Description
About Lawrence University
Lawrence University is a nationally ranked liberal arts college and conservatory of music dedicated to academic excellence, student engagement, and a vibrant campus experience. Our community thrives on intellectual curiosity, creative expression, and collaborative learning—values that drive every facet of University Advancement. The Advancement team builds strategic partnerships and philanthropic support that fuel Lawrence’s mission.
Onward Lawrentians Campaign
Inspired by President Carter’s focus on academic excellence, student outcomes, and financial sustainability, the Onward Lawrentians campaign is a bold, forward-looking plan that pushes beyond conventional boundaries while amplifying Lawrence’s commitment to the Liberal Arts. With a $135 million goal, the campaign focuses on four transformational pillars: the Lawrentian Journey, Endowed Scholarships, the Lawrence Fund, and Campus Renewal.
Launched in February 2024, Onward Lawrentians is currently in its leadership phase, engaging our most dedicated supporters, shaping the foundation for a public launch in 2027 and successful completion in 2029. This campaign will redefine the Lawrence experience—enhancing academic innovation, modernizing campus facilities, and preparing every Lawrentian for lives of meaning and achievement.
The Opportunity
The Senior Campaign Director will serve as the strategic architect and driving force behind the Onward Lawrentians campaign. Reporting to the Vice President for University Advancement and serving as a key member of the leadership team, the Director will design, coordinate, and execute a comprehensive campaign plan that inspires generosity and mobilizes the Lawrence community.
This role requires a visionary leader and skilled strategist who thrives on collaboration, planning, and results. The Director will partner closely with the Vice President, campaign consultants, volunteer committees, trustees, faculty, and staff to ensure the campaign’s success—from principal and major gift cultivation to data-driven progress tracking and strategic storytelling.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the implementation of a comprehensive campaign strategy, informed by the Campaign Tactical Plan and best practices in higher education fundraising.
- Define and achieve measurable campaign milestones, including leadership gift commitments, donor pipeline growth, and public launch readiness metrics.
- Apply data analytics and donor intelligence to enhance strategy, refine portfolios, create metrics, and project campaign outcomes. Partner with gift officers to tailor solicitation strategies for principal and major donors across individual, foundation, and corporate sectors.
- Partner with volunteer leaders, trustees, and senior administrators to identify, engage, and solicit high-capacity donors. Serve as the chief administrative officer for the Campaign Steering Committee and Level Up Fundraising Committee.
- Collaborate with Advancement colleagues to align campaign efforts with ongoing annual giving, planned giving, alumni engagement, and stewardship activities.
- Partner with the Director of Special Events to design and execute meaningful cultivation and recognition events.
- Partner with the Executive Director of Donor Engagement to develop compelling campaign proposals.
- Collaborate with colleagues in Marketing and Communications to deliver a creative, integrated campaign communications strategy and deliverables that energize alumni, parents, community members, and friends.
- Partner with the Advancement Services team to understand, evaluate, and ensure that data and information is recorded in the CRM and reported in an accurate and timely manner.
- Regularly brief the President, Board of Trustees, and campus leadership on campaign strategy, progress, and donor engagement opportunities.
- Oversee and track campaign budget to ensure efficient and strategic resource use.
- Engage faculty, students, and staff as campaign ambassadors to broaden awareness and cultivate a culture of philanthropy across campus.
- Stay current on emerging trends, technologies, and innovations in philanthropy to continuously enhance campaign performance.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Why Join Lawrence?
- Opportunity to lead a transformational campaign that will shape Lawrence’s future.
- A collaborative University Advancement team and a vibrant campus community.
- Generous benefits, including:Three weeks of vacation + paid holiday
- Paid sick leave and parental leave
- Tuition assistance for employees and families
- 403(b) with employer match
- Health, dental, vision, and wellness benefits
- Access to fitness center and campus amenities
Apply Today
Be a part of something extraordinary. Please submit your resume and a cover letter via https://lawrence.peopleadmin.com
Requirements
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required.
Demonstrated success in creating, executing and completing capital or comprehensive campaigns within higher education or a comparable nonprofit environment.
Proven track record of securing principal and major gifts.
Exceptional communication skills—written, verbal, and interpersonal—with the ability to inspire confidence and enthusiasm across diverse audiences.
Proven and substantial experience managing and motivating volunteers, board members, and campaign committees.
Strong analytical and strategic planning skills, including proficiency with CRM systems and campaign reporting.
A collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial mindset, and sense of humor.
