Vice President for University Advancement

Position Summary

Slippery Rock University, a four-year, comprehensive university and leading member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, seeks a strategic, dynamic, and student-centric administrative fundraising professional to serve as its next Vice President for University Advancement.

The Position: Reporting to the University President, who is committed to the success of the University Advancement program, the Vice President for University Advancement functions as the senior advancement officer and supervises the directors of the units within the Division of University Advancement including Alumni Engagement, Special Events, and Advancement Services. The Vice President oversees the relationship with the Slippery Rock University Foundation, Inc., to ensure a coordinated approach to fundraising and advancement efforts. This critical roe will determine and drive a University-wide development strategy and will coordinate with senior leadership, Foundation leadership, academic leaders, faculty, staff, and alumni to serve the mission of the Colleges and overall University. The Vice President develops and executes the University’s fundraising programs, including annual fund campaigns, comprehensive campaigns, capital campaigns, special-needs campaigns, and planned and deferred gifts. The role also oversees budgetary responsibilities for all of University Advancement and the day-to-day operation of the Russell Wright Alumni House and Conference Center. Representing the President and University in various community, state, and regional activities, the Vice President fosters a positive image and external relations to promote Slippery Rock University and higher education.

The Foundation: Slippery Rock University Foundation, Inc. is a 501©3 nonprofit, independent from the University, with an endowment totaling $44.6 million and overall assets totaling $49.3 million. Established in 1970, the Foundation exists to generate, develop, and steward charitable gifts and other resources to support the priorities of Slippery Rock University and its students. In addition to seeking and managing private contributions and grants, the Foundation is the developer of the 39-acre Slippery Rock Technology Park. In 2016, the Foundation established the SRUF Student Housing LLC, which provides quality on-campus housing for more than 2,000 students in six residence halls.

Minimum Qualifications

A Master’s degree or other advanced degree is required. A minimum of seven years of significant, progressively responsible experience with development and fundraising efforts, experience with comprehensive/capital campaign, that include successful outcomes, and a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are also required. The Vice President must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, excellent organizational skills, and a collaborative style of leadership conducive to working effectively in an interdependent work environment. Successful performance in an on campus interview,

Preferred Qualifications

Highly preferred qualifications include experience in a higher education environment and in a senior leadership role. Experience leading a comprehensive/capital campaign; a proven record of accomplishment of securing major gifts, applying development best practice strategies, building philanthropic associations, leading large scale comprehensive or capital campaigns and annual giving programs. Experience in managing relationships with major donors; building a culture of philanthropy throughout an organization and within its constituency groups; managing volunteer leaders with fundraising responsibilities.

Posting Detail Information

Posting Date
08/28/2023

Closing Date

Open Until Filled
No

Notice of Non-Discrimination

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, or veteran status in its programs or activities in accordance with Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Assistant Vice President of Human Resources and Compliance/Title IX Coordinator
008 Old Main Building
104 Maltby Avenue
Slippery Rock University
Slippery Rock, PA 16057
724.738.2016

Respect for Individuals in the Community

Slippery Rock University provides an environment that respects, encourages, and promotes the talents and contributions of all. Slippery Rock University values a community with a shared sense of purpose, where people demonstrate mutual respect and appreciation. Slippery Rock University values diversity that honors and includes all persons regardless of age, creed, disability, ethnic heritage, gender, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status in academic and extracurricular endeavor, in the working environment, and in the daily life of the university community.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please upload all documents using the online system as well as providing contact information for five (5) professional references. Your application materials, particularly your cover letter, should address how your background and experiences align with the required and preferred qualifications for the position. Official transcripts will be required prior to employment. Full consideration will be given to applications received by September 29, 2023.