Development Fellow, Donor Engagement, Department of Athletics

As a Development Fellow for Donor Engagement at Wake Forest University, your primary responsibilities will include planning and executing donor-related events such as alumni gatherings and pregame celebrations. You'll also be tasked with maintaining communication through weekly event updates to the development team, coordinating guest registrations, and serving as the main contact for donor hospitality during home games. Your role is crucial for cultivating relationships with supporters and enhancing their engagement with Wake Forest Athletics.

To be considered for the Development Fellow for Donor Engagement position at Wake Forest University, applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree and have familiarity with Microsoft Office and Google Suite. Experience with event planning and strong communication skills are vital, as you’ll be working closely with diverse stakeholders and managing several tasks simultaneously. The ability to maintain confidentiality and exhibit strong interpersonal skills will be crucial for success in this role.

Yes, experience with event planning is highly beneficial for the Development Fellow for Donor Engagement position at Wake Forest University. This role involves coordinating various donor events and managing logistics, so having a background in organizing events will help you excel. The position requires strong organizational skills and the ability to juggle multiple tasks, making prior experience in a similar capacity an asset.

Wake Forest University seeks a Development Fellow for Donor Engagement who possesses strong organizational and communication abilities, both written and verbal. Familiarity with software tools like Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Canva is required. Additionally, effective collaboration skills are necessary, as you'll be working with a diverse community. Adaptability and a positive attitude when facing challenges in a fast-paced environment are also critical to your success in this role.

The Development Fellow for Donor Engagement position at Wake Forest University is a fixed-term role that begins around July 1, 2025, and concludes on April 30, 2026. This timeframe allows ample opportunity to make an impact during key events and engagements within the athletics department.

When discussing your event planning experience, highlight specific events you’ve organized, focusing on your role in logistics, coordination, and execution. Emphasize your ability to manage timelines, communicate with vendors or stakeholders, and handle any unexpected challenges creatively.

In response to last-minute changes, it’s crucial to remain calm and adaptable. Explain how you would prioritize tasks, communicate with team members and stakeholders, and develop contingency plans to ensure the event runs smoothly despite any obstacles. Provide an example from past experience if possible.

To engage effectively with donors, I would focus on personalizing interactions, proactively communicating event details, and truly listening to their needs. Building genuine relationships through follow-up emails, invitations to events, or personal notes of appreciation can make a significant impact on their engagement.

Managing multiple responsibilities under pressure requires strong organizational skills and prioritization. During an interview, illustrate how you create to-do lists, use digital tools for managing tasks, and delegate responsibilities when necessary to ensure efficiency. Share an example that demonstrates your ability to thrive in pressure situations.

Maintaining confidentiality is paramount. Discuss your understanding of sensitive information and demonstrate your commitment to ethical standards. You can mention specific practices, like securing documents, limiting information access, or training on handling confidential materials that you’ve followed in previous roles.

Highlight your proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and Canva or any event management software you are familiar with. Explain how you have used these tools to streamline communications, create engaging content, or manage event logistics effectively in past roles.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to detail a specific event challenge you faced, such as venue issues or scheduling conflicts. Discuss the steps you took to address the issue, any collaboration with team members or stakeholders, and the positive outcome that resulted from your proactive approach.

Express your enthusiasm for the impact this role can have on building community and fostering relationships within Wake Forest Athletics. Share your passion for sports, philanthropy, or community engagement and how they align with your career goals. Demonstrating this alignment shows genuine interest in the position.

Discuss strategies such as creating engaging email campaigns, utilizing social media platforms, and personal outreach to key donors. You might mention designing eye-catching promotional materials and ensuring clear messaging about the event's value proposition to encourage attendance effectively.

Emphasize the importance of prompt and personalized post-event follow-up. Frame your answer around sending thank-you notes, surveys to gather feedback, and invitations to future engagements. This proactive approach ensures that donors feel valued and fosters stronger relationships moving forward.