Vice President of Advancement

Location : Sterling, Virginia (Hybrid / Flexible Work Schedule Available)

Reports to : President

Supervises : Development Team, including Alumni relations

Status : Full-time, Exempt

About Divine Mercy University

Divine Mercy University (DMU), located in Northern Virginia, is a Catholic graduate institution founded and sponsored by the Legionaries of Christ, a religious congregation of the Catholic Church. The University is committed to forming professionals who integrate the Catholic-Christian vision of the human person with the psychological sciences and counseling practices. With academic excellence and fidelity to the Church’s Magisterium, DMU exists to respond to the mental health crisis with compassion, competence, and faith.

Position Summary

DMU seeks a dynamic, visionary Vice President of Advancement to lead and expand its fundraising efforts. This strategic role will focus on building long-term sustainability through major gifts, growing the endowment, launching endowed chairs, and cultivating a strong donor community grounded in the University’s mission.

The Vice President of Advancement will work closely with the President and leadership team to articulate DMU's mission to donors and prospects. This individual will manage and coach a team of development professionals, currently three, fostering a culture of excellence, mission alignment, and strategic growth.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Fundraising & Vision

• Lead the creation and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure major gifts, grow the endowment, and support campaign initiatives.
• Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major gift donors, foundations, and strategic partners.
• Launch and support initiatives to establish endowed chairs and long-term funding priorities.

Mission-Driven Storytelling & Donor Engagement

Team Leadership & Coaching

Donor Base Development & Systems Management

Qualifications

Why Join DMU?

This is a unique opportunity to help build a Catholic institution that forms the next generation of mental health professionals who bring healing to the world. The Director of Development will have a key role in shaping the future of Divine Mercy University while working in collaboration with the Legionaries of Christ and other mission-aligned partners.