Philanthropy Specialist - Donor Relations

University of Kentucky

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

Posting Details Posting Details Job TitlePhilanthropy Specialist - Donor RelationsRequisition NumberRE53921Working TitleDepartment Name8H050:Engineering Alumni - DevelopmentWork LocationLexington, KYGrade Level46Salary Range$52,021-85,800/yearType of PositionStaffPosition Time Status Full-TimeRequired Education

BA

Click here for more information about equivalencies:https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalenciesRequired Related Experience

5 yrs

Required License/Registration/CertificationNonePhysical RequirementsSitting for long periods of time.ShiftMonday-Friday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm and additional hours as needed for donor and alumni events.Job Summary The Philanthropy Specialist – Donor Relations plays a key role in advancing philanthropic support for the Pigman College of Engineering by designing and delivering meaningful donor experiences that strengthen long-term relationships and inspire continued investment. This position partners closely with development officers, faculty, and campus stakeholders to communicate impact, steward donor relationships, and align donor interests with the college’s strategic priorities.

The role leads donor centered communications and stewardship strategies, manages a portfolio of prospective and current donors, and plans high quality engagement opportunities including events, recognition activities, and personalized outreach that reflect the values and mission of the University of Kentucky. In addition, the Philanthropy Specialist – Donor Relations serves as the primary liaison for the College of Engineering Young Alumni Philanthropy Council, supporting its philanthropic initiatives and fostering a culture of engagement among emerging alumni leaders.

Through collaboration, creativity, and attention to detail, this position helps ensure donors experience thoughtful stewardship, clear impact, and meaningful connection to the College of Engineering and its future.

The culture within the Office of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement is built on our shared core values CoMMIT– Collaboration, Communication, Mission Driven, Mutual Respect, Innovation and Transparency.

By applying for a position within UK PAE, you are indicating your commitment and expressing your agreement to our six values. It is important you share these values in order to be part of our committed team!Skills / Knowledge / AbilitiesDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? NoPreferred Education/ExperienceDeadline to Apply04/13/2026Our University CommunityWe value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Describe your experience developing communication to donor/constituents to further engage them in your organization and gauge their interests in philanthropy.

   (Open Ended Question)

2. * Which best describes your experience developing communication to donor/constituents to further engage them in your organization and gauge their interests in philanthropy?
   • None
   • More than 0, up through 1 year
   • More than 1 year, up through 3 years
   • More than 3 years, up through 5 years
   • More than 5 years
3. * Describe a previous position you have held that had fundraising goals and how did you meet those goals.

   (Open Ended Question)

4. * Describe your paid employment experience creating networks and coordinating events.

   (Open Ended Question)

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume

Optional Documents

1. Cover Letter

PI283698048