Under the general supervision of the President of the College, the VPIA leads fundraising and advancement programs as well as the College’s marketing and communications programs to strengthen relationships with external and internal constituents. As Executive Director of the HCC Foundation, the VPIA also maintains oversight of the HCC Foundation, including support to the HCC Foundation Board of Directors and committees to ensure active implementation of strategic portfolio investment and operational plans. The VPIA works closely with the Office of the President on external relations, serving as the President’s liaison.
- Serves as a member of the President’s Cabinet and is a key strategic advisor on institutional priorities, external relations, marketing and communications and resource development.
- Provides leadership, supervision and strategic direction to Institutional Advancement and Foundation staff including goal setting, performance management, and professional development.
- Works with the President and other College personnel to identify programs and projects in need of philanthropic support in alignment with strategic goals and plans.
- Provides vision and leadership in creating Institutional Advancement and Foundation plans and priorities that enhance fundraising efforts based on annual plans to meet financial goals of the College’s strategic plan that include private sector giving and an assessment of return on investment.
- Oversees fund campaigns (annual, capital and comprehensive) and other targeted fundraising efforts and provides major gifts and planned giving expertise. Provides stewardship for major gifts prospects for the institution.
- Responsible for fiscal accountability, donor records and for reporting on philanthropic gifts as appropriate.
- Provides oversight to the development and implementation of a comprehensive strategy to market College and enhance its image and relationships with various external and internal audiences within the community, helping meet enrollment targets and encouraging broad-based support throughout the region.
- As Executive Director of the Holyoke Community College Foundation, responsible for leading the Foundation with energy and focus in a manner that supports and guides the Foundation’s mission as defined by the Board of Directors. Develops and directs a comprehensive development program, including the cultivation and stewardship of individual, corporate, and foundation donors, as well as the development and implementation of a variety of fundraising strategies, which include major gifts, planned giving, corporate and foundation solicitations, and annual fundraising efforts.
- Oversees the development and management of the Institutional Advancement budget and Foundation budget, and maintains the integrity of financial reports and statements.
- Ensures proper compliance and maintenance of personnel records.
- Maintains effective lines of communication and collaborates with internal and external constituencies, including the Department of Higher Education and other state agencies, legal counsels’ office, and other human resources professionals.
- Represents the President and College with various constituencies, including the Board of Trustees, management, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and various external entities.
- In collaboration with the Chief of Operations, serves as liaison between the President and the College to ensure a coordinated approach to long and short-term fundraising initiatives across campus.
- Initiates, directs and manages the flow of the President’s ongoing and crisis communication, including high profile speeches and other communications. Collaborates with the Chief of Operations and Cabinet members, ensuring consistency and responsiveness.
- Builds and nurtures relationships to serve as a resource for the President and point of contact as designated for key constituents to resolve complex issues and help move forward strategic priorities.
- Provides leadership and support to advance HCC's pursuit of private funding.
- Works with the President, Board of Trustees, HCC Foundation Board, Alumni, community stakeholders, the IA Directors team and the Leadership Gift Officer to identify, steward, and solicit gifts and grants from private sources including private and family foundations, corporate donors, and individuals.
- Performs special projects and all other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in a related area and a minimum of five years of progressive experience in fundraising.
- A proven track record of success in cultivating and soliciting private support from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
- Excellent management skills with the ability to develop a team approach in managing staff, Foundation board members and volunteers.
- Demonstrated expertise in planned giving vehicles, including bequests, charitable gift annuities, trusts, and estate gifts, with experience cultivating and closing planned gifts as part of a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
- Appreciation for and ability to develop an understanding of the local and regional community, including the economic, cultural, and civic landscape of the greater western Massachusetts region, and an appreciation for how community college mission and values drive philanthropy.
- Experience in marketing and/or public relations, including developing and implementing effective marketing strategies, publications, image-enhancing activities, and special events.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Understanding of and a passion for advancing the cause of a community college. Ability to work effectively with a diverse Foundation board, faculty, staff, and student body.
- General understanding of the external environment and how it affects academia in general and the Pioneer Valley in particular, including political, legal, environmental, educational, financial, and social influences.
- Models inclusive excellence through specific actions that support the College’s diversity commitment. • Experience working with Foundation boards, non-profits and/or other related entities.
Equivalency Statement:
We welcome and encourage applicants who do not meet the qualifications as stated above, to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them for the responsibilities of this position. It is preferred that this document be uploaded separately from the resume, cover letter, and references.Preferred Qualifications:- Prior work experience in higher education.
- Knowledge of Raisers Edge software.
- Advanced designation (e.g., CFP, CAP, and CFRE).
Application, Inquiries, and Nominations:
Gonser Gerber LLP is assisting Holyoke Community College with this executive search. Prospective candidates may arrange a confidential conversation with Dr. Meredith Brunen, Senior Consultant, at mbrunen@gonsergerber.com.
Applications and nominations should be submitted electronically to search@gonsergerber.com.
Applications must include (All materials should be submitted in PDF format):
A cover letter that addresses the responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the position prospectus
A current curriculum vitae
A list of five (5) professional references, including contact information and a brief description of the relationship to the applicant.
The position will remain open until it is filled; however, applications received by June 1, 2026, will receive full consideration.
Expected salary range for this full-time, on-site position is $159,423.95 - $193,963.61.
