A nationally ranked private university with seven degree-granting schools, Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a distinguished center for teaching and research located near the heart of Dallas, Texas. SMU’s 11,600 students benefit from small classes, research opportunities, leadership development, international study and innovative programs. The University is strengthened by its partnership with the North Texas region, a global center of commerce and culture. SMU students, faculty and alumni are changing the world through their chosen fields, civic engagement and service to society.

SMU’s progress in the last 20 years includes a near tripling of applications, an increase of more than 165 points in the student SAT average scores, an increase in underrepresented student population enrollment to 25 percent and a more than doubling of the University endowment, currently valued at $1.5 billion. SMU has completed two comprehensive campaigns: the first, having raised $541 million; the second, having raised over $1.15 billion. SMU anticipates another comprehensive campaign within the next few years.

The Opportunity

The Assistant Vice President for School and Project Development (AVP) will oversee the comprehensive fundraising, alumni engagement and recognition/stewardship programs of SMU’s schools and the Department of Athletics. In this effort, the AVP directly manages school and athletic fundraising staff, and coordinates closely with other units across campus with regard to fundraising initiatives of high priority. Reporting to the Vice President for Development and External Affairs, the AVP is a key member of the Development and External Affairs (DEA) leadership team and will play a significant role in developing the execution plan for the University’s next comprehensive campaign. This position is a tremendous opportunity for a seasoned professional to lead SMU’s new Office of School and Project Development, and act as an inspiring leader and an effective advocate and ally for SMU.