General Statement of Job

Join a university on the rise—where Lion pride runs deep and alumni and donors shape the future. Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) is a dynamic, student-centered institution of about 4,200 students offering more than 140 academic programs, NCAA Division II athletics, and a strong tradition of community engagement. Fueled by record-setting philanthropy and a bold strategic plan, MSSU’s newly expanded statewide mission now encompasses international education, health and life sciences, and immersive learning experiences—positioning the University as a leader in preparing graduates for Missouri’s most critical workforce needs on its welcoming 373-acre campus in Joplin, Missouri.

The Opportunity

The Director of Alumni & Donor Relations leads the strategy and execution of a comprehensive alumni engagement, donor relations, and stewardship program. Reporting to the Vice President for University Advancement, you’ll design experiences that connect graduates and friends of MSSU to the life of the University, inspire philanthropy, and celebrate the impact of giving.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

What You’ll Do

• Craft and implement an alumni engagement plan featuring communications, targeted outreach, and signature events that keep Lions connected for life.
• Partner with the Alumni Board of Directors to identify projects that strengthen alumni involvement and University visibility.
• Oversee donor recognition and alumni events—from intimate presidential dinners and scholarship celebrations to the beloved Holiday Happenings.
• Direct the Lantern Society (cumulative giving society) program and maintain the member recognition display.
• Collaborate with University Marketing & Communications to produce high-impact stewardship materials such as Crossroads and Alumni Mane Events.
• Serve as staff liaison for the Foundation Board’s Community Relations Committee and coordinate with Financial Aid to award Foundation scholarships.
• Supervise staff and student workers, fostering a collaborative, donor-focused culture.

Education, Experience, and Licenses

What We’re Looking For

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree required; two or more years in higher education, alumni relations, or development preferred.
• Skills: Outstanding relationship-builder with excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management is essential.
• Attributes: Creative event planner, collaborative teammate, and steward of donor and alumni relationships who thrives in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.

Why MSSU

• Be part of a mission-driven advancement team during an exciting capital campaign.
• Work on a picturesque campus in a welcoming Midwest city with a low cost of living and vibrant arts and outdoor scenes.
• Enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Ready to Help Lions Roar?
Apply online at https://www.mssu.edu/jobs and share your vision for connecting alumni and donors to Missouri Southern’s bright future.

Missouri Southern State University is an EEO employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or use a computer keyboard and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to __ pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

NOTICE: The above job profile does not include all essential and nonessential duties of this job. All employees with disabilities are encouraged to contact Human Resources to review and discuss the essential and nonessential functions of the job. An employee with a disability can evaluate the job in greater detail to determine if she/he can safely perform the essential function of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.