The Associate Director of Early Engagement, reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving, is responsible for designing and implementing a comprehensive strategy that connects students and recent graduates to the University in meaningful and lasting ways. This role plays a critical part in building the foundation for lifelong alumni engagement by creating early, positive, and consistent interactions with the institution. By focusing on the transition from student to alumnus, the Associate Director ensures that engagement begins before graduation and continues through the critical first decade after leaving campus. The Associate Director leads the development of student-alumni programming that fosters connection, identity, and affinity with the University, including oversight of student leadership groups, milestone events, and programs that connect students with alumni mentors and networks. A key focus of this position is the engagement of young alumni, particularly those within the first 0-10 years after graduation. The Associate Director also partners closely with Enrollment Management to leverage alumni in the admissions process, and collaborates with Annual Giving to develop strategies that increase participation among young alumni.

The projected salary or hourly pay range for this position which represents the full range of anticipated compensation is $80,000 - $85,000.

Design and implement a comprehensive early engagement strategy. The Associate Director develops a long-term strategy that connects students and young alumni to the University through meaningful experiences. This includes identifying key engagement milestones and designing programs that support those moments, ensuring a seamless transition from student engagement to alumni engagement.
Lead student-alumni programming initiatives. The Associate Director oversees programs that connect students with alumni through mentorship, networking, and shared experiences. These initiatives are designed to build relationships and foster a sense of belonging, aligned with institutional priorities and student needs.
Develop targeted young alumni engagement efforts. The Associate Director creates programming specifically designed for recent graduates, focusing on social, professional, and service opportunities during the critical first 0-10 years after graduation, ensuring programming is relevant and accessible to a diverse audience.
Partner with Enrollment Management to leverage alumni in recruitment and admissions. The Associate Director develops and manages opportunities for alumni—particularly young alumni—to support undergraduate recruitment efforts. This includes creating volunteer ambassador programs, participating in yield events, and aligning alumni storytelling with admissions priorities.
Integrate early engagement efforts with Annual Giving strategies to build participation. The Associate Director collaborates closely with Annual Giving to align engagement programming with philanthropic participation goals for students and young alumni. This includes developing giving education initiatives, supporting student philanthropy efforts, and creating pathways from engagement to first-time giving.
Develop and manage student philanthropy and giving education initiatives. The Associate Director designs and implements programs that educate students about philanthropy and the impact of giving to the University. This includes overseeing initiatives such as senior class gift campaigns, philanthropy awareness events, and partnerships with student organizations.
Utilize data and analytics to inform early engagement strategy and measure impact. The Associate Director tracks engagement trends, participation rates, and outcomes across student and young alumni initiatives to assess effectiveness. This includes leveraging CRM systems and engagement metrics to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
Partner in the development and execution of a comprehensive communications and social media strategy. The Associate Director partners closely with Advancement Communications to assist in the design and delivery of targeted messaging that engages students and young alumni across digital and traditional channels, ensuring communications are strategic, data-informed, and effectively drive engagement.
Other duties as assigned.
Bachelor's degree required. 3+ years relevant experience in alumni engagement, advancement operations, data analytics, or a related field.
Proficiency with CRM systems; experience with digital engagement tools and social media platforms.
Mission-focused; Collaborative & Communicative; Organized & Reliable; Creative & Inventive; Strategic & Decisive.
Exceptional people skills, strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.

The Catholic University of America

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Associate Director, Early Alumni Engagement