Advancement Writer

The Advancement Writer (Public Affairs/Communication Specialist II) in the University Advancement division works independently, under the general supervision of the Executive Director of Annual Giving & Special Projects, to produce engaging, compelling, and strategic content and messaging for printed and digital platforms by identifying development priorities and stories with philanthropic connections, identifying and meeting with subject matter experts, and thoroughly researching material. This position will produce the most complex communication vehicles and compose sophisticated and compelling copy designed to engage donors, alumni, and friends with the campus, and that requires little rewriting. On occasion, stories may also be assigned. The content is shared with both internal and external audiences, and should support the University’s mission as well as align with established messaging.
For the campus’ comprehensive campaign, the Advancement Writer/Communications Specialist works closely with staff throughout University Advancement, campus faculty and administrators, and high-level donors and community volunteers, to research and produce products for use in educating, and encouraging the involvement of, alumni and donors.
Communication platforms and vehicles include, but are not limited to: case statements, vision statements, fact sheets, proposals, white papers, letters, brochures, website content, e-newsletters, social media posts, articles, ad copy, and other collateral.

Minimum Qualifications: 

Entry to the first level within this classification requires knowledge of the fundamentals of communications development. This background normally is obtained through a college degree, and up to two years of related professional or technical experience. In addition, strong written and verbal communication skills with a solid foundation in grammar, spelling, and the composition of various communication vehicles are essential to initial entry to this classification.

Required Qualifications: 

Education/Experience: 1. Bachelor’s degree, and a minimum of two years of related professional or technical experience.
2. Extensive experience with writing and editing a variety of complex communications materials for print and digital platforms for targeted internal and external audiences.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 3. Strong communication skills with solid foundation in grammar, spelling, and composition. 4. Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to effectively multi-task while meeting deadlines. 5. Excellent interpersonal skills including strong interviewing, listening and interpretive skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships and develop an understanding of diverse subject matters and areas across the entire campus. 6. Ability to recognize nuances and subtleties, as well as relevant and interesting story topics, to produce exceptional and engaging written materials (e.g. case statements, proposals, white papers, letters, brochures, website content, e-newsletters, social media, etc.) that require little editing or rewriting.
7. Ability to conduct thorough research, and to analyze and select pertinent facts and themes, to produce compelling and sophisticated content and integrate them into communication vehicles.
8. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. 9. Experience with establishing workflow calendars and adhering to deadlines. 10. Ability to produce compelling narratives, as well as materials that align with University, Advancement, and Comprehensive Campaign messaging and support strategic goals.
11. Ability to produce other written materials such as special reports or vision statements, as assigned.
12. Knowledge of AP (Associated Press) style.
13. Knowledge and understanding of current journalism approaches. 14. Proficient in the use of social media (e.g. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.), including capturing and/or posting visuals.

Conditions of Employment: - Ability to pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications:

15. Three to five years of experience in a professional communications role or setting.
16. Experience as a senior writer.
17. Familiarity working in a higher-education and/or fundraising environment.