Director of Donor Relations and Planned Giving
At Blackburn College, every role makes a difference. Our faculty and staff are mentors, collaborators, and an essential part of a close-knit campus community dedicated to student success. Whether you're inspiring students in the classroom, supporting them behind the scenes, coaching the next generation, or helping our campus thrive, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.
- Develop donor communications that demonstrate the impact of philanthropic support and Blackburn’s continued momentum.
- Oversee gift acknowledgment, donor recognition, stewardship, and impact-reporting programs.
- Build and maintain meaningful relationships with donors, planned giving prospects, and Heritage Society members.
- Develop marketing and communication strategies that educate alumni and friends about legacy giving opportunities and encourage future giving.
- Collaborate with Institutional Advancement colleagues to incorporate planned giving opportunities into donor conversations and cultivation strategies.
- Manage stewardship reporting for endowed and restricted funds and collaborate with campus partners to help ensure funds are used according to donor intent.
- Monitor donor retention, engagement, and stewardship efforts and identify opportunities for continued improvement.
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- At least three years of direct experience in a nonprofit fundraising environment preferred, particularly experience with donor stewardship or recognition programs.
- Excellent written, verbal, editing, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, take initiative, exercise sound judgment, and work collaboratively with a wide range of constituents.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn new software systems; experience with Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge and/or ADAVICO is preferred.
- Flexibility to occasionally work evenings and weekends for College and Institutional Advancement events.
- Willingness to travel occasionally as needed.
- Commitment to Blackburn College’s mission and an appreciation for the transformative impact of a liberal arts education and the College’s nationally recognized Work Program.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Blackburn College is more than a place to work — it’s a community where your work makes an impact.
Located in Carlinville, Illinois, Blackburn is a distinctive four-year liberal arts college known for combining a rigorous, affordable education with our nationally recognized student-managed Work Program. Our unique approach brings work, learning, and leadership together, giving students opportunities to develop skills and experience that extend far beyond the classroom.
At Blackburn, faculty and staff play an important role in creating an environment where students are known, supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow. Whether you're teaching in the classroom, supporting campus operations, coaching student-athletes, or working behind the scenes, every position contributes to the Blackburn experience.
What Makes Blackburn Different?
Student-Centered — Our close-knit campus creates opportunities to build meaningful connections with students and colleagues.
A One-of-a-Kind Work Program — Blackburn is home to a distinctive student-managed Work Program that gives students hands-on experience, responsibility, and leadership opportunities.
A True Campus Community — Faculty, staff, and students work together to support the College and one another.
Opportunity to Make an Impact — At a smaller institution, your ideas, expertise, and contributions are seen and valued.
A Mission That Matters — We are committed to providing an accessible, high-quality education while preparing students for meaningful careers, community engagement, and lifelong learning.
Come build your career at Blackburn College — and help our students build theirs.
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