Advancement Communications Specialist

Job Description

Advancement Communications Specialist
Reports to: Director of Marketing & Communication

Position Overview
The Advancement Communications Specialist serves a vital role in advancing the mission of St. John's Catholic Newman Center by telling compelling, mission-centered stories that inspire generosity and deepen engagement. Working under the direction of the Director of
Marketing & Communication, this position develops strategic communications that support annual giving, alumni engagement, and major fundraising initiatives.

This individual will translate the transformational impact of campus ministry into donor-centered messaging that invites alumni, parents, and friends into deeper partnership with the mission of St. John's Catholic Newman Center to equip college students for lifelong connection to Christ and His Church.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Campaign Communications
• Write and produce annual giving materials, including appeals, impact reports, case statements, stewardship pieces, and digital campaigns
• Develop messaging and creative content for seasonal and special fundraising initiatives
• Collaborate with advancement staff to ensure communications align with campaign strategy and donor segmentation
• Assist with messaging for major gift and capital campaign efforts as needed

Alumni & Donor Communications
• Plan, write, and edit alumni newsletters (print and digital)
• Develop donor stewardship communications that clearly demonstrate gift impact
• Craft personalized donor stories and profiles that highlight generosity and mission alignment
• Maintain a consistent voice that reflects both Catholic identity and relational warmth

Storytelling & Content Development
• Identify, interview, and write mission-oriented stories of:
o Alumni living out their Catholic faith in parish, family, and professional life
o Current students impacted by campus ministry
o Donors whose generosity fuels the mission
• Collaborate with campus ministry staff to capture stories of spiritual growth, discipleship, and vocational discernment
• Ensure all messaging is donor-centric, emphasizing transformation and partnership in mission

Collaboration & Brand Stewardship
• Work closely with the Director of Marketing & Communication to ensure brand consistency and strategic alignment
• Coordinate with campus ministry staff, advancement team members, and external vendors as needed
• Uphold and communicate the mission and values of SJCNC in all materials

Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism, English, or related field
• 2-4 years of professional writing or communications experience (advancement or nonprofit experience preferred)
• Excellent writing, editing, and interviewing skills
• Strong understanding of donor-centered fundraising communication
• Practicing Catholic who understands and supports the mission of St. John's Catholic Newman Center
• Ability to translate spiritual impact into clear, compelling storytelling
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple deadlines

Desired Attributes
• Passion for evangelization and forming young adults in the faith
• Strong relational skills and ability to conduct meaningful interviews
• Strategic thinker with creative instincts
• Comfortable collaborating across departments

Why This Role Matters
This position plays a critical role in ensuring that the life-changing work of SJCNC is communicated clearly and compellingly to those who make it possible. Through thoughtful storytelling and strategic messaging, the Advancement Communications Specialist helps invite others into the mission of forming disciples for Christ during their time in college, and equipping them to live it out for the rest of their lives.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
The anticipated salary range for this position is $45,000-$55,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package is provided. Salary flexibility may be considered for candidates with significant capital campaign and major gifts leadership experience. Relocation assistance and professional development support may be available.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
St. John's Catholic Newman Center is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws and guidelines.

About the Employer

St. John's Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign exists to equip college students for sustaining a lifelong connection to Christ and His Church, through the sacraments and a vibrant, inviting community. As one of the largest and most active Newman Centers in the nation, St. John's Catholic Newman Center is comprised of St. John's Chapel and Newman Hall, a 586-bed private certified student housing facility.