Howard University, a historic institution founded in 1867, is a model of educational excellence, particularly for Black students, with a diverse and distinguished body of over 120,000 alumni. Offering over 120 fields of study, the University produces top professionals in medicine, law, communications, and the arts, among others. The University’s commitment to social change, innovation, and cultural diversity fuels its unique role as a transformative force in society and the global community. Excellence, leadership, service, and truth form Howard’s guiding principles, with an unwavering dedication to addressing issues that impact the African Diaspora.

The University’s Howard Forward Strategic Plan underscores its focus on academic excellence, new knowledge, community service, efficiency, and financial sustainability. As the University prepares to launch a new strategic plan, it aims to sustain its transformative impact and foster future-ready leadership across disciplines.

The Opportunity

The Executive Director of Development, Centers and Institutes is a key position within Howard University’s Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) division.

Charged with advancing philanthropy for the university’s Centers, Institutes, and Athletics programs, the Executive Director will steward and secure transformational support from key donors, including influential alumni and other major gift prospects. This role will contribute significantly to Howard’s interdisciplinary and athletics initiatives by leading efforts to cultivate relationships that align with the university’s vision and mission.

Reporting to the AVP for Individual Giving, the Executive Director will work closely with campus leadership and influencers to expand resources for Howard’s Centers and Institutes. The role calls for an innovative leader adept at navigating a complex, matrixed organization with the skills to design and execute large-scale fundraising strategies.

The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in defining the future of Howard University’s fundraising initiatives, helping the institution expand its impact and address contemporary issues that impact the African Diaspora and broader global community.

The salary range for this position is $160,000 – $180,000.