Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Donor Stewardship & Engagement Specialist

Be You.

At Duke Athletics, we believe our greatest strength comes from the unique experiences, perspectives, and talents of our people. Guided by our values of respect, trust, inclusion, discovery, and excellence, we are committed to creating an environment where every member of our community feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to thrive. As the Donor Stewardship & Engagement Specialist, you will play a key role in cultivating meaningful relationships with the generous supporters who help advance the mission of Duke Athletics. Working collaboratively across Athletics, Advancement, and University partners, you will help ensure donors experience the impact of their philanthropy through thoughtful engagement, recognition, and stewardship. If you are passionate about relationship-building, strategic communication, and creating exceptional donor experiences, we invite you to bring your talents to Duke.

Be Bold.

Join the Iron Dukes team and lead innovative stewardship initiatives that strengthen donor connections and inspire lasting philanthropic support. In this highly collaborative role, you will help shape the donor experience, elevate engagement opportunities, and create meaningful moments that connect supporters to Duke Athletics' mission and student-athlete success.

What You'll Do:

Lead Donor Stewardship & Engagement

• Develop and implement comprehensive stewardship strategies for annual, leadership, major gift, and principal gift donors.
• Create personalized engagement opportunities that deepen donor relationships and support long-term retention.
• Partner with development officers to design customized stewardship plans and meaningful donor touchpoints.
• Research and implement innovative stewardship practices that enhance the donor experience.

Manage Donor Recognition Programs

• Oversee recognition initiatives for giving societies, affinity groups, endowed funds, capital projects, and sport-specific programs.
• Coordinate donor acknowledgments, recognition opportunities, and benefit fulfillment activities.
• Lead milestone recognition efforts, appreciation initiatives, and naming opportunity stewardship programs.

Create Meaningful Donor Experiences

• Plan and execute stewardship-focused events, hospitality experiences, scholarship celebrations, facility dedications, and VIP engagement activities.
• Collaborate with coaches, Athletics staff, and campus partners to create memorable donor interactions.