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University Development Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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University Development information

See Kentucky salary details

$28.7K

$67.3K

$115.5K

How much do university development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for university development in Kentucky is $67,257.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $78,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a university development professional typically collaborate with academic departments and faculty?

University Development professionals work closely with academic departments and faculty to identify funding needs, develop compelling proposals, and align fundraising efforts with institutional priorities. They often facilitate meetings, gather information about research or program initiatives, and help translate academic goals into donor-friendly language. Strong communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as these professionals act as liaisons between faculty and potential donors, ensuring that fundraising strategies support the university's academic mission.

What is university development?

University Development refers to the efforts and activities focused on fundraising, alumni relations, and securing financial support for a university. This department works to build relationships with donors, alumni, corporations, and foundations to support scholarships, research, capital projects, and other university priorities. University Development professionals organize campaigns, events, and outreach initiatives to engage supporters and promote the institution's mission. Their work is essential for ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of the university.

What is the difference between University Development vs University Fundraising Coordinator?

AspectUniversity DevelopmentUniversity Fundraising Coordinator
Primary FocusStrategic planning, alumni relations, major gift cultivationEvent planning, donor outreach, campaign support
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in fundraising or developmentBachelor's degree, experience in fundraising or donor relations
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, university campuses, eventsOffice-based, campus events, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, higher education institutionsUniversities, higher education institutions

University Development involves strategic planning and relationship management to secure major gifts and build long-term support, while University Fundraising Coordinators focus on executing fundraising campaigns, organizing events, and engaging donors. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but University Development has a broader strategic scope compared to the more operational focus of Fundraising Coordinators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in university development, and why are they important?

To thrive in University Development, you need strong fundraising expertise, relationship-building skills, and a background in higher education or nonprofit management, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with donor management databases (such as Raiser's Edge), CRM systems, and fundraising analytics tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, networking abilities, and strategic thinking help professionals engage donors and collaborate with internal stakeholders. These skills are crucial for securing philanthropic support, building long-term partnerships, and advancing the university’s mission.
What are popular job titles related to University Development jobs in Kentucky? For University Development jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching University Development jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for University Development jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for University Development jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most University Development job openings:
University Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Development job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,257 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Associate Director of Development

Thomas More University

KY

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Basic Purpose

The Associate Director of Development manages and implements strategies to ensure proper identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of major gift prospects. The Associate Director of Development manages all strategies related to securing philanthropic support from grants. 

Core Values

The successful candidate will be a visionary and collaborative leader who serves as a public ambassador for the advancement of the mission of the University and consistently demonstrates the Thomas More University core values of Hospitality, Humility, Service, and Stewardship.

Core Competencies

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills and the ability to prepare proposals, reports and correspondence.

Strong organizational, supervisory, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.

Ability to utilize various software and databases connected to university fundraising operations.

Understanding of NCAA compliance as it relates to donor/boosters engagement and responsibilities.

Responsibilities:

Develop and implement strategies to ensure proper identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of major gift prospects capable of making gifts greater than $25,000.Coordinate with faculty, staff, and administrators to organize applications for grants from foundations, federal agencies, and other entities in collaboration with external consulting partners. Assist in the leadership of Thomas More University’s planned giving program, developing and implementing systems and processes for increasing participation in planned giving, securing estate gifts, and enrolling donors in the Monsignor Murphy Legacy Society. Advise the AVP for Institutional Advancement on a regular basis regarding Major Gift program activities, effectiveness and results.Manage the involvement of the President, senior leadership, trustees, and committee members in donor cultivation.Oversee the acknowledgment and recognition for gifts at various levels and implement programs to ensure fundraising goals are achieved at each giving level. Engage regularly with faculty and Deans to ensure a working knowledge of content expertise, areas of research, and academic fundraising priorities/goals. Manage a portfolio of approximately 30-50 major gift prospects and document contacts and solicitation plans.Average 15 face to face meetings per month with current donors, potential new donors and community leaders.Work with the Annual Giving and Advancement Services team to integrate and improve strategic prospect management systems. Prepare written and oral presentations and proposals as needed.Travel as necessary to cultivate and solicit principle and major gifts.Generally support the University’s development program, including, but not limited to attendance at and help with fundraising, recognition, and alumni events.Assist staff as needed with additional development initiatives and undertake special projects and assignments as directed.Perform other duties as assigned or requested.


Education, Specialized and/or Technical Knowledge Requirements 

A bachelor’s degree required

Minimum of five years demonstrated successful fundraising experience including personal gift solicitation is required. Transferable experience may be considered. 

Experience with committee and volunteer management as well as prospect research is required. 

Physical Job Requirements

Tools and Equipment Used

Personal computer, copier, fax/scanner, phone, and other typical office equipment

Travel

Often – more than 30% of the time (primarily in the Greater-Cincinnati region) 

Physical & Mental Demands

Frequently required to sit at a desk/workstation for long period of timeAbility to work at a computer terminal for extended periods of timeDigital dexterity and hand/eye coordination in operation of office equipmentLight to moderate lifting and carrying of supplies, setting up tables and chairs, etc.Ability to speak to and hear employees/clients via phone or in personBody motor skills sufficient to enable incumbent to move around the office environmentAbility to analyze data and other reports and make recommendations
Mental requirements include: compare, decide, direct, problem solve, analyze, instruct, interpret

 


Compensation details: 75000-85000 Yearly Salary


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