University of Minnesota
Donor Engagement Specialist, UMN Extension
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55400
Donor Engagement Specialist, UMN Extension
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About the Position University of Minnesota Extension seeks a Donor Engagement Specialist to strengthen philanthropic support for its statewide mission. This role identifies, cultivates, and engages donors who invest in Extension’s work across Minnesota, with a focus on individuals and families who consistently give $5,000–$25,000.
As a strategic relationship-builder, you will collaborate with Extension educators and leaders to translate program outcomes into compelling giving opportunities. You’ll engage donors through events, video and phone conversations, strategic communications, and selective one‑on‑one meetings, guiding them through a giving cycle that deepens their engagement.
This position reports to the Director of Development and is part of a collaborative advancement team that includes major gifts, annual giving, stewardship, and communications professionals. Together, the team secures more than $5 M annually in support of Extension’s mission.
Responsibilities
Develop a strong understanding of Extension's programs, priorities, and giving opportunities.
Meet annual performance expectations, including targets for donor acquisition, retention, and pipeline development.
Manage 30–60 prospects, including individuals, families, donor‑advised funds, family foundations, companies, and organizations in partnership with the University of Minnesota Foundation (UMF).
Engage donors through events, video/phone conversations, strategic communications, and selective one‑on‑one meetings.
Guide donors through the giving cycle and assess their capacity and readiness, determining who should advance to leadership‑level strategies or receive focused $5k–$25k engagement.
Cultivate relationships, present giving opportunities aligned with Extension's priorities, and secure gift commitments.
Assess and qualify prospects, develop tailored engagement and solicitation strategies, and advance prospects through the giving cycle.
Collaborate with Extension educators to prepare and deliver gift proposals that align donor interests with Extension's impact and initiatives.
Partner with UMF colleagues on prospect research, gift processing, and donor stewardship.
Build fundraising cases for specific Extension programs by identifying compelling stories, impact data, and messaging that demonstrate how gifts create meaningful outcomes.
Guide smaller‑scale giving opportunities that introduce donors to Extension’s impact and demonstrate future larger gifts.
Manage ongoing relationships with corporate and foundation donors post‑gift, determining engagement levels and serving as liaison to Extension’s and UMF’s pre‑ and post‑award grant teams.
Develop strategies to identify Extension’s strongest friends and potential donors across communities statewide.
Respond to inquiries about planned giving, estate gifts, and memorial contributions.
Provide guidance to educators, staff, and volunteers on effective donor engagement strategies.
Maintain detailed records of all donor interactions in the Donor Management System (DMS).
Represent Extension at statewide events such as the Minnesota State Fair, donor gatherings, advisory board meetings, retiree social events, and Farm Fest.
Identify prospective candidates for Extension’s advisory boards and committees.
Participate in special projects, including campaign initiatives, event planning, and process improvements.
Work Location
This position is campus‑based at the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus and requires regular on‑campus presence for collaboration and planning.
Work arrangements
Preferred: Full‑time on‑campus, or some flexibility with 3–4 days per week on campus. Final arrangements will be determined during the offer process based on candidate location, experience, and team needs.
Qualifications Required qualifications
Bachelor's degree.
Two years of progressive experience in fundraising, donor relations, advancement, or relationship‑driven roles involving cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Project management experience.
Strong communication skills, including engaged listening, persuasive writing, and clear presentations.
Demonstrated success managing multiple concurrent relationships, competing priorities, and complex schedules.
Creative and entrepreneurial approach with strategic awareness, sound judgment, and genuine connection to mission‑driven, community‑centered work.
Proficiency with customer relationship management platforms (Salesforce, Raiser's Edge, or similar donor/customer database systems).
Experience with Microsoft and Google suite applications.
Willingness and ability to drive throughout Minnesota (50–300 miles per week). Valid driver’s license with applicable insurance.
Ability to work in various indoor and outdoor temperatures and environments.
