Veterans Staffing
Major Gifts Officer for Athletics Development
Veterans Staffing, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14850
Major Gifts Officer for Athletics Development
Cornell University welcomes candidates for the position of Major Gifts Officer for Athletics Development in our Alumni Affairs and Development division, based in Ithaca, NY. This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the university's advancement efforts. The Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is a seasoned fundraising professional who plays a pivotal role within the Student & Campus Life and Athletics Alumni Affairs and Development team. This position is ideal for an experienced fundraiser with a proven track record of cultivating and securing major gifts, as they will be managing a robust portfolio of well-connected households alongside a deep pool of high-potential prospects ready for strategic engagement. Reporting to the Director of Development, the MGO builds and nurtures trust-based relationships with alumni, parents, and friends of Cornell Athletics. This results-driven professional thrives in a dynamic and collaborative team culture, working in close partnership with coaches, staff, and university colleagues. Success in this role requires a deep understanding of Cornell's Division I Athletics and Physical Education programs, and the ability to translate that knowledge into compelling philanthropic opportunities. Key Responsibilities
Strategically manage a portfolio of 80-100 major gift prospects, with a focus on securing commitments ranging from $250K to $10M+, in support of Cornell Athletics priorities. Develop and execute tailored fundraising strategies and annual work plans in close collaboration with the Director of Development and university leadership. Conduct 100+ high-impact donor engagements annually, including in-person and virtual meetings, to cultivate, solicit, and steward alumni, parents, and friends. Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture, demonstrating flexibility, accountability, and a commitment to shared success. Collaborate across a dynamic network of coaches, staff, volunteers, and university partners to enhance donor engagement and maximize fundraising outcomes. Maintain accurate and timely records in PeopleSoft, documenting strategies, actions, and donor interactions to support data-driven decision-making. Prepare persuasive proposals, briefings, and stewardship materials, leveraging support staff and resources to ensure high-quality donor communications. Attend athletic events and university functions to engage with donors, deepen relationships, and represent Cornell Athletics in a meaningful and visible way. Stay informed and engaged with Cornell's campaign priorities and the evolving collegiate athletics landscape to inform strategy and donor conversations. About Alumni Affairs and Development
Cornell's Alumni Affairs and Development division, widely regarded as one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, connects alumni, parents and friends with opportunities to advance the university's mission through philanthropy and engagement. As part of our team, you'll help cultivate meaningful relationships while working alongside dedicated professionals who share your commitment to excellence and educational advancement. Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree, with 7 to 10 years of experience in Development, or Alumni Affairs. Knowledge of the principles and practices of fundraising, individual giving and corporate/foundation giving. Proven success in closing 6 and 7-figure new gifts and commitments. Ability to effectively represent the University and the department to both internal and external audiences. Strong organizational skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to staff/manage senior leaders, and an ability to work as part of a team. High level of motivation and integrity. Ability and willingness to travel for business needs. Ability to attend athletic events on nights or weekends. Work Location
This position is eligible for hybrid work arrangement. Employees typically perform this role remotely 1 day per week and on campus 4 days per week. The university reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time. Rewards and Benefits
Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability. Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: Understand Your Benefits | Working at Cornell. Our leave provisions include health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1. To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions we also offer two additional floating holidays. Learn more about our generous leave provisions: Holiday and Accrued Time Off | Working at Cornell Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more about our extensive educational benefits: Education Benefits | Working at Cornell Follow this link to learn more about the Total Rewards of Working at Cornell: Total Rewards | Working at Cornell. Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. University Job Title
Major Gifts Officer IV Job Family
Alumni Affairs Development Level
H Pay Rate Type
Salary Pay Range
$138,776.00 - $169,615.00 Remote Option Availability
Hybrid Company
Endowed Contact Name
Laura Clark EEO Statement
Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law. Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
Cornell University welcomes candidates for the position of Major Gifts Officer for Athletics Development in our Alumni Affairs and Development division, based in Ithaca, NY. This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the university's advancement efforts. The Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is a seasoned fundraising professional who plays a pivotal role within the Student & Campus Life and Athletics Alumni Affairs and Development team. This position is ideal for an experienced fundraiser with a proven track record of cultivating and securing major gifts, as they will be managing a robust portfolio of well-connected households alongside a deep pool of high-potential prospects ready for strategic engagement. Reporting to the Director of Development, the MGO builds and nurtures trust-based relationships with alumni, parents, and friends of Cornell Athletics. This results-driven professional thrives in a dynamic and collaborative team culture, working in close partnership with coaches, staff, and university colleagues. Success in this role requires a deep understanding of Cornell's Division I Athletics and Physical Education programs, and the ability to translate that knowledge into compelling philanthropic opportunities. Key Responsibilities
Strategically manage a portfolio of 80-100 major gift prospects, with a focus on securing commitments ranging from $250K to $10M+, in support of Cornell Athletics priorities. Develop and execute tailored fundraising strategies and annual work plans in close collaboration with the Director of Development and university leadership. Conduct 100+ high-impact donor engagements annually, including in-person and virtual meetings, to cultivate, solicit, and steward alumni, parents, and friends. Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture, demonstrating flexibility, accountability, and a commitment to shared success. Collaborate across a dynamic network of coaches, staff, volunteers, and university partners to enhance donor engagement and maximize fundraising outcomes. Maintain accurate and timely records in PeopleSoft, documenting strategies, actions, and donor interactions to support data-driven decision-making. Prepare persuasive proposals, briefings, and stewardship materials, leveraging support staff and resources to ensure high-quality donor communications. Attend athletic events and university functions to engage with donors, deepen relationships, and represent Cornell Athletics in a meaningful and visible way. Stay informed and engaged with Cornell's campaign priorities and the evolving collegiate athletics landscape to inform strategy and donor conversations. About Alumni Affairs and Development
Cornell's Alumni Affairs and Development division, widely regarded as one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, connects alumni, parents and friends with opportunities to advance the university's mission through philanthropy and engagement. As part of our team, you'll help cultivate meaningful relationships while working alongside dedicated professionals who share your commitment to excellence and educational advancement. Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree, with 7 to 10 years of experience in Development, or Alumni Affairs. Knowledge of the principles and practices of fundraising, individual giving and corporate/foundation giving. Proven success in closing 6 and 7-figure new gifts and commitments. Ability to effectively represent the University and the department to both internal and external audiences. Strong organizational skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to staff/manage senior leaders, and an ability to work as part of a team. High level of motivation and integrity. Ability and willingness to travel for business needs. Ability to attend athletic events on nights or weekends. Work Location
This position is eligible for hybrid work arrangement. Employees typically perform this role remotely 1 day per week and on campus 4 days per week. The university reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time. Rewards and Benefits
Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability. Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: Understand Your Benefits | Working at Cornell. Our leave provisions include health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1. To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions we also offer two additional floating holidays. Learn more about our generous leave provisions: Holiday and Accrued Time Off | Working at Cornell Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more about our extensive educational benefits: Education Benefits | Working at Cornell Follow this link to learn more about the Total Rewards of Working at Cornell: Total Rewards | Working at Cornell. Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. University Job Title
Major Gifts Officer IV Job Family
Alumni Affairs Development Level
H Pay Rate Type
Salary Pay Range
$138,776.00 - $169,615.00 Remote Option Availability
Hybrid Company
Endowed Contact Name
Laura Clark EEO Statement
Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law. Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.