Development Assistant, Stewardship & Signature Events

The Tennessee Fund is seeking a highly self-motivated individual to join the Tennessee Fund team for a one-year development assistantship. Bachelor’s degree is required or applicants must obtain a bachelor’s degree or be pursuing a degree with the intention to graduate by July 2026. Master’s degree and experience in collegiate athletics development, stewardship, events or related field preferred. Computer, phone and demonstrated organizational skills necessary. Position involves weekend and after-hours work as needed. This position will gain valuable experience regarding donor stewardship and event execution within a development office. This position is scheduled for a one-year term; it may be extended upon mutual agreement.

Responsibilities:

• This position reports to the Assistant Athletics Director of Development, Stewardship & Signature Events
• Assist in the implementation of creative stewardship initiatives for annual fund and major gift donors.
• Assist in the planning and execution of exclusive events for Shareholders Society members.
• Work collaboratively with a team utilizing communication and creativity to best service donors.
• Help with various special events and game days throughout the year.
• Provide excellent customer service to donors and guests day-to-day in the office, at events, and on gamedays.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Related Duties and Responsibilities:

• Represent the Tennessee Fund in a positive manner through interactions with donors, fans and alumni.
• Incorporate new ideas to acknowledge and show gratitude for Tennessee Fund donors.
• Build relationships with new and loyal Tennessee donors.
• Produce invitations for special events using various creative platforms.
• Work athletic and donor events on occasional weeknights and weekends when needed.
• Experience with ThankView and Adobe Creative Cloud preferred.

Goals of the Assistantship:

• Provide a first-hand experience in a NCAA Division I development office.

• Develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in a full-time position following the assistantship.

The Development Assistant serves approximately 40 hours a week, and some nights and weekends are required. The pay range for this position starts at $31,200. This is a non-exempt hourly position. Overtime pay may be applied, as applicable. This position is scheduled for a one-year term; it may be extended upon mutual agreement.

Previous development assistants with the Tennessee Fund have accepted full-time positions at the University of Tennessee, Clemson, Michigan State, NC State, Northwestern, LSU, Oklahoma and Tulane, among numerous other Division I institutions directly following the development assistantship.

Expected Start Date: August 2026

For questions, please contact:

Megan Henderson

Assistant Athletics Director of Development, Stewardship & Signature Events 

1551 Lake Loudoun Blvd., 1st Floor Brenda Lawson Athletic Building, Knoxville, TN 37996

mhenderson@utk.edu