Advancement Events and Engagement Manager
Ursuline Academy, Dedham, MA
JOB SUMMARY:
Ursuline Academy, an independent Catholic school for women in grades 7 – 12, seeks a dynamic and detail-oriented Advancement Events and Engagement Manager to lead the strategy, planning, and execution of the school’s signature fundraising events and parent/community engagement efforts. Reporting to the Chief Advancement Officer, this role is central to advancing the Academy’s mission by generating critical operating support and strengthening relationships with parents, alumnae, and the broader Ursuline community.
This position is ideal for a collaborative professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, balances multiple priorities with precision, and brings both creativity and discipline to event-driven fundraising. As a member of the Advancement team, the Manager works closely with school leadership, colleagues, and volunteers, and is expected to fully support and promote the mission and values of Ursuline Academy.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Events
- Provide overall direction and hands-on leadership for Ursuline’s signature fundraising events, including but not limited to the annual gala and golf tournament.
Develop and manage comprehensive event plans, including timelines, budgets, logistics, staffing, vendor coordination, facilities, and risk management. - Partner with the Advancement team to identify, solicit, and steward sponsors, donors, and key event participants.
- Collaborate with the Advancement Services Manager to ensure accurate tracking, acknowledgment, and reporting of event revenue and participation.
Parent and Community Engagement
- Build, strengthen, and staff the Parents Guild by recruiting and developing parent volunteers and volunteer leaders.
- Design and implement strategies that deepen parent engagement and foster meaningful connections to the Ursuline community.
- Create opportunities for parents to learn about, support, and actively participate in the life of the school.
Campus and Institutional Events
- Serve as the Advancement liaison for commencement and other large-scale on-campus events.
- Support staff-related events, including Catholic Schools Week and staff appreciation initiatives.
- Assist with additional Advancement events and projects as needed.
Reporting and Collaboration
- Prepare and deliver reports for the Head of School, Chief Advancement Officer, and Advancement Committee.
- Work collaboratively with administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers across the school.
- Travel as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the role.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Two to three years of experience in special events, advancement, or a related fundraising environment.
- Working knowledge of fundraising principles and best practices.
- Exceptional organizational skills with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
- Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
- Experience in an independent school or higher education setting is preferred.
- Experience with Raiser’s Edge and NXT is a plus.
- A collaborative mindset, strong work ethic, and a positive, solutions-oriented approach.
- All prospective employees must successfully complete a background check.
A detailed job description will be provided to candidates during the interview process.
Why Ursuline Academy
Ursuline Academy offers a mission-driven environment where advancement work has a direct and meaningful impact on students, families, and the broader community. This role provides the opportunity to lead high-visibility events, build lasting relationships, and contribute to the long-term vitality of a respected independent Catholic school.
Salary Range: $55,000 – $60,000
We’ve shared a salary range for transparency, but we’re open to further discussion if you feel this role aligns well with your experience and goals.
To Apply:
Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter outlining interest and qualifications for this position to Leigh Ann Luetzen at lluetzen@ursulineacademy.net
Ursuline Academy