Campus News

The Vice President of Advancement serves as the chief fundraising officer and strategic leader for all advancement activities at Rockford University. Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President is responsible for envisioning, developing, and executing a comprehensive advancement strategy to ensure sustainable revenue growth. This leader will build upon a well-organized, highly collaborative and smoothly running office to elevate the university’s fundraising success, deepen donor engagement, and advance the institution’s mission. The VP of Advancement must be exceptionally comfortable asking donors for major gifts and adept at strategically positioning the President and other university leaders to engage with key prospects.

We are looking for a visionary leader with a unique mix of attributes that will ensure the VP of Advancement will not only excel in traditional fundraising, but will also bring a transformative approach to donor engagement, institutional storytelling, and relationship building.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Vision and Leadership:

• Develop and implement a strategic advancement plan aligned with the university’s goals and mission.
• Inspire and lead the advancement team to achieve ambitious fundraising objectives and foster a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Provide strategic guidance to the President, Board of Trustees, and other university leaders to maximize philanthropic opportunities.
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Major Gifts and Donor Engagement:

• Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals and foundations to secure significant contributions.
• Expand planned giving opportunities.
• Collaborate with the President to plan and execute donor visits, ensuring effective preparation and follow-up to maximize outcomes.
• Build authentic, lasting relationships with alumni, parents, and other stakeholders to expand the university’s donor base.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Partner with academic leaders, faculty, and staff to identify and articulate funding priorities.
• Serve as a key ambassador for the university, representing its values and priorities to external audiences.
• Foster a strong partnership with the Board of Trustees and Advancement Committee.

Office Management and Operations:

• Oversee the advancement team and ensure efficient operation of the office, including donor relations, annual giving, planned giving, and alumni engagement.
• Utilize data and metrics to drive decision-making and assess the effectiveness of advancement initiatives.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively to maximize return on investment.

Attributes and Abilities:

•  A deep understanding of and sensitivity to the motivations and aspirations of donors, alumni, and other stakeholders, fostering authentic, trust-based relationships.
• Ability to craft and communicate compelling narratives that connect donors’ passions with the university’s mission, inspiring transformative and generous support.
• Capacity to see connections across disciplines, departments, and industries, unlocking innovative approaches to advancement.
• Talent for transforming meetings, campus tours, and donor visits into memorable experiences that deepen commitment and excitement.
• Ability to generate enthusiasm and maintain sustained focus on long-term goals, particularly during multi-year campaigns or initiatives.
• A commitment to continuous growth, staying attuned to trends in philanthropy, higher education, and society at large.
• Willingness to experiment with new strategies, challenge traditional approaches, and embrace bold ideas to advance the university’s mission.
• A balance of self-assured leadership with the humility to listen, adapt, and elevate the contributions of others.
• Experience working in higher education or in the non-profit sector a plus.
• Proficiency in using donor management software and data analytics to inform strategies a plus.
• A bachelor’s degree is required, an advanced degree a plus.

At Rockford University, we are reimagining the future of higher education. As a member of our team, you will play a vital role in shaping innovative strategies that challenge traditional approaches and drive meaningful change. Our collaborative and forward-thinking culture empowers individuals to make a lasting impact on our students, our institution, and the world beyond. If you are passionate about bold ideas, inspired by creativity, and ready to help redefine what is possible in higher education, we invite you to join us on this transformative journey.

 To apply:

Please submit resume, cover letter indicating salary requirements, and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu. Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position if filled. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an annual salary of $110,000-$120,000.

At Rockford University we are committed to the principle of diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to building a well-rounded workforce and community.  We are especially interested in candidates who through their professional experience bring contributions to diversity and excellence in the work they do.