Donor Relations Coordinator

University of Wisconsin System - La Crosse, WI

Full-time - Entry Level

La Crosse, WI

Educational Services

About the position

The Donor Relations Coordinator plays a crucial role in leading and coordinating stewardship strategies that support the philanthropic goals of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) and the UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation. This position is responsible for managing donor stewardship programs, ensuring effective communication and recognition of donors, and enhancing the overall success of University Advancement through strategic donor relations initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Manage a comprehensive tracking process for donor acknowledgements, recognition, ongoing communications, and continued cultivation of new and current donors.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures essential for a comprehensive donor relations program, including naming opportunities and signage, as well as donor clubs and recognition premiums.
• Manage a systematic and integrated donor relations program that encompasses gift announcements and donor recognition events.
• Work with university personnel on the purchase, installation, and management of donor recognition pieces, video monitors, signs, and related personalized honors.
• Manage a systematic recognition program for giving clubs and societies, ensuring accurate database records in collaboration with advancement services personnel.
• Assist with sourcing, documentation, and delivery of special recognition and stewardship gifts for donors or other friends of the university as needed.
• Coordinate donor events on and off campus.
• Identify and invite donors and prospects to Foundation sponsored events.
• Attend and assist at Foundation sponsored events.
• Design and create stewardship communication materials for various donor segments, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Develop and coordinate other donor communication pieces such as holiday cards, newsletters, and invitations.
• Assist in the development of story ideas for a variety of publications.
• Proofread and edit Foundation communication materials.
• Coordinate monthly emeriti/retiree meetings, including invitations, room, food arrangements, and speakers.
• Research and implement a robust program to engage emeriti faculty and retired staff.
• Conduct research, compile data, and prepare reports for internal and external audiences.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or four years of equivalent work experience.
• Ability to articulate in both spoken and written forms of communications.
• Two years experience in fundraising, higher education, public relations, or related field.

Nice-to-haves

• Prior Non-Profit, Higher Education, or experience in a related field.
• Four years experience in donor relations and/or university advancement.
• Proven and measurable organizational and time management skills.
• Exhibit professionalism through the ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Skilled at managing tasks independently.
• Ability to work effectively with people across multiple levels of an organization.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Benefits

• Paid vacation for 12-month positions.
• Excellent flexible health insurance with low co-pays and good coverage.
• Paid holidays and sick days.
• After 5 years of employment, you become vested in our retirement system which ensures income post-career.
• Highly competitive benefits compared to local industry and some of the strongest in state and nation.