Director of Alumnae Engagement and Reunion Giving (Bethesda)

The Holton-Arms School seeks a dynamic and innovative professional to lead the alumnae engagement and reunion giving program. This is a full-time, twelve-month position.

Founded more than a century ago, Holton-Arms School encourages young women in grades 3-12 to approach the world with a thirst for challenge, unflinching curiosity, and a sense of responsibility to use what they learn for the greatest good. A nationally-recognized school that prioritizes purposeful connections, Holton is a vibrant place where both students and faculty are deeply engaged in the process of learning and bring tremendous spirit and passion to their work.

With a long legacy of excellence in educating girls, Holton provides students with time-tested and future-forward programming, preparing them for what the world needs next. The mission of the Holton-Arms School is to cultivate the unique potential of young women through the “education not only of the mind, but of the soul and spirit.” Founded in 1901 by two visionary women, Holton-Arms continues to cultivate a diverse, inclusive, and equitable school community; tend to the health and wellbeing of its members; and build a global curriculum that responds to the learners in its classrooms and the world around us.

The school’s aspirations and current program are rooted in Mrs. Holton’s founding vision: “My high hope is that they who enter through the ‘Open Door’ of Holton-Arms remember they felt, in the friendliness of a home, the urge to learn and the joy of overcoming obstacles as the way to happiness and the fullest life.” In this vibrant community committed to academic excellence, discovery, creativity, and joy, students are scholars, artists, and athletes who find their voices, take risks, learn from mistakes, pursue leadership opportunities, and build lifelong friendships. The school motto, I nveniam viam aut faciam (I will find a way or make one), exemplifies this spirit of agency and empowerment.

We seek applicants from diverse backgrounds, talents, and interests who share our passion for helping girls learn, grow, and thrive. Together, we are committed to cultivating the leaders of tomorrow who will make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Director of Development, the Director of Alumnae Engagement and Reunion Giving will manage and execute a comprehensive alumnae engagement and milestone reunion giving program to increase alumnae connection, involvement, and giving to the school.

Responsibilities:

• Manages a strategic and comprehensive reunion giving program in sync with The Holton Fund and major gift programs;
• Manages a portfolio of leadership reunion prospects;
• Manages an Associate to support reunion giving and engagement;
• Plans and implements both in-person and virtual engaging programming. Program offerings should engage and re-engage current and prospective alumnae donors at various time-of-life stages, including but not limited to regional gatherings, social events, networking events, Reunion Weekend; and other outreach including AlumnaENews, Doorways, and social media;

• Recruits and manages volunteers in order to increase their connection to the school;
• Provide support, strategic mentoring, and visionary assistance to the Alumnae Board including the identification, cultivation, and recruitment of Board members; oversight of meetings; and annual review of by-laws;
• Serves as staff liaison to alumnae and student organizations and programs and other designated offices/constituents of the school community including but not limited to alumnae affinity groups, Alumnae Association Board, reunion volunteers for event planning and fundraising, Boosters, classroom speakers, and Senior Projects;
• Documents, updates, and standardizes operating procedures for Alumnae Engagement and Reunion Giving;
• Understands and promotes best practices in independent school fundraising, including CASE’s Statement of Ethics and Principals of Practice for Fundraising Professionals at Educational Institutions and AFP’s Code of Ethics and Donor Bill of Rights ; and
• Understands and embraces Holton-Arms School’s mission, philosophy, and values, and, in partnership with the Director of Development establishes a culture of teamwork, trust, collegiality, and accountability within the Development team.

Desired qualities include:

• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle deadline pressure and flexibility to pivot when needed.
• Attention to detail, with the ability to think strategically and long-term.
• Experience working with advisory boards or volunteer committees.
• Ability to motivate volunteers and colleagues.
• An interest and the ability to connect with alumnae with areas of interest in signature programming for the delivery of Holton’s mission.

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s Degree with 3-5 years in independent schools, higher education, non-profit or similar professional setting working with volunteer management, alumnae or client relations, event management, fundraising, or related responsibilities.
• A proven ability to balance short and long-term projects and possess excellent executive functioning and project managements skills is essential.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, Google Workspace, and ability to learn new software programs and functions including donor database and online community options. Familiarity with Raiser’s Edge and/or Veracross is desirable.
• Travel is required with up to 30% of the time spent outside of the office for events or fundraising meetings.
• Ability to keep information confidential.
• Support the mission and values of the school.
• Committed to personal and professional development.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Mission Statement

Holton-Arms cherishes the uniqueness of each of our members including current and former students, faculty, and staff. We seek to create an inclusive environment that sees, values, and supports diverse identities and experiences, cultivates engaging discourse, and empowers our students to be thriving members of the global community.

At Holton-Arms, each of us is responsible for fostering an equitable, respectful, and just community. We are committed to:

• Discovering, developing, and valuing our full authentic selves.
• Deepening awareness of personal and systemic biases and being accountable for the impact of our words and actions.
• Developing an understanding of the historical origins and perpetuation of systems of power and privilege.
• Engaging in open and brave conversations that promote growth, understanding, connection, and agency.
• Embracing every individual as essential to the community.

The average salary range for this position is $95,000 - $105,000, the exact salary to be determined based on education and experience. This is a full-time 12 month salary exempt position and overtime is not available. Benefits include health insurance with a generous employer contribution to medical, dental and vision; life and disability insurance; 403b retirement savings with an employer match and non-elective contribution; employee assistance program, tuition remission for eligible children; professional development opportunities; paid parental leave after one year of employment; paid sick and personal days; and lunch is provided on school days.

To be considered for this position, candidates must submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three professional references (one of whom must be a current or most recent supervisor) HERE