Vice President of Alumni Relations

About the role

Marshall University is a public comprehensive university with a rich history as one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in West Virginia. Founded in 1837 and named after Chief Justice John Marshall, definer of the Constitution, Marshall University advances the public good through innovative, accredited educational programs. We are located in downtown Huntington, West Virginia, with additional locations in South Charleston and Point Pleasant. Marshall University’s mission, inspired by our Vision and Creed, includes a commitment to: Offer a wide range of high quality, affordable, and accessible undergraduate, graduate, and professional education that prepares students to think, learn, work, and live in an evolving global society; Create opportunities and experiences to foster understanding and appreciation of the rich diversity of thought and culture; Maintain a dynamic intellectual, artistic, and cultural life by promoting and supporting research and creative activities by undergraduates, graduates, and faculty; Contribute to the quality of life of the community, region, and beyond through applied research, economic development, health care, and cultural enrichment; Cultivate the development of an inclusive, just, and equitable community.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Long-Range Planning (25%) – Establish a clear, compelling vision for alumni engagement and annual giving that reflects Marshall’s values, traditions, and aspirations, positioning the department as a strategic driver of institutional success; Develop multi‑year engagement strategies that expand the reach, depth, and diversity of alumni involvement, with measurable goals tied to participation, volunteerism, and philanthropic outcomes; Use data‑driven insights to identify emerging trends, evaluate program effectiveness, and refine strategies that strengthen alumni affinity and institutional loyalty; Cultivate a vibrant, engaged alumni community that celebrates Marshall’s history, amplifies alumni achievements, and reinforces the University’s role as a lifelong home; Strengthen signature traditions, such as Homecoming, Fountain Ceremony, Alumni Awards Banquet, chapter events, regional gatherings, and milestone reunions, to deepen emotional connection and reinforce the Marshall experience; Elevate the visibility of alumni impact through storytelling, recognition programs, and strategic communications that inspire pride and engagement.
• Board Leadership and Governance (25%) – Serve as the primary Foundation liaison to the Marshall University Alumni Association Board of Directors, ensuring the Board is well‑supported, well‑informed, and positioned to fulfill its governance responsibilities; Provide strategic guidance to the Board President and Executive Committee, including agenda planning, meeting preparation, and alignment with University and Foundation priorities; Ensure all Board activities, decisions, and communications adhere to established bylaws, policies, and best practices in nonprofit governance; Facilitate Board development by identifying training needs, onboarding new directors, and cultivating a pipeline of future volunteer leaders.
• Partnership and Collaboration (15%) – Serve as a strategic advisor to University and Foundation leadership on matters related to alumni engagement, volunteer leadership, and constituent relations; Build strong partnerships with campus units, including Athletics, Admissions, Career Education, Student Affairs, and academic colleges, to integrate alumni into the life of the University and support institutional goals; Ensure the department operates with clarity, accountability, and alignment, modeling collaborative leadership and a service‑oriented approach.
• Leadership & Talent Development (15%) – Lead, mentor, and evaluate professional staff responsible for alumni engagement and annual giving, volunteer management, communications, and chapter support, ensuring the team operates with shared purpose; Recruit, develop, and retain high‑caliber talent, fostering a culture that values creativity, data‑informed decision‑making, and exceptional service to alumni and campus partners; Provide coaching and professional development opportunities that strengthen staff capabilities and prepare team members for expanded responsibilities and future leadership roles.
• Budget & Resource Stewardship (15%) – Oversee the Alumni Relations budget, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources, alignment with strategic priorities, and adherence to Foundation financial policies; Develop annual budget proposals and long‑range financial plans that support departmental growth, program expansion, and strategic initiatives; Monitor expenditures, assess resource needs, and make data‑driven adjustments in collaboration with the President & CEO to maximize impact and operational efficiency.
• Other Duties as assigned by the President & CEO (5%)