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Advancement Communications Specialist

St. John's Catholic Newman Center, Urbana, IL, United States


The mission of St. John’s Catholic Newman Center is to equip college students for a lifelong connection with Christ and His Church through the sacraments and a vibrant, inviting community. 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. Summary of Position 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. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, English, or related field Highly organized and able to manage multiple deadlines and concurrent projects Ability to translate spiritual impact into clear, compelling storytelling Practicing Catholic who understands and is passionate about the mission of St. John’s Catholic Newman Center Strong understanding of donor-centered fundraising communication Excellent writing, editing, and interviewing skills Ability to coordinate with outside vendors including design, print, and mail production 2–4 years of professional writing or communications experience (advancement or nonprofit experience preferred) Key Responsibilities Write and produce annual giving materials, including appeals, impact reports, case statements, stewardship pieces, and digital campaigns Uphold and communicate the mission and values of SJCNC in all materials Coordinate with campus ministry staff, advancement team members, and external vendors as needed Work closely with the Director of Marketing & Communication to ensure brand consistency and strategic alignment Alumni & Donor Communications Plan, write, and edit alumni newsletters (print and digital) Assist with messaging for major gift and capital campaign efforts as needed Collaborate with advancement staff to ensure communications align with campaign strategy and donor segmentation Develop messaging and creative content for seasonal and special fundraising initiatives Storytelling & Content Development Identify, interview, and write mission-oriented stories of: Maintain a consistent voice that reflects both Catholic identity and relational warmth Craft personalized donor stories and profiles that highlight generosity and mission alignment Develop donor stewardship communications that clearly demonstrate gift impact Collaboration & Brand Stewardship Ensure all messaging is donor-centric, emphasizing transformation and partnership in mission Collaborate with campus ministry staff to capture stories of spiritual growth, discipleship, and vocational discernment Donors whose generosity fuels the mission Current students impacted by campus ministry Alumni living out their Catholic faith in parish, family, and professional life The anticipated salary range for this position is $40,000 – $50,000, 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. Position Status Full-Time, On-Site 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. To apply, send cover letter and resume to jobs@sjcnc.org #J-18808-Ljbffr