Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement (WSUFAE) is seeking an enthusiastic and strategic Associate Director of Alumni Engagement, Traditions and Celebrations to create meaningful experiences that strengthen alumni pride and foster lifelong connections to Wichita State University. This role leads the strategy and execution of signature alumni programs, traditions, reunions, recognition initiatives, and celebratory events, including 35 Under 35, Annual Reunion, watch parties, Shocker Pride Nationwide Tailgate, and Alumni Walkway stewardship. The Associate Director also oversees key student traditions and programming that build university pride and establish a strong foundation for future alumni engagement.
The ideal candidate is a collaborative relationship builder with strong event planning, project management, and volunteer engagement skills who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This position works closely with alumni, volunteers, campus partners, and internal teams to deliver memorable experiences, recognize alumni achievements, and expand opportunities for meaningful engagement. A bachelor's degree and at least three years of relevant experience are required, along with excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills. The successful candidate will demonstrate professionalism and a commitment to WSUFAE's core values of Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration, and Service, while bringing creativity and strategic thinking to programs that celebrate the Shocker community.
With a team of more than 50 dedicated individuals working to support fundraising and donor and alumni relationships, the WSUFAE is proud to champion the continued growth of Wichita State University. With over $450 million in managed assets and thousands of alumni spread around the world, it is an exciting time to be a part of advancing Shocker Nation.
The job duties for this position include: Traditions & Celebrations Strategy
Leads the development and execution of a comprehensive strategy for alumni traditions, celebratory programs, reunions, and affinity-building experiences.
Creates programming that strengthens alumni pride, university connection, and lifelong engagement.
Evaluates program outcomes and engagement metrics to inform future planning and continuous improvement.
Identifies opportunities to enhance and expand traditions that reflect the evolving needs and interests of alumni.
Signature Program Leadership
35 Under 35: Leads the annual nomination process, selection committee management, honoree stewardship, event planning, recognition activities, and post-program engagement strategies.
Annual Reunion: Serves as the primary strategist and coordinator for reunion planning, volunteer engagement, communications, and event execution.
Watch Parties: Oversees annual and seasonal watch party experiences, strengthening alumni connections through athletic and university-related engagement opportunities.
Shocker Pride Nationwide Tailgate: Leads planning, coordination, volunteer recruitment, and execution of the signature annual tailgate initiative across alumni networks.
Alumni Walkway: Oversees alumni recognition processes, stewardship activities, and associated celebration and dedication events.
Develops innovative opportunities to recognize alumni achievements and celebrate university milestones.
Alumni & Volunteer Relationship Management
Builds and sustains relationships with alumni volunteers, reunion committees, affinity groups, campus partners, and community stakeholders.
Recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who assist with engagement programs and signature events.
Collaborates with Development to identify highly engaged alumni with leadership and philanthropic potential.
Serves as a primary liaison for alumni traditions and celebration-related programming.
Student Traditions & Campus Engagement
Oversees alumni engagement within key student traditions and transitional experiences, ensuring alignment with…