Director of Development, Stewardship & the Donor Experience

South Carolina State University, the state’s only public historically Black college and university (HBCU) and a Carnegie-classified R2 research institution, invites applications for the position of Director of Development, Stewardship & the Donor Experience within the Division of University Advancement.

Reporting directly to the Vice President for University Advancement, the Director will provide strategic leadership and operational management for donor stewardship, moves management, donor engagement, campaign coordination, and advancement events designed to strengthen philanthropy and deepen constituent relationships in support of South Carolina State University and The Power of SC State: A Capital Campaign to Elevate Excellence.

This position serves as a key member of the advancement leadership team and is responsible for building a culture of donor-centered philanthropy through exceptional stewardship, meaningful engagement experiences, strategic relationship management, and comprehensive campaign coordination. The Director will oversee stewardship societies, including the Thomas E. Miller Society, while ensuring the delivery of a premier donor experience that advances institutional priorities and strengthens lifelong relationships with alumni, donors, corporations, foundations, and friends of the University.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Strategic Fundraising & Development Leadership
• Moves Management Leadership
• Donor Stewardship & Recognition
• Donor Experience & Event Management
• Collaboration & Leadership
• Administrative Responsibilities

Minimum Requirements for entry into Position: 

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, advancement, donor relations, stewardship, event management, alumni engagement, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex projects and events.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience working with donor databases and CRM systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to excellent customer service and donor engagement.

Preferred Requirements for entry into Position: 

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience in higher education advancement, nonprofit fundraising, or campaign environments.
• Experience supporting comprehensive or capital campaigns.
• Knowledge of moves management and donor stewardship best practices.
• Experience with Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT or similar CRM platforms.
• Familiarity with HBCUs and mission-driven institutions.
• CFRE certification or progress toward certification preferred.

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