"Major Gifts Officer"

Major Gifts Officer

Company: Shippensburg University Foundation

Job Location: [Not specified in detail]

Category: Development and Fundraising

Type: Full-Time

Email: lfclin@sufoundation.org

The Shippensburg University Foundation is accepting applications and nominations for a Major Gifts Officer position. We are seeking a highly motivated, relationship-driven fundraiser to join our award-winning team dedicated to advancing the mission of Shippensburg University—a nationally recognized, regional, comprehensive public university.

As a key member of the Foundation’s development team, the Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gift prospects and donors. Reporting to the Director of Major Gifts, the MGO will work closely with one of the University’s academic college deans, supporting strategic fundraising initiatives that align with college and institutional priorities.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact at a mission-driven organization with a strong culture of philanthropy and alumni loyalty. The SU Foundation offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare and a TIAA retirement plan.

Why Join the Shippensburg University Foundation?

• Join a high-performing, mission-focused team that values innovation, collaboration, and results.
• Play a critical role in securing resources that directly impact student success and academic excellence.
• Enjoy a supportive workplace culture with strong leadership and engaged board members.

To Apply

To be considered, please share your application materials—including a cover letter, resume, contact information for three professional references, and salary requirements—with Dr. Leslie Folmer Clinton, President and CEO, at lfclin@sufoundation.org. Applications received by October 10, 2025.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors using the Moves Management strategy.
• Develop and implement personalized cultivation and solicitation strategies for assigned prospects, with a focus on major and planned gifts of $25,000 and above.
• Conduct face-to-face and virtual donor visits to advance relationships and secure philanthropic support.
• Collaborate with the Director of Major Gifts, fellow MGOs, and the Annual Fund team to ensure coordinated donor engagement.
• Partner with assigned college dean to understand programmatic priorities and develop compelling cases for support.
• Prepare proposals, briefing documents, and stewardship reports tailored to donor interests.
• Track all donor activity and progress using the Foundation’s CRM system.
• Represent the SU Foundation at donor, alumni, and university events, including occasional evening and weekend responsibilities.
• Support broader development initiatives, including capital campaigns, planned giving efforts, and special initiatives.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., communications, business, nonprofit management, public relations).
• A minimum of three years of experience in fundraising, sales, or a related field involving relationship management and revenue generation.
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate and solicit gifts or sales from individuals or organizations.

Preferred:

• Experience in higher education fundraising.
• Familiarity with Moves Management or similar donor engagement strategies.
• Strong knowledge of fundraising best practices and ethics.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and listening skills.
• Ability to build relationships with donors, alumni, faculty, and staff.
• Strong strategic thinking, organization, and planning skills.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency with donor management software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge)
• Willingness to travel regionally and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.