Director of Alumni Engagement - Oregon Health & Science University Foundation

The OHSU Foundation advances the mission of Oregon Health & Science University by inspiring philanthropy that transforms health, education, and scientific discovery. Through the generosity of alumni, donors, volunteers, and community partners, the Foundation helps fuel breakthroughs in research, expand access to exceptional patient care, and prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders.

About this role

As the Director of Alumni Engagement, you'll lead the planning and execution of high-impact alumni programs and events that strengthen connections between alumni, current students, and the university. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Alumni Engagement, you'll collaborate across the Foundation and campus to build engaging experiences, steward alumni leadership initiatives, and help shape the future of alumni engagement strategy. If you thrive in a collaborative environment, enjoy bringing people together through memorable experiences, and are energized by both strategic planning and flawless execution, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

How you will spend your time

• Alumni Events (45%)
  • Lead the planning and execution of signature alumni events in partnership with the Foundation's Special Events team.
  • Oversee marquee programs including Alumni Reunion Weekend, the Cantwell Lecture, School of Medicine Holiday Reception, and alumni webinar series.
  • Deliver exceptional event experiences that deepen alumni affinity and engagement.
• Alumni Leadership & Engagement Initiatives (30%)
  • Partner with the Assistant Vice President to coordinate Alumni Leadership Council programming and board meetings.
  • Support onboarding, engagement, and ongoing stewardship of alumni leaders.
  • Develop strategies to engage School of Nursing alumni across multiple Oregon campuses.
  • Build meaningful opportunities that connect alumni with students, faculty, and one another.
• Strategic Planning & Program Development (25%)
  • Collaborate with leadership on strategic planning, team initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Help measure alumni engagement outcomes through CRM reporting and data visualization.
  • Research and recommend industry best practices to strengthen alumni engagement programs.
  • Contribute to team retreats, goal setting, and long-term planning initiatives.

Requirements

• Seven (7) or more years of experience planning large-scale in-person and virtual events, engagement programs, or community-building initiatives.
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience leading projects from concept through execution while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
• Creative, collaborative mindset with a passion for community building and continuous improvement.
• Ability to remain calm, adaptable, and solutions-focused in fast-paced environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in higher education, preferably within alumni engagement or advancement.
• Experience using Affinaquest or another donor/alumni CRM platform.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule (two days per week in the office)
• Relocation assistance available
• Opportunity to help shape alumni engagement at one of the nation's leading academic health centers
• Collaborative team environment with meaningful mission-driven work

Pay

The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $92,000–$115,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

Schedule

This role includes occasional evening and weekend events, travel throughout the Portland metropolitan area and occasionally beyond, and participation in event setup and breakdown. Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic environment where priorities shift around major events and engagement activities.