Associate Director of Constituent Programs at Western New England University in Springfield, MA

Job description

PURPOSE OF THIS POSITION: The Associate Director of Constituent Programs leads the planning, execution, and evaluation of engagement programs designed to foster connections between students, alumni, parents, employees and friends and Western New England University. This position is responsible for the successful management of volunteer groups including the Student Alumni Association, the Parents Council, and various alumni groups. It also manages events, including Golden Bear Weekend, reunion celebrations, the Annual Alumni Awards, the Alumni Golf Tournament, regional engagement events, alumni volunteer programs, and alumni board initiatives. Working collaboratively with Advancement colleagues and campus partners, the Associate Director develops and implements strategies that strengthen relationships, increase constituent engagement and participation, and support the University's mission and goals. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Reporting to the Director of Strategic Engagement, the Associate Director of Constituent Programs serves as the primary manager of the University's engagement programs and experiences, creating meaningful opportunities for students, alumni, parents and friends to connect with one another and with Western New England University. Through the strategic planning and execution of signature events, volunteer initiatives, volunteer leadership activities, regional programming, and reunion efforts, the Associate Director fosters lifelong relationships that strengthen affinity and participation. This role collaborates closely with Advancement colleagues, campus partners, and volunteers to identify engagement opportunities, cultivate involvement, and deliver programs that reflect the diverse interests and experiences of the University's volunteer communities. By leveraging relationship-building, volunteer management, technology, and engagement best practices, the Associate Director helps advance institutional priorities and supports a culture of connection, engagement, and philanthropy. ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Program Development Spearhead the growth of the Parent’s Council through communications and events. Launch a Student Alumni Association in order to foster closer connections between current students and alumni. Execute with the support of the Director in delivering a robust calendar of events, including engagement, cultivation, stewardship and recognition events, to drive engagement among alumni, students, and other constituents, and to support the strategic priorities of the Advancement Division and the University. Work collaboratively with Advancement and University Marketing to create engaging, thoughtful communications - both print and digital - to support events and initiatives. Serve as the primary manager for the annual Alumni Awards and Law Alumni Awards processes, including event marketing and logistics, sponsor recruitment, managing honoree selection and their experiences, registration, etc. Serve as primary manager for signature events such as Golden Bear Weekend, the Alumni Golf Tournament, Golden Graduates reunion, and more. Spearhead sponsorship solicitation, participant recruitment, and event logistics for Alumni Association signature programs including Golden Bear Weekend and Alumni Golf Tournament. Plan, direct, and execute programs and initiatives (e.g., career networking/development opportunities for current students and alumni, Golden Bear Weekend, regional/national alumni events, reunion programs) that help the University meet key alumni engagement goals. Manage the development of regional, affinity, and school/college programs and events to drive engagement of alumni in key geographical areas and targeted constituencies such as professional programs, academic- or industry-based affinities, athletics, non-athletic student activities, and more. Spearhead efforts to expand digital alumni engagement opportunities, including current and future technologies to support a variety of online en