Major Gift Associate

Cornell University welcomes candidates for the position of Major Gift Associate in the David

A. Duffield College of Engineering team within our Alumni Affairs and Development division, based in Ithaca, NY. This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the university's advancement efforts.

The Major Gift Associate (MGA) is a key member of Cornell Duffield Engineering’s development team, partnering with the Director of Development and Major Gifts Officers (MGOs) to advance fundraising priorities and build meaningful relationships with alumni, parents, and friends. The MGA combines strong writing and project management skills with prospect development, donor strategy, and stewardship to move major gift solicitations forward and support the college’s fundraising goals.

• Develop written fundraising materials for diverse audiences, including compelling proposals, solicitation documentation, meeting briefings, gift agreements, fundraising priorities, stewardship communications, and other donor-facing materials.
• Partner with MGOs on donor strategy by supporting prospect identification, portfolio development, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities aligned with college and university priorities.
• In collaboration with MGOs, be accountable for delivery of complex fundraising initiatives and projects by managing timelines, advancing key action items, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring continuity throughout the solicitation and gift process.
• Develop and maintain in-depth knowledge of college and university priorities, translating complex programs and initiatives into clear, persuasive communications that demonstrate the impact of philanthropic support.
• Support pipeline development by researching and evaluating prospective donors for consideration by the Director of Development and MGOs.
• Be an active, contributing member of the team and division by attending meetings and events, providing ideas, and collaborating across the college and Alumni Affairs and Development division to advance the university’s work and strengthen relationships with donors.

• Bachelor's degree and 3–5 years of relevant professional experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including demonstrated strength in persuasive and business writing.
• Strong organizational, project management, and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, including the ability to build productive working relationships with colleagues across the university, alumni, volunteers, and senior leaders.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer software applications, databases, and information systems, along with the ability to research, synthesize, and communicate complex information accurately.

Building on our 150-plus-year legacy as one of the nation’s preeminent engineering colleges, the Cornell David

A. Duffield College of Engineering is a purpose-driven, inclusive community committed to developing the knowledge, capabilities, and people needed to forge a better future. Comprising more than 10 schools and departments, we are rooted in Ithaca, New York, with a growing presence in New York City and a global network of alumni and collaborators. Guided by our core values, our faculty and staff regularly engage across disciplines and intentionally bring together a range…