Job Information
Drake University Advancement Officer - School of Law - 999016 in Des Moines, Iowa
Title: Advancement Officer - School of Law - 999016
Position Number: 999016
Unit/Department: Dean's Office Law
FTE: Full-time
About Drake University School of Law:
Drake Law School seamlessly blends a rich heritage with innovative technology and forward-thinking curriculum, including the nation's only First-Year Trial Practicum. Located in the heart of Des Moines, our law school offers an unmatched educational experience through cutting-edge facilities, a top-tier legal clinic, and robust connections with the legal community.
Since its founding in 1865 by Iowa Supreme Court justices George Wright and Chester Cole, Drake Law School has stood among the 25 oldest law schools in the country. Our founders envisioned a place where students could witness the law in action, fostering a tradition of real-world, practical experience that we continue to uphold today. Join us in our mission to create opportunities for service, leadership, and meaningful careers. Discover more about our vibrant community at: Drake Law School (https://www.drake.edu/law/) .
The Opportunity:
Are you ready to inspire change and make a significant impact? Drake Law School is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Advancement Officer to spearhead our fundraising efforts. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for leading the Law School's development efforts, cultivating meaningful relationships with alumni, and inspiring them to support our esteemed institution through major philanthropic contributions.
Reporting directly to the Dean, you will oversee all aspects of fundraising strategy, including major gifts, annual giving and alumni engagement and events. You will oversee a portfolio of approximately 125-150 major gift prospects, driving forward our mission through strategic identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
You will also play a key role in alumni engagement, working closely with leadership groups, student organizations, and coordinating alumni events. By collaborating with the Dean, the Vice President for University Advancement, and the University Development office, you will help achieve our ambitious goals and drive positive change. Drake University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where every individual can thrive.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead and manage all aspects of the law school’s development strategy, including major gifts, annual giving, and alumni engagement.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects capable of making significant contributions exceeding $50,000.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase annual fund contributions, engaging alumni, parents, and friends of the law school.
• Support alumni engagement activities, including class reunions, the Golden Gavel Society, and special events.
• Collaborate with the Dean, the Vice President for University Advancement, and the University Development office to align development efforts with the law school’s strategic priorities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, donors, and community partners to foster a culture of philanthropy and support.
• Undergo a three-month transition period with the current Advancement Officer to ensure a smooth handoff of major gift relationships.
• Serve as a senior advisor to a new and visionary law school dean who is eager to partner with and be shaped by you, prioritizing fundraising as part of a bold and transformational agenda.
• Lead all fundraising efforts for the Law School during a time of tremendous growth and opportunity, contributing to the school's expanding national presence and being instrumental in these foundational efforts.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree
• At least two years of successful fundraising experience in a nonprofit or higher education setting
• A relationship-driven individual with exceptional interpersonal skills
• Outstanding written and oral communication abilities
• Strong organizational skills and a collaborative spirit
• Ability to work independently, managing multiple tasks with high energy, motivation, and determination
• High degree of personal integrity and solid attendance record
• Willingness to travel frequently and work evenings and weekends as needed
Core Job Duties:
40% - Collaborate with the Dean and Director of Development to cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects capable of making gifts exceeding $50,000.
40% - Develop annual fund prospects capable of making President’s Circle-level annual gifts ($1,000/year) by engaging alumni, parents, and friends.
20% - Assist with alumni engagement activities, including class reunions, the Golden Gavel Society, and special events.
Salary & Benefits
We offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses, and dependents. This includes a popular tuition waiver policy and participation in two tuition exchange programs. Explore our digital benefits guide here: Drake Benefits Guide (Plan Year 2024) (https://www.drake.edu/hr/benefitsoverview/) .
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Please complete the online application through Drake's job board and provide a resume/CV, a cover letter, and contact information for three references.
Have Questions?
For inquiries about the application process or more information about working at Drake, please contact Drake Human Resources at jobs@drake.edu .
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of work authorization.
Review of Applications Begins:
Applications will be reviewed immediately and the position will remain open until filled.