Major Gift Officer

Valparaiso University - Valparaiso, IN
Valparaiso University seeks a Major Gift Officer who will 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, Development and the Advancement team to create compelling proposals, and ensure donors receive meaningful updates on the impact of their contributions.

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. As a faith-based school, Valparaiso University works towards a mission that focuses on both the academic and spiritual journeys of its students. Valpo provides a community of learning dedicated to excellence and grounded in the Lutheran tradition of scholarship, freedom, and faith — preparing students to lead and serve in both church and society. It prides itself on being a welcoming community for all faiths, built on values of mutual respect, positive regard, and academic freedom. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it one of the top ten regional universities in the Midwest and it is currently listed among the best nationally ranked colleges.

"I’m excited you’re considering a role with Valparaiso University’s Advancement team. With our incoming President, Rev. Brian Konkol, Valpo is embracing bold initiatives that strengthen academics, invest in state-of-the-art facilities, and expand access for students from all backgrounds. Our mission—to prepare students to lead and serve in both church and society—guides everything we do, and Advancement plays a central role in bringing it to life. The Major Gift Officer is a key partner in this work, connecting generous donors to opportunities that transform lives. As Assistant Vice President, Development, I’m proud to lead a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values creativity, champions new ideas, and delivers results that make a real difference for our students and community.

If you thrive on building relationships, driving results, and contributing to a team making an impact, I encourage you to explore this opportunity. Together, we can advance Valpo’s legacy of preparing leaders who transform communities.
" — Christine Radtke, Assistant Vice President, Development

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