← States A - M

← States N - W

← Remote-or-Hybrid

Michigan State University

( Michigan | On-site)

Job Description

Michigan State University Advancement is now hiring! Assistant Director of Development – College of Veterinary Medicine
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
Position Type: Full-Time | Development Officer I
Posting Close Date: May 1, 202

Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine seeks a talented and driven fundraising professional to join our advancement team as Assistant Director of Development. This is a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on one of the nation’s top veterinary programs and contribute to a bold $225 million campaign goal as part of MSU’s $4 billion capital campaign.

As a key member of our development team, you will manage a portfolio of approximately 70 major gift prospects with the capacity to give $50,000 or more. You’ll work collaboratively to align donor interests with college priorities, including a new state-of-the-art veterinary teaching hospital, innovations in cancer prevention and treatment, and support for the next generation of veterinary scientists.

What You’ll Do:

• Engage in monthly 12–15 strategic donor visits, building meaningful relationships with alumni and supporters.
• Make 2–4 major gift solicitations monthly, coordinating efforts with the college and University Advancement.
• Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and college leadership to understand and communicate funding priorities.
• Assist with donor events, proposal development, and stewardship efforts that support annual and campaign goals.
• Travel regularly within Michigan and out of state to cultivate and steward donors.

What We’re Looking For:

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, business, marketing, public relations, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, sales, marketing, volunteer coordination, or higher education.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• A high level of initiative, self-direction, and professionalism.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, fast-paced team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3–5 years of fundraising experience, particularly in higher education or healthcare.
• Knowledge of tax laws related to charitable giving.
• Familiarity with “Moves Management” strategies and donor database systems (like Advance).
• An understanding of the Land Grant University mission and the veterinary profession.

This position reports to the Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations for the College of Veterinary Medicine. The ideal candidate will be excited about the opportunity to advance veterinary medicine and science while developing a successful fundraising career at a Big Ten university.

Why MSU?
At MSU, you’ll join a mission-driven advancement team that values collaboration, innovation, and impact. The College of Veterinary Medicine is a place where world-class research, education, and animal care come together—and your work will help power that mission forward.

Apply by May 1, 2025.
Have questions? Contact Patricia Karam, Director of Talent Acquisition, at karampat@msu.edu.We encourage you to apply if you have the qualifications or transferable skills for this role.

MSU is committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. The University actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.