Major Gifts Officer

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

The Major Gifts Officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gift prospects to support the mission, priorities, and strategic goals of the university. This position plays a key role in building and maintaining strong relationships with alumni, donors, corporations, and foundations to secure significant financial support for scholarships, academic programs, capital projects, and other university initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular outreach, including personal visits, phone calls, and written communications, to cultivate and strengthen donor relationships.
• Partner with university leadership, faculty, and staff to align donor interests with institutional priorities.
• Prepare customized proposals, presentations, and stewardship materials for donors and prospects.
• Collaborate with Advancement Services to ensure accurate and timely entry of donor interactions and gift documentation in the CRM system.
• Coordinate recognition events, donor receptions, and campus visits to enhance engagement and visibility.
• Work with the Marketing and Communications team to develop compelling case statements and fundraising materials.
• Track fundraising progress and prepare reports for leadership on pipeline activity, solicitations, and gifts received.
• Participate in strategic planning sessions to set annual fundraising goals and performance metrics.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding donor and institutional information.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in fundraising, development, alumni relations, or a related field—preferably within higher education or nonprofit organizations.
• Proven success in cultivating and soliciting major gifts.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.