Senior Director Alumni Relations
American UniversityAbout the role
American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University
Department:
Time Type:
Full time
Job Type:
FLSA Status:
ExemptWork Modality:
Union:
Job Description:
Summary:
The SDAR provides strategic leadership and oversight for AUWCL’s comprehensive alumni engagement program, serving more than 22,000 J.D. and LL.M. alumni. The SDAR is responsible for developing and executing strategies that increase meaningful alumni engagement across volunteerism, experiential opportunities, philanthropic participation, and communications.
The SDAR plans, directs, and coordinates all alumni engagement activities for AUWCL, including the law school’s Alumni Association, regional chapters, local networks, alumni volunteer programs, and signature events. The SDAR directly supervises one staff member and leads the recruitment, training, and management of alumni volunteers. The role is expected to meet or exceed annual and long-term alumni relations goals while strengthening alumni connection, loyalty, and support of the institution.
Essential Functions:
1.) Strategic Leadership and Alumni Engagement
Developing and implementing forward-thinking, data-informed strategies to engage more than 22,000 alumni.
Establishing SMART goals and evaluating outcomes to improve engagement, participation, and satisfaction.
Expanding outreach through communications, events, and digital platforms.
Increasing the number and diversity of actively engaged alumni aligned with institutional priorities.
2.) Volunteer and Chapter Management, Data Strategy
Managing and growing regional chapters, affinity groups, and alumni networks, with intentional expansion into geographic and professional communities.
Supervising and supporting alumni volunteers, including recruitment, onboarding, recognition, and ongoing engagement of volunteer leaders and advocates.
Providing strategic direction to the AUWCL Alumni Association to strengthen volunteer leadership and philanthropic support.
Ensuring appropriate allocation and stewardship of budgets to support alumni-led activities and initiatives.
Analyzing alumni data (demographics, geography, interests, professions) to inform strategy and identify engagement opportunities.
Conducting surveys and feedback initiatives to align programming with alumni interests and needs.
Supporting alumni-driven engagement opportunities nationwide, leverage the WCLs alumni association to grow the base of active and engaged volunteers as advocates and philanthropic supporters of the school.
3.) Staff Supervision and Event Strategy Execution
Directly supervising one staff member, including goal setting, performance management, professional development, and daily oversight.
Providing leadership in planning and execution of alumni chapter events, including signature programs (e.g., Reunion, Meyers and Moore Society dinner), and regional events.
Overseeing all logistical planning, including venue selection, catering, A/V, program development, vendor coordination, and event production elements.
Ensuring exceptional event execution through proactive planning, problem-solving, and on-site leadership.
Maintaining a consistent and high-quality a
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