Assistant Director of , College of Health & Human Sciences

Assistant Director of Advancement, College of Health & Human Sciences (3642) Position Summary

Are you ready to be a driving force behind the next generation of health and human science professionals? We are seeking an Assistant Director of Advancement to fuel the mission of Northern Illinois University’s College of Health and Human Sciences (CHHS). In this high‑impact role you will be a strategic partner in turning philanthropic potential into tangible progress.

• Communication: High proficiency in oral and written communication, including the ability to personally engage individuals and solicit contributions of time, talent, and philanthropy.
• Strategic Relationship Building: Natural talent for building lasting, productive relationships with alumni, donors, and campus colleagues.
• Analytical Precision: Ability to assess complex situations accurately and devise effective strategies to advance the donor pipeline.
• Event & Group Mastery: Proficiency in coordinating high‑impact events and group sessions that drive networking and engagement.
• Integrity: Deep commitment to maintaining confidentiality and meeting high ethical standards.
• Adaptability & Drive: Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant experience in fundraising, relations, or sales, with flexibility to travel and work evenings or weekends as needed.

Personal Solicitation & Qualification – 60%

• Provide knowledge and expertise related to NIUF and CHHS program engagement planning to advance the College’s donor pipeline.
• Conduct at least 60 quality interactions with a strategically identified group of alumni and donors annually.
• Personally solicit gifts of $1,000+ (including major gifts of $25,000+), qualifying major and planned‑gift prospects through strategic engagement.
• Secure $250,000+ in total philanthropic activity annually.
• Assist with direct mail and digital solicitations.

Alumni Donor & Engagement – 20%

• Engage alumni and donors to cultivate support through volunteerism, event attendance, and financial contributions.
• Maintain systematic communication with alumni and donors to keep them informed about the university’s and college’s initiatives and impact.
• Assist with stewardship of endowed and expendable funds, ensuring appropriate utilization and clear communication of impact.
• Identify, train, and mobilize advisory council volunteers to enhance engagement and support for NIU and the College.

Event Coordination & Administrative Duties – 20%

• Organize new and leverage existing events locally and regionally to foster alumni and donor networking.
• Assist with the successful execution of the Annual Day of Giving, including planning and execution of related activities.
• Assist with the College’s Advisory Council, coordinating meetings and facilitating communication and collaboration between the council and the college.
• Collaborate closely with various departments and teams to achieve Advancement goals, particularly in alumni support.

• At least two (2) years of relevant experience in fundraising, alumni relations, event planning, communications, or sales.

• High level of proficiency in oral and written communication.
• Ability to personally contact and engage individuals and solicit contributions.
• Proficiency in coordinating events and group sessions.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication.
• Ability to build lasting, productive relationships with alumni, donors, and NIU colleagues.
• Analytical skills to assess situations accurately and devise effective strategies.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
• Availability for evening and weekend work with periodic travel.
• Valid driver’s license and use of personal transportation.
• Should be able to perform responsibilities and physical demands with or without reasonable accommodations.

• Must be able to talk and hear, stand for long periods, walk, use fingers and hands to manipulate objects, reach with hands and arms, and lift and carry 20 lbs regularly.

In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employer and does not…