and appreciation for the study of liberal arts and a strong desire to support the next generation of leaders?
• Have you been a successful fundraiser well versed in the best practices of the profession?

If so, we invite you to apply for this exciting role!     

At the University of Nebraska Foundation, we grow relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. We believe that our strong commitment to inclusion and respect is essential to accomplishing this mission through our values of teamwork, integrity, and passion for mission. We invite, explore, and celebrate differences to increase productivity, spark innovation and most importantly, accomplish our mission.

You will join the foundation at an exciting time, with the opportunity to make a transformational impact. The foundation is in the public phase of a historic campaign to raise $3 billion to build a better future for Nebraska. The campaign is being led by many enthusiastic volunteers representing all areas of the University of Nebraska System. UNL anchors the campaign, with a goal of $1.5 billion from enthusiastic donors. This position will work in our Lincoln office.

Ways you will make an impact:

• Play a critical role in building a robust community of philanthropic support by partnering with university staff and College of Journalism and Mass Communications administrators, leadership, and faculty.
• Plan and implement major gift fundraising strategies, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gift donors.
• Foster relationships with alumni, community leaders, and engaged philanthropists to align their philanthropy with the charitable priorities of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications.
• Assist in the creation and implementation of the designated campus’ overall development strategy.

Who we want:

• Relationally talented individuals who make authentic connections, facilitate meaningful conversations, and provide customized solutions to help generous donors fulfill their philanthropic goals.

• Compassionate communicators who are energized by the opportunity to build long lasting partnerships with others.

• Genuine and approachable individuals who can work with a wide variety of people, including colleagues and university personnel.
• Intellectually curious individuals who can think strategically and collaborate with others.
• Self-motivated and driven individuals who want to make a difference.
• Empathetic communicators who can connect with others by listening and asking the right questions.
• Energetic, optimistic learners who are humble, inquisitive, open-minded, and excited about making a meaningful impact with the College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

What you need:

• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree required. Preferred Education: Master’s degree.
• Experience: 1-3 years’ experience in development, fundraising, sales, or a related field with transferable skills.
• Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated success in the solicitation of annual and major gifts, or transferable skills.
• Ability to coordinate and manage a variety of projects and programs simultaneously.
• Discretion in handling and navigating confidential matters.
• Candidates will also be evaluated on our core values of passion for mission, integrity, and teamwork.

What we offer:

• This position will work in our Lincoln office. We offer flexibility for hybrid work. This position will require travel.
• Mission-driven work that changes lives and saves lives.
• A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities for your career growth.
• An award-winning wellness program.
• 12 weeks of paid medical leave, including maternity and paternity leave.
• 12 paid holidays and generous vacation time.
• A generous retirement match and multiple incentive compensation programs.
• University of Nebraska tuition reimbursement for you and your dependents.

Who we are:

• Recognition by the Chronicle of Philanthropy as one of America’s Favorite Charities.
• Founded in 1936, the University of Nebraska Foundation provides support for the campuses in the university system — the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center and its primary clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine.
• Among public universities, the University of Nebraska ranks in the top 25 nationally for both funds raised and endowed assets under management.
• The foundation has a reputation for efficiency and effectiveness, raising more than $7 for every $1 spent.
• Winner of Gallup’s Don Clifton Strengths-Based Culture Award.
• Winner of the Governor’s Harvester Wellness Award, the highest honor for corporate wellness.

The University of Nebraska Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to a work environment free from discrimination and harassment where all employees feel respected and valued. We will consider all qualified applicants in accordance with applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.