The Kansas State University Foundation (KSU Foundation) is partnering with Wittkieffer in seeking applications and nominations for the position of Senior Director of Development. This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic, relationship-driven fundraising professional to advance philanthropy for Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and drive meaningful impact on animal and human health, public safety, and research innovation.
Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Development, the Senior Director of Development will lead major gift fundraising efforts for CVM, working closely with university leadership, KSU Foundation, and external partners to engage donors and secure transformational support. This role manages a portfolio of 75 major gift prospects, focusing on gifts of $50,000+ and developing solicitation strategies. Additionally, the position includes supervisory responsibilities, overseeing a team of development professionals, mentoring staff, and guiding major gift cultivation
Kansas State University (K-State) is a Tier 1 research institution known for excellence in education, research, and public service. With over 20,000 students, 1,300 faculty, and a $900 million annual budget, K-State is a leader in innovation and student success. The KSU Foundation raised over $192.7 million in private gifts and commitments in FY 2024 and is pursuing an ambitious $2 billion fundraising goal by 2030.
Founded in 1905, the College of Veterinary Medicine is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and is a leader in veterinary education, research, and service. CVM addresses global challenges in public health, food safety, biosecurity, and animal welfare through innovative research, hands-on education, and community outreach. The College plays a critical role in protecting public health by leading research on infectious and zoonotic diseases, ensuring food safety through advancements in microbiological research, and strengthening animal welfare through cutting-edge veterinary medicine and livestock health programs. Through its Shelter Medicine Community Outreach Program, CVM extends its impact beyond campus by providing veterinary care to underserved communities while giving students hands-on clinical training. The CVM’s fundraising team consistently raises nearly $20 million annually, addressing global challenges in public health, biosecurity, food safety, and animal welfare.
The ideal candidate will have at least seven years of metrics-driven fundraising experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit development, with a focus on managing donor portfolios and closing gifts. They should demonstrate collaboration, vision, energy, and strategic thinking. This unique opportunity allows for meaningful impact in advancing one of the nation’s leading veterinary schools through philanthropy, while joining a dynamic team dedicated to elevating veterinary education and research at K-State. The anticipated starting salary range is $120,000 – $130,000, commensurate with experience. Please direct all applications, inquiries, and nominations to the WittKieffer search team: Joe Kennedy, Ashley Buderus and Roxana Woudstra via the WittKieffer’s candidate portal using the buttons below or email, at: [email protected].