POSITION SUMMARY

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology invites applications for a seasoned and mission-driven Philanthropy Officer to play a critical leadership role in advancing the University’s fundraising efforts. The Philanthropy Officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major donors, with a focus on securing contributions of $25,000 and above to support scholarships, research, capital projects, and other institutional priorities.

This is a frontline fundraising position that manages a dynamic portfolio of current and prospective donors, with the goal of building deep, long-term relationships that result in transformational giving and sustained philanthropic engagement. The Philanthropy Officer also collaborates with university leadership, board members, faculty, and other stakeholders to align donor interests with institutional goals and will help mentor junior gift officers as the team grows.

This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned advancement professional to shape the future of a fast-growing, STEM-focused institution committed to student success and community impact.

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ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gift prospects to secure philanthropic support of $25,000 and above.
Manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects by developing and implementing individualized engagement, solicitation and stewardship strategies.
Monitor and report on donor interactions, solicitation pipeline and fundraising progress using the donor management system to ensure fundraising goals met.
Build and sustain long-term relationships with donors to maximize engagement loyalty and giving potential.
Prepare donor-facing materials, including executive summaries, briefs and proposals tailored to donor interest and organizational priorities.
Collaborate with faculty, staff, board members and senior leadership to leverage relationships and advance fundraising objectives, as well as mentor and support junior gift officers.
Ensure all fundraising activities comply with ethical fundraising standards and organizational policies.

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REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

Strong understanding of fundraising principles, strategies and best practices.
Excellent writing, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
Demonstrated alignment with and commitment to HU’s cultural values and expectations.
Willingness and ability to travel and work occasional evenings/weekends as required

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EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Minimum of six years of progressive experience in fundraising, preferably in a higher education or nonprofit fund-raising environment
Proven track record of personally closing major gifts at the $25,000+ level
Strong knowledge of major gift fundraising strategies, donor engagement practices, and philanthropic trends

WHY JOIN HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY?

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is redefining higher education through a student-centered, STEM-focused approach rooted in innovation, affordability, and real-world hands-on experience. With Strong employer partnerships and nationally recognized programs, HU is a dynamic place to grow your career – and your impact.

As a member of the University’s growing Office of Philanthropy & Alumni Relations, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking team working to expand opportunity, build community, and transform lives through education.

Harrisburg University

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Philanthropy Officer