Director of Development - Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources; IANR

• • Posted on October 2, 2026

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Lincoln, NE 68508, USA

• Fundraising
• Full-Time
• Requisition #: DIREC
  001419

Be a trusted, strategic, fundraising partner to enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives.

• Do you have a passion for UNL and the transformative impact of higher education on the future of agriculture in the state of Nebraska?
• Do your strong interpersonal skills allow you to uncover the visions and dreams of donors?
• Do you possess the emotional intelligence and authenticity that it takes to meaningfully connect with people and build long-term relationships on behalf of the University?
• Are you inspired by the mission of the University of Nebraska Foundation and looking to make a difference in the lives of others?

At the University of Nebraska Foundation, we grow relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. We believe that our strong commitment to inclusion and respect is essential to accomplishing this mission through our values of teamwork, integrity, and passion for mission. We invite, explore, and celebrate differences to increase productivity, spark innovation and most importantly, accomplish our mission.

You will join the foundation at an exciting time, with the opportunity to make a transformational impact. The foundation is in the public phase of a historic campaign to raise $3 billion to build a better future for Nebraska. The campaign is being led by many enthusiastic volunteers representing all areas of the University of Nebraska System. UNL anchors the campaign, with a goal of $1.5 billion from enthusiastic donors.

This position will work in our Lincoln office.

• Play a critical role in building a robust community of philanthropic support by partnering with IANR leadership.
• Build relationships and partnerships with alumni, community leaders, and donors to align their philanthropy with IANR.
• Plan and implement major gift fundraising strategies including identification, cultivation, and stewardship of donors.
• Strategize complex and impactful gifts with a sophisticated, knowledgeable donor base.

• Relationally talented individuals who make authentic connections, facilitate meaningful conversations, and provide customized solutions to help generous donors fulfill their philanthropic goals.

• Intellectually curious individuals who ask questions, think strategically, and take initiative.
• Energetic learners who are inquisitive and desire to continually grow in their career.
• Empathetic communicators who can connect with others by listening and asking the right questions.
• Genuine and approachable individuals who can work with a wide variety of people, including colleagues and university personnel.
• Collaborative and positive team players who are passionate about what they do.

• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree required.
  Preferred Education
  :
  Master’s degree.
• Minimum Experience
  : 1-3 years’ experience in a development, fundraising, sales, client-facing role or a related field.
  Preferred Experience
  : an affinity for IANR or Nebraskan agriculture.
• Demonstrated success in the solicitation of annual and major gifts.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to coordinate and manage a variety of projects and programs simultaneously.
• An affinity for Nebraska.
• Discretion in handling and navigating confidential matters.
• Candidates will also be evaluated on our core values of passion for mission, integrity, and teamwork.

• This position will work in our Lincoln office. We offer flexibility for hybrid work. This position will require travel.
• Mission-driven work that changes lives and saves lives.
• A strengths-based,…