Alumni Relations Coordinator

About The Job

Location:

University of Minnesota Rochester, Rochester, MN. This position works in‑person in Rochester, MN. This role is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship.

The Alumni Engagement and Community Relations Coordinator at the University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR) is responsible for strengthening lifelong relationships between the university, its alumni and the broader Rochester community. This position leads strategic alumni engagement and community relations that advance UMR’s mission and enhance institutional pride, visibility, and connection.

Working closely with the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications, the Coordinator designs and delivers meaningful engagement opportunities throughout the alumni lifecycle—from recent graduates to established professionals and retirees. The role also serves as a key connector between alumni, community stakeholders, university leadership, faculty, staff, and student leaders, fostering collaboration and shared investment in UMR’s success.

• Alumni Relations & Engagement (Primary Focus) – 40% Develop, implement, and lead a comprehensive alumni engagement strategy that fosters lifelong connection to UMR. Plan and execute a wide range of alumni programs and events including reunions, networking, professional development, mentoring, lifelong learning, and recognition activities. Serve as the primary point of contact for UMR alumni, maintaining strong relationships across a variety of industries and career stages.
  
  Manage alumni volunteer network, oversee budget, maintain accurate records, and analyze engagement data.
• Event Planning & Management – 20% Plan, manage, and execute alumni engagement events in collaboration with internal partners. Ensure events are inclusive, engaging, and aligned with UMR’s strategic priorities. Evaluate participation and feedback to improve future programming.
• Community, Government, and Campus Relations – 20% Build and sustain positive relationships with local and regional partners, support government and civic engagement efforts, and represent UMR at community and government events.
• Communications & Strategy – 15% Lead alumni‑focused communications across print, email, social media, newsletters, and digital content. Shape alumni messaging and use data to inform program design and impact assessment.
• Other Duties as Assigned – 5%

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, Higher Education, or a related field.
• At least four years of professional experience in alumni relations, community engagement, volunteer management, event planning, or related field (higher education experience preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with diverse audiences.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience working with CRM or engagement tracking systems.
• Demonstrated high energy and enthusiasm in a fast‑paced environment.
• Visible and engaged contributor.
• Creative thinker who brings new ideas and innovative approaches.
• Proven self‑starter who can work independently and drive engagement.

• Master’s degree.
• Experience planning and executing personalized, creative, and complex events.
• Familiarity with higher education institutional structures and alumni engagement best practices.
• Knowledge of the Rochester community and regional alumni networks.
• Strong analytical skills and comfort using data to inform strategy and programming.

• Full‑time, 40 hours per week.
• Primarily in‑person at the UMR campus with some flexibility for remote work as approved.
• Evening and weekend work required to support events and alumni activities.
• Occasional local and regional travel may be required.

Pay Range: $58,000 - $68,000; depending on education, qualifications, and experience.

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment. Position Type:
Faculty and P&A Staff.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported…