Associate Director of Athletic Engagement

Ball State University

Muncie, IN

ID: 7309812 (Ref.No. BSU48329)
Posted: Newly posted
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Responsible for developing and implementing engagement strategies for the Cardinal Varsity Club, athletics and alumni groups that increase connections and, ultimately, giving to the University. Leads engagement efforts for volunteer groups that align with University and BSU Foundation strategic goals. This position works closely with the Ball State ticket office, Athletics Communications and Foundation colleagues in annual giving, donor relations and digital communications.

Join Our Team: Associate Director of Athletic Engagement

Are you ready to be part of an energetic and unified team dedicated to transforming higher education? Our foundation is breaking down barriers between advancement, alumni relations, and stewardship to create a cohesive environment where philanthropy and innovative partnerships thrive. This is your chance to make a significant impact as we fulfill Our Call to Beneficence: The Campaign for Ball State University, aimed at elevating student support both financially and academically.

Why Join Us?

Dynamic Team Environment: Collaborate with passionate professionals who are committed to our mission.
Cutting-Edge Initiatives: Be at the forefront of redefining philanthropy in education.
Unified Structure: Work within a seamless organization with no barriers between key departments.
Supportive Culture: A high-achieving work environment that values camaraderie and collaboration.
Impactful Work: A mission that changes lives through education and philanthropy.

This role is primarily on-site to support close team collaboration and hands-on engagement with occasional opportunities for remote work.

Job Function:

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

Preferred Education:

Master's degree.

Minimum Experience:

Two years of alumni relations, athletic engagement, events, marketing or related experience.

Preferred Experience:

Five or more years experience working in alumni relations, volunteer recruitment and management. Working knowledge of Blackbaud NXT or other CRM.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsible for the overall marketing, execution and donor communication related to Cardinal Varsity Club benefits, particularly at the annual giving level. Work closely with the ticket office and annual giving to cross-promote priorities and align strategy in outgoing communications to season ticket holders and athletic donors. Partner with Athletics Communications on the CVC website to ensure all fundraising and engagement content is accurate.
Partner with the senior director of athletic engagement in the planning and execution of signature athletic events and initiatives. Serve as point of contact for all reunion activity, ensuring that partners are adhering to the reunions framework.
Work with Foundation colleagues in annual giving to follow reunions and applicable events with digital appeals. Monitor athletics and campus partner crowdfunding efforts to ensure they align with reunion plans as applicable.
Organize annual virtual event to connect letter-winners, current student-athletes, coaches and supporters on One Ball State Day. Invite special guests, speakers and coordinate all related activities with Athletics Communications and Foundation digital communications.
Responsible for partnering with Athletics on the selection of student-athlete features for print, social media and digital pieces as related to fundraising, reunions, mentoring and engagement events.
Lead strategies and logistics for Charlie Town, including location, presence, special guests, lead generation and more. Coordinate event support among the Engagement and Strategy team.
Serve as staff liaison to volunteer groups as assigned. Ensure activities are in line with University and Foundation strategic initiatives. Partner with volunteer groups to plan and execute reunion and event activities.
Engage volunteer leaders, letter-winners and alumni of spirit groups and Pride of Mid-America; seek opportunities for them to volunteer with the University. Maintain and steward a portfolio of assigned prospects.
Research and implement best practices in higher education engagement as befits the position responsibilities. Maintain contact with MAC schools and aspirational institutions to discuss best practices. Understand any applicable rules related to athletic benefits.
Perform other related duties as assigned. Represent the Foundation at select events.

At Ball State University, we recognize inclusive excellence as an integral endeavor to fulfill our University’s mission and our strategic plan. We recruit, support, and retain a diverse population of students, faculty, and staff. We encourage and reward diversity of thought. We promote a work environment that encourages and rewards innovation and creativity. We pledge to keep Inclusive Excellence at the highest level of institutional importance and as a foundation in all that we strive to do. Our over-arching goal for Inclusive Excellence is to adopt a university-wide Inclusive Excellence approach to academic, administrative support, and service functions of the university. We believe Inclusive Excellence must be infused in every step we take.

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