POSITION IDENTIFICATION
TITLE University Advancement Communications Specialist
CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 1717
GRADE 42
CLASSIFICATION Exempt
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: Director of University Advancement Communications
GENERAL FUNCTION
The University Advancement Communications Specialist develops, writes, edits, designs
and produces strategic print and digital communications that advance the mission and
priorities of University Advancement. The position researches and tells compelling
stories that inspire philanthropy, strengthen alumni and constituent engagement, demonstrate
donor impact and showcase the transformative experiences of Missouri State University
students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.
The position creates integrated communications supporting fundraising, donor stewardship,
alumni relations, campaign initiatives and the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement
Center through strategic storytelling, graphic design, social media, digital communications
and marketing materials. The position collaborates with University Advancement staff
and campus partners to ensure communications are audience-centered, visually engaging,
and consistent with University branding, editorial standards, and strategic priorities.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Bachelor's degree in Strategic Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing,
Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field is required. An equivalent
combination of education and professional experience may be considered for substitution
of educational requirements.
Experience: At least two years of progressively responsible professional experience in communications,
marketing, public relations, graphic design, higher education, or nonprofit communications
is required. Experience developing integrated print and digital communications, writing
for multiple audiences, and creating graphic design using Adobe Creative Cloud is
required. Experience supporting fundraising or advancement communications is preferred.
A portfolio demonstrating professional writing and graphic design work is preferred.
Skills: Strong professional written and verbal communication skills, along with solid research abilities, are required. Candidates must demonstrate excellent presentation and customer service skills, including the ability to develop and deliver professional presentations. Proficiency in graphic design, signage development, promotional materials, and related software applications is also required to support University Advancement events and engagement initiatives.
Other: This position may be required to attend after-hours events and travel to represent our division and the university at long-distance events.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Develops written and visual communications supporting fundraising, donor stewardship, alumni engagement, constituent relations, and University Advancement initiatives.2. Maintains budget authority for projects, such as social media ads, ordering collateral and giveaway items.
3. Researches, interviews and writes feature stories highlighting donor generosity, student success, faculty excellence, alumni achievement, and the impact of private philanthropy.
4. Writes, edits and designs publications including brochures, newsletters, annual reports, impact reports, invitations, campaign materials, donor recognition pieces, magazine articles, blogs, and digital content.
5. Produces fundraising communications supporting annual giving, major giving, planned giving, comprehensive campaigns and donor stewardship initiatives.
6. Designs graphics and visual communications for print, web, email, presentations, social media, digital displays, and marketing campaigns consistent with Missouri State University's visual identity standards.
7. Works with University Advancement team members to develop engaging content for social media platforms, including graphics, photography, short-form videos, captions, and campaign assets.
8. Creates visual storytelling materials including infographics, illustrations, and other creative assets communicating the impact of philanthropy and lifelong engagement.
9. Designs environmental graphics, digital displays, interpretive signage, and visitor communications supporting the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center.
10. Creates presentations, event graphics, signage, promotional materials, and other collateral supporting University Advancement events and engagement activities.
11. Collaborates with development officers, donor relations staff, alumni engagement professionals, and campus partners to develop integrated communications.
12. Ensures communications comply with University branding standards, accessibility requirements, and Associated Press style.
13. Edits and proofreads communications for accuracy, consistency, and quality.
14. Maintains organized digital files, templates, photography, and creative assets.
15. Researches emerging communications, marketing, and design trends.
16. Represents University Advancement at events to gather stories and content.
17. Maintains confidentiality regarding donor and University information.
18. Participates in professional development.
19. Performs other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION
The University Advancement Communications Specialist has no direct supervisory role but may assist in coordinating student employees, interns and freelance creative professionals assigned to University Advancement Communications projects.
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
REVISED AUGUST 2026