Additional requirements
Regular travel throughout Minnesota is essential. A valid driver’s license, personal vehicle, and required liability insurance are necessary. All work‑related travel expenses are reimbursed per University policy. Typical travel includes:
Day trips 1–3 times per week throughout Minnesota
Overnight travel 5–10 times annually (1–2 nights)
Occasional weekend events (2–4 annually), with weekday flexibility provided
Significant presence at the Minnesota State Fair and other 4‑H showcase events throughout the year.
Must be able to work regularly at a dedicated/assigned Extension office and have reliable internet if working outside the office.
When not in the assigned office location, must be reachable with a phone number that will be published in the Extension staff directory.
This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.
Preferred qualifications
Prior solicitation experience — personally asking donors for gifts through meetings, calls, or personalized correspondence, not mass appeals.
Experience supporting capital campaigns or multi‑year fundraising initiatives.
Knowledge of gift processing workflows, compliance and privacy requirements, and advancement services best practices.
Experience engaging and supporting volunteers in fundraising or outreach.
Ability to engage and inspire volunteers in fundraising and outreach activities.
Knowledge of planned giving and other advanced giving vehicles.
Cultural competency and experience engaging effectively with diverse communities.
Proven success working in hybrid or remote environments while maintaining high performance standards and cultivating strong professional relationships.
Experience creating or delivering professional development and training.
Knowledge of Extension’s mission and Minnesota 4‑H programs.
About the Department University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Extension strives to attract and retain high‑quality, passionate employees, weaving diversity, equity and inclusion into all aspects of programming and employee engagement.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $58,000–$75,000 depending on education/qualifications/experience. 100% appointment, P&A Staff.
Benefits include:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight counseling sessions at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How to Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click
Apply
and follow the instructions.
Required Attachments
Cover letter that speaks to your experience related to donor engagement and fundraising
Resume/Vitae
Contact information for three professional references and college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) will be required during the interview process.
Additional documents may be attached after the application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.
Diversity & Inclusion The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
We provide equal access to and opportunity in our programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity, visit
diversity.umn.edu .
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the University The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located within a vibrant, diverse metropolitan community, the UMTC partners with health centers, corporations, government agencies, and many non‑profits to serve the public.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
About the Position University of Minnesota Extension seeks a Donor Engagement Specialist to strengthen philanthropic support for its statewide mission. This role identifies, cultivates, and engages donors who invest in Extension’s work across Minnesota, with a focus on individuals and families who consistently give $5,000–$25,000.
As a strategic relationship-builder, you will collaborate with Extension educators and leaders to translate program outcomes into compelling giving opportunities. You’ll engage donors through events, video and phone conversations, strategic communications, and selective one‑on‑one meetings, guiding them through a giving cycle that deepens their engagement.
This position reports to the Director of Development and is part of a collaborative advancement team that includes major gifts, annual giving, stewardship, and communications professionals. Together, the team secures more than $5 M annually in support of Extension’s mission.
Responsibilities
Develop a strong understanding of Extension's programs, priorities, and giving opportunities.
Meet annual performance expectations, including targets for donor acquisition, retention, and pipeline development.
Manage 30–60 prospects, including individuals, families, donor‑advised funds, family foundations, companies, and organizations in partnership with the University of Minnesota Foundation (UMF).
Engage donors through events, video/phone conversations, strategic communications, and selective one‑on‑one meetings.
Guide donors through the giving cycle and assess their capacity and readiness, determining who should advance to leadership‑level strategies or receive focused $5k–$25k engagement.
Cultivate relationships, present giving opportunities aligned with Extension's priorities, and secure gift commitments.
Assess and qualify prospects, develop tailored engagement and solicitation strategies, and advance prospects through the giving cycle.
Collaborate with Extension educators to prepare and deliver gift proposals that align donor interests with Extension's impact and initiatives.
Partner with UMF colleagues on prospect research, gift processing, and donor stewardship.
Build fundraising cases for specific Extension programs by identifying compelling stories, impact data, and messaging that demonstrate how gifts create meaningful outcomes.
Guide smaller‑scale giving opportunities that introduce donors to Extension’s impact and demonstrate future larger gifts.
