What are the steps for becoming a Director of Major gifts for a non-profit organization or University?
Asked by Proud to be an American! :)
I am a sophomore in college majoring in Public Relations and Minoring in Non-profit administration. Ultimately, my goal is to become the Director of Major gifts for a non-profit organization or University. I am aware that one must start at the bottom to get to the top.I am not sure where to begin. I would like to know what steps it will take to get to the top. Am I on the correct path?

Best Answer:
Yes, you are on the right path. Start looking for internship positions (even if you don't get paid) so you can gain experience. See if it is possible to work with the fundraising arm of the college you attend. You can also see if there are non-profits nearby who would be willing to hire an intern. I encourage you to look at larger non-profits that have fundraising departments, rather than those with one fundraiser who wears all the hats. If you want to specialize in major gifts, you can start in a variety of positions and move toward your specialty as you gain experience. Remember, fundraising and non-profit administration are recent additions to college courses, so many people who hold positions you are striving for did not have the opportunity to take these classes or follow the path you describe. Many major gift officers followed non-traditional paths. Hope this helps. Good luck.
20+ years as a fundraiser
Answered by Mel M

The major skills required of major gifts officerrs are the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors (stewardship), the ability to find new donors, capable and willing to make large donations (research), and the ability to know when and at what price to make the ask (solicitation). Knowledge of research tools to find find potential donors, analysis of financial records, and possession of social skills to cultivate relationships are critical to the success of a major gifts officer.
Answered by PiggiePants