Vice President for University Advancement

The Vice President for University Advancement (VPUA) provides strategic and operational leadership for all advancement functions, including Development, Alumni Relations, and Marketing and Communications, across Midwestern University’s two campuses in Downers Grove, Illinois, and Glendale, Arizona.

As a key member of the President’s senior leadership team, the VPUA will design and implement a comprehensive, institution-wide advancement strategy that strengthens the University’s philanthropic support, alumni engagement, and brand visibility. This leader will foster collaboration across both campuses while honoring their distinct cultures and traditions.

The VPUA will play a pivotal role in shaping and advancing Midwestern University’s priorities, including student scholarships, academic innovation, clinical and health service expansion, and One Health initiatives. This position will guide a high-performing, collaborative team and integrate advancement initiatives with the University’s mission and long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Partner with the President, Chief Academic Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and other senior leaders to develop and execute a multi-year Advancement Strategic Plan aligned with institutional goals.
• Lead and align advancement strategies across both campuses, ensuring consistent best practices, shared services, and responsiveness to campus-specific needs.
• Serve as a key partner in planning major capital initiatives, program launches, and clinical expansions where philanthropy plays a strategic role.
• Represent the University to major donors, foundations, corporations, and alumni communities nationwide.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators across major and planned giving, annual giving, alumni engagement, stewardship, and campaign progress.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and ethical, data-driven fundraising across all advancement operations.

Advancement Operations

Team Leadership and Culture

Compliance, Ethics, and Best Practices

Qualifications

Education and Experience

Leadership Skills and Competencies

Compensation and Institutional Support

The University offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and the dual‑campus scope of responsibility. The VPUA will have access to strong presidential leadership, dedicated advancement teams on both campuses, and resources that include budget support and travel resources for donor engagement and regular coordination between the Downers Grove and Glendale campuses.

Midwestern University is a dynamic institution on the rise – expanding its reach, deepening its impact, and shaping the future of health sciences education. With nationally recognized programs, growing philanthropic investment, and an unmistakable spirit of innovation, MWU is poised to erupt onto the national stage. This is an exceptional opportunity for an advancement leader who thrives on building momentum, driving collaboration, and fueling a mission that transforms lives through education, healthcare, and community impact.

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with all federal, state and local laws and regulations. Midwestern University complies with the Smoke‑Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36‑601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82 / ). Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.

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