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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants. POSITION SPECIFICSPenn State is currently seeking a Assistant Director of Gift Acceptance in supporting the Office of Gift Acceptance. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State's future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.
Reporting to the Director of Gift Acceptance and working closely with partners throughout the university, this Assistant Director of Gift Acceptance will:
- Serve as the primary drafter of new and revised Guideline Agreements and Statements of Donor Intent, which establish the terms governing donor-restricted funds and document intentions for future gifts;
- Collaborate with DDAR staff across all Units to obtain and evaluate information necessary to accurately document donor commitments, identify and resolve issues with proposed donor terms, and ensure compliance with University policies and applicable legal requirements;
- Work closely with the Director of Gift Acceptance on complex or non-routine gift documentation, including matters involving donor intent, University policies, and applicable legal requirements;
- Coordinate and communicate with the Office of Student Aid, Endowment Accounting, Donor Relations, and other University partners to ensure that documentation is complete and meets all applicable University requirements;
- Serve as a resource to DDAR staff regarding gift documentation, donor restrictions, funding requirements, and the administration of donor-restricted funds;
- Collaborate with the Gift Acceptance team to ensure the appropriate documentation and recording of future pledges and other planned gifts;
- Coordinate the execution process of all final gift documentation to maintain accurate records and request fund creation of new endowments and non-endowed funds;
- Develop and maintain procedures, templates, training materials, and other resources to promote consistency, accuracy, and efficiency in the preparation and administration of gift documentation; and
- Articulate Penn State's needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications.
The successful candidate will have:
- Paralegal, Legal Assistant or similar with experience in drafting or reviewing gift documentation or legal contracts and agreements;
- Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills;
- The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues;
- Familiarity with planned gifts, life income gifts, and estate/trust administration;
- Knowledge of federal and state charitable giving and estate laws;
- The ability to communicate complex gift and financial details to a variety of audiences including internal and external constituents;
- The capacity to meet tight deadlines and to handle multiple projects simultaneously;
- A demonstrated ability to interact effectively and efficiently with donors, development officers, and members of the legal & advisory communities;
- A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team;
- A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored.
DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Gift Planning Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Gift Planning Specialist - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
This position is based at the University Park campus, located in State College, Pennsylvania. State College is ranked among the lowest-stress and safest small cities in the country, with excellent public schools, beautiful parks and other natural assets, and a broad range of cultural and athletic events and venues: statecollegepa.us and statecollege.com
SALARY & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $65,508.00 - $122,016.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
