Description

Illinois State University is seeking an Assistant Vice President for Alumni and Donor Engagement to help shape the next chapter of alumni connection, donor engagement, and philanthropic growth.

This is a unique opportunity to bring together alumni engagement, annual giving, and donor stewardship under a unified strategy that strengthens relationships, grows donor support, and creates lasting impact.

University Advancement is entering an exciting period of growth and momentum. The division recently achieved a record $44.5 million fundraising year, has grown the University's endowment from $78 million to more than $265 million over the past decade, and is preparing for the public phase of a comprehensive campaign that will help define Illinois State's future.

Reporting to the Vice President for University Advancement, the Assistant Vice President will lead a newly integrated department responsible for alumni engagement, annual giving, and donor stewardship. This leader will help shape strategy, build a high-performing team, strengthen relationships with alumni and donors, and play a key role in preparing Illinois State for its next era of philanthropic growth.

The successful candidate will help strengthen the pipeline of engaged alumni and donors that will advance Illinois State's ambitious vision and fuel its next chapter of philanthropic growth.

Why Illinois State? Why Now?

This is an exciting time to be part of Illinois State University. Illinois State serves nearly 22,000 students and is supported by a network of more than 245,000 alumni worldwide. The University continues to build momentum through strategic investments, academic excellence, and a commitment to student success.

Recent accomplishments include:

•          Record private support of $44.5 million
•          Endowment growth from $78 million to more than $265 million over the past decade
•          Launch of Illinois State's first College of Engineering
•          Approval for new STEM facilities on campus
•          Growing recognition for academic quality, value, and student outcomes
•          Preparation for the public phase of a comprehensive campaign that will help shape the University's future

The foundation is strong. The momentum is real. The opportunity to help shape what comes next has never been greater.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Vice President for University Advancement, the Assistant Vice President for Alumni and Donor Engagement will lead a newly integrated department responsible for:

•          Alumni Engagement
•          Annual Giving
•          Donor Stewardship

This leader will:

•          Build and execute a comprehensive engagement strategy that strengthens alumni connection and philanthropic participation
•          Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing team focused on measurable outcomes and continuous improvement
•          Expand the pipeline of engaged alumni and donors who will support Illinois State's future priorities
•          Help position the University for success as it enters the next phase of campaign activity
•          Create a donor-centered experience that deepens relationships and inspires lifelong engagement
•          Serve as a key member of the University Advancement leadership team and contribute to divisional strategy and performance

This is an opportunity for a strategic builder who combines vision, execution, relationship-building, and entrepreneurial energy to create lasting impact across campus and with alumni and friends of Illinois State.

The Leader We Seek

The ideal candidate is:

•          A relationship-centered leader who understands how alumni and donor engagement drives philanthropy
•          An accomplished builder of teams, programs, and partnerships
•          A strategic thinker who translates vision into measurable results
•          An entrepreneurial leader who embraces change and continuous improvement
•          A collaborative partner who values accountability, excellence, and shared success
•          A leader who inspires others while creating a culture of high performance and engagement

Bloomington-Normal: A Dynamic Community

Home to major employers including State Farm, COUNTRY Financial, and Rivian, Bloomington-Normal offers a unique combination of economic vitality, affordability, and quality of life.

The community features:

•          Outstanding healthcare systems
•          Excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
•          A thriving arts and cultural scene
•          Extensive parks and recreational opportunities

Illinois State University anchors a community known for innovation, opportunity, and an exceptional quality of life.

Help Shape What Comes Next

At Illinois State University, alumni engagement and philanthropy are essential drivers of student success, institutional excellence, and a transformational ISU experience.

This is more than a leadership position. It is an opportunity to help shape the future of Illinois State University and build on the momentum, ambition, and bold vision for what comes next.

Review of applications will begin after June 17, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to apply early. To learn more, view the complete position description and submit an application, visit Illinois State University's employment website at Job Posting #521908, https://jobsearch.illinoisstate.edu/en-us/job/521908/assistant-vice-president-for-alumni-and-donor-engagement.