A flagship institution within the State University of New York (SUNY) system, Stony Brook University is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and is known as one of the nation’s premier centers for academic excellence and a leader in generating social mobility. In the last decade, with an investment of resources and support from leadership, the Advancement division experienced dramatic growth, a heightened level of professionalization, and a strong adherence to industry best practices. That success is evidenced by The Campaign for Stony Brook, the most successful fundraising effort in SUNY history. As a national leader in moving students from the bottom to the top of the socioeconomic ladder, Stony Brook’s mission of excellence coupled with access is a rare combination that has the potential to excite increased support from private philanthropy.
The Opportunity
Stony Brook seeks an experienced advancement leader to serve in the newly created role of Senior Associate Vice President for Advancement/Chief Development Officer (CDO). Reporting directly to Vice President for Advancement, Justin Fincher, the CDO will play a key role in shaping and propelling the Advancement Division into its next stage of growth, capitalizing on the momentum that is driving Stony Brook into the ranks of the most highly regarded public research universities in the nation. This individual will manage the day-to-day operation of all major gifts fundraising teams, including staff in units (e.g., the College of Arts and Sciences, Stony Brook Medicine) and in central fundraising (e.g., Gift Planning, Foundation Relations). This includes over 20 frontline fundraisers collectively managing just under 3,000 prospective donors, with significant investments planned in the coming years. The CDO will inspire innovative and expansive thinking around fundraising opportunities across the institution and will be instrumental in partnering with the VP of Advancement in expanding, leading, and inspiring the Advancement Division over the next few years as the institution plans for its next campaign.
The CDO will be a proven coach, mentor, and leader of teams with a demonstrated track record of building sustainable models for an institution’s future. The right candidate will bring a spirit of optimism while raising sights, instilling industry innovation, and broadening the donor base to elevate the institution’s profile and reputation among key public universities.