Manage ongoing relationships with corporate and foundation donors post‑gift, determining engagement levels and serving as liaison to Extension’s and UMF’s pre‑ and post‑award grant teams.
Develop strategies to identify Extension’s strongest friends and potential donors across communities statewide.
Respond to inquiries about planned giving, estate gifts, and memorial contributions.
Provide guidance to educators, staff, and volunteers on effective donor engagement strategies.
Maintain detailed records of all donor interactions in the Donor Management System (DMS).
Represent Extension at statewide events such as the Minnesota State Fair, donor gatherings, advisory board meetings, retiree social events, and Farm Fest.
Identify prospective candidates for Extension’s advisory boards and committees.
Participate in special projects, including campaign initiatives, event planning, and process improvements.
Work Location
This position is campus‑based at the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus and requires regular on‑campus presence for collaboration and planning.
Work arrangements
Preferred: Full‑time on‑campus, or some flexibility with 3–4 days per week on campus. Final arrangements will be determined during the offer process based on candidate location, experience, and team needs.
Qualifications Required qualifications
Bachelor's degree.
Two years of progressive experience in fundraising, donor relations, advancement, or relationship‑driven roles involving cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Project management experience.
Strong communication skills, including engaged listening, persuasive writing, and clear presentations.
Demonstrated success managing multiple concurrent relationships, competing priorities, and complex schedules.
Creative and entrepreneurial approach with strategic awareness, sound judgment, and genuine connection to mission‑driven, community‑centered work.
Proficiency with customer relationship management platforms (Salesforce, Raiser's Edge, or similar donor/customer database systems).
Experience with Microsoft and Google suite applications.
Willingness and ability to drive throughout Minnesota (50–300 miles per week). Valid driver’s license with applicable insurance.
Ability to work in various indoor and outdoor temperatures and environments.
Additional requirements
Regular travel throughout Minnesota is essential. A valid driver’s license, personal vehicle, and required liability insurance are necessary. All work‑related travel expenses are reimbursed per University policy. Typical travel includes:
Day trips 1–3 times per week throughout Minnesota
Overnight travel 5–10 times annually (1–2 nights)
Occasional weekend events (2–4 annually), with weekday flexibility provided
Significant presence at the Minnesota State Fair and other 4‑H showcase events throughout the year.
Must be able to work regularly at a dedicated/assigned Extension office and have reliable internet if working outside the office.
When not in the assigned office location, must be reachable with a phone number that will be published in the Extension staff directory.
This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.
Preferred qualifications
Prior solicitation experience — personally asking donors for gifts through meetings, calls, or personalized correspondence, not mass appeals.
Experience supporting capital campaigns or multi‑year fundraising initiatives.
Knowledge of gift processing workflows, compliance and privacy requirements, and advancement services best practices.
Experience engaging and supporting volunteers in fundraising or outreach.
Ability to engage and inspire volunteers in fundraising and outreach activities.
Knowledge of planned giving and other advanced giving vehicles.
Cultural competency and experience engaging effectively with diverse communities.
Proven success working in hybrid or remote environments while maintaining high performance standards and cultivating strong professional relationships.
Experience creating or delivering professional development and training.
Knowledge of Extension’s mission and Minnesota 4‑H programs.
About the Department University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Extension strives to attract and retain high‑quality, passionate employees, weaving diversity, equity and inclusion into all aspects of programming and employee engagement.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $58,000–$75,000 depending on education/qualifications/experience. 100% appointment, P&A Staff.
Benefits include:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight counseling sessions at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How to Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click
Apply
and follow the instructions.
Required Attachments
Cover letter that speaks to your experience related to donor engagement and fundraising
Resume/Vitae
Contact information for three professional references and college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) will be required during the interview process.
Additional documents may be attached after the application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.
Diversity & Inclusion The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
We provide equal access to and opportunity in our programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity, visit
diversity.umn.edu .
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the University The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located within a vibrant, diverse metropolitan community, the UMTC partners with health centers, corporations, government agencies, and many non‑profits to serve the public.
#J-18808-Ljbffr