Director of Development

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

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.

 Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Director of Development provides strategic leadership and oversight for the university's fundraising and philanthropic initiatives. This position is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive development program that secures financial support from alumni, corporations, foundations, and friends of the university. 

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with institutional goals and advancement priorities.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major gift prospects capable of contributing $25,000 or more.
• Lead and mentor a team of development professionals to achieve annual fundraising and engagement goals.
• Collaborate with university leadership, deans, faculty, and program directors to match donor interests with institutional funding opportunities.
• Oversee all aspects of donor relations, including recognition events, stewardship reports, and communications.
• Work with the Office of Alumni Relations to enhance alumni engagement and philanthropic participation.
• Partner with the Marketing and Communications team to create compelling fundraising materials, case statements, and donor impact stories.
• Manage corporate and foundation relations, including proposal development, grant tracking, and reporting.
• Ensure accurate data management and reporting within the donor database (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar CRM).
• Develop and monitor the annual development budget and fundraising goals.

Education

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Business, Communications, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in fundraising, advancement, or development—preferably within higher education or a nonprofit organization.
• Proven track record of cultivating, soliciting, and closing major and planned gifts.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact 

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.