Valparaiso University seeks a Major Gift Officer to advance the philanthropic mission of Valparaiso University by building and managing a portfolio of major gift prospects, including alumni, parents, friends, and foundations. The Major Gift Officer will develop and implement personalized cultivation strategies that deepen relationships and engage donors in the university’s vision and initiatives. The Major Gift Officer will identify, qualify, and solicit major gifts, while collaborating with the Assistant Vice President for Development and the Advancement team to create compelling proposals, and ensure donors receive meaningful updates on the impact of their contributions. The Major Gift Officer also will design customized stewardship plans that express gratitude and foster long-term engagement, while effectively managing a portfolio through personal visits, correspondence, and digital communication. Working in close partnership with colleagues across the university, the Major Gift Officer will align fundraising efforts, identify funding priorities, and leverage opportunities for support.

Valparaiso University (Valpo) is an independent Lutheran school with a reputation for extraordinary academics, as well as a bright, energetic spirit. Valpo offers more than 70 undergraduate majors in five colleges and more than 20 graduate programs. With an average class size of 21, the university boasts a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university offers study abroad opportunities with dedicated study centers in England, Germany, Costa Rica, and China, and additional opportunities available in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and Central and South America. Valparaiso University athletics field seven men’s and ten women’s teams in NCAA Division I competition as part of the Missouri Valley Conference, Pioneer League, and Mid-American Conference. Over 100 co-curricular organizations provide opportunities to get involved outside the classroom, and a focus on community involvement is evidenced by the more than 247,000 combined hours of community outreach and service-learning opportunities performed by students. There are also ten fraternities and seven sororities, and 55% of all students live on campus. With more than 70,000 Valparaiso University alumni around the world, there is a strong network of Valpo graduates to offer their time, talent, and treasure in support of students and the institution.

"I am thrilled that you are considering a position with the Advancement team at Valparaiso University. I take great pride in our collaborative and forward-thinking team. We encourage creativity, champion new ideas, and are committed to achieving results that make a tangible difference in the lives of our Valpo family. The work we do is both rewarding and meaningful, as we connect with individuals who believe in Valpo's mission and its impact on the world. If you are a dynamic professional who thrives on building relationships, driving results, and contributing to a team environment, I invite you to learn more about this opportunity. Together, we can advance Valparaiso University's legacy of preparing leaders who transform communities." — Marie Foster-Bruns, Vice President for Advancement

For more information, including core competencies and qualifications, please refer to the full prospectus.