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 inaugural role of Executive Director of Development, Schools and Colleges presents an exciting opportunity to lead philanthropic initiatives across the College of Arts and Sciences, the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, and the Cathy Hughes School of Communications, among other vital academic units.

This role is ideal for an individual with hands-on expertise in major gift fundraising, a track record of collaborative leadership, and the vision to support and grow development programs for less-resourced schools. Key responsibilities include building a robust donor pipeline, fostering interdisciplinary initiatives, and developing sustainable support structures for academic growth.

The Executive Director will split time between managing a portfolio of high-net-worth donors and leading a team of development professionals. By cultivating relationships, identifying high-priority funding needs, and collaborating with deans and faculty, this leader will play a central role in aligning fundraising efforts with strategic priorities and furthering Howard’s mission.

As part of a dedicated Development and Alumni Relations team, the Executive Director will be instrumental in advancing Howard’s legacy of empowering scholars and engaging alumni in impactful partnerships that benefit students, faculty, and communities worldwide.

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