The Organization
Southwest Baptist University (SBU) is a private Christian liberal arts university with a current enrollment of about 2,400 undergraduate and graduate students, offering more than 100 areas of academic study at undergraduate and graduate levels through four physical campuses in Bolivar (the main campus), Mountain View, Salem and Springfield, MO., plus SBU Worldwide, an emerging online campus offering entire online degree programs. Their strategic plan motto is “Students First” and is focused on helping students BELONG, DISCOVER, SERVE, and EXCEL.
Established in 1878, SBU is affiliated with the Missouri Baptist Convention and is committed to being a Christ-centered, caring, academic community that integrates faith into all aspects of campus life. With a diverse student body and a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, SBU offers rigorous academic programs in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. The University's mission is to prepare students to be servant leaders in a global society, emphasizing academic excellence, servant leadership, and Christian values. SBU's campus in Bolivar boasting about 900 undergraduate students spans over 150 acres and features facilities for academics, athletics, and student life. Through its commitment to faith, excellence, and community, SBU strives to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
The Opportunity
SBU seeks a Director of Development/Assistant Vice President to join their Advancement team. The ideal candidate will have a heart for Christian higher education, share a deep faith in Jesus, and have an entrepreneurial approach to fundraising. This individual must have a strong grasp of Biblical stewardship. Living in or near Bolivar, MO will help this individual be successful but is not required. They might also live in Springfield, Kansas City, St. Louis, or another major metropolitan area in proximity to SBU alumni. Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement, they will be responsible for establishing a new portfolio and engaging current and new donors.
WHO THEY ARE
MISSION & VISION
MISSION: Southwest Baptist University is a Christ-centered, caring academic community preparing students to be servant leaders in a global society.
VISION: By its sesquicentennial in 2028, Southwest Baptist University will be a regional institution of choice, known for its transformational student outcomes, excellent return on financial investment, and its vibrant campus culture.
SBU accomplishes this mission by attracting and retaining faculty and staff that embrace the "caring academic community" distinctive of the SBU experience. SBU is focused on helping each student BELONG (cultivating strong community), DISCOVER (skills and vocational ambitions), SERVE (learning to lead in all areas of life), and EXCEL (leaving ready to lead).
Purpose of the University
In light of its mission and vision, the purpose of Southwest Baptist University is to equip its graduates, embodied in our tagline “Ready to Lead,” with the following:
a value system that is founded on a biblical worldview.
a commitment to Christ which equips them to engage with others in a diverse world.
practices to promote holistic wellness.
an understanding of scientific inquiry and processes which allows them to evaluate the validity of scientific methodology.
an understanding of how the past impacts present societal structures which shape individuals, cultures, and civilizations.
the ability to communicate effectively through reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
the enrichment of the human spirit provided through the visual and performing arts.
an ability to think creatively and critically to engage in research, problem-solving, and life-long learning.
Core Values
In fulfilling the University’s mission and vision through its strategic planning process, Southwest Baptist University is committed to upholding the following core values grounded in Scripture, guided particularly by I Corinthians 13, to prepare servant-leaders for a global society:
Christian Distinctiveness (1 Peter 2:9)
Southwest Baptist University is Christ-centered. From its inception, and continuing today, the University is a distinctively Christian and Baptist institution with a biblical worldview. Led by the Holy Spirit, following the example of Jesus Christ, the University community seeks to demonstrate commitment to love, mercy, and grace.
Baptist Heritage (1 Kings 8:57; 2 Timothy 1:14)
Southwest Baptist University’s academic foundations are built on historical Southern Baptist traditions beginning with the Southwest Missouri Baptist Association and continuing today with the Missouri Baptist Convention. This heritage acknowledges God as the ultimate source of all knowledge and truth. It is committed to scholarly endeavor, under God, seeking a proper balance between academic freedom and academic responsibility.
Compassion and Care for SBU Family (Romans 12:9-10)
Southwest Baptist University is a caring community. Scripture teaches that all individuals are worthy in the eyes of God. Therefore, we will honor and serve one another in love.
Academic Excellence (Romans 12:2; Colossians 3:23)
Southwest Baptist University is an academic community. The University pursues excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. Students are prepared to meet the challenges of a global society through the integration of Christian faith, liberal arts, research, and professional studies. The University recognizes that academic excellence is achieved through continuously striving for improvement.
Social and Spiritual Development (Colossians 2:6-7)
Southwest Baptist University encourages the social and spiritual development of the University community. Students, faculty, and staff are provided intentional opportunities to grow spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally through exposure and response to the needs of the larger community.
Personal Wellness (Genesis 1:27; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
Southwest Baptist University recognizes the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, the University offers opportunities for education and activities which promote personal wellness.
CHRIST-CENTERED: SBU is committed to its Christian identity and integrates faith into all aspects of campus life, including academics, service, and community engagement.
As a Christian liberal arts school, SBU provides both breadth and depth. Breadth is offered across the curriculum with coursework in the arts, sciences, and humanities, with the goal of preparing students for life. Depth is provided through the major, which focuses on preparation for work in a specific field. The Christian lens is the primary lens for learning. Breadth and depth in a Christian liberal arts setting focuses on critical thinking so that non-biblical perspectives are examined (but not endorsed) so that students are prepared to serve Christ in whatever careers or interests they pursue.
Academic Excellence: The University is dedicated to providing high-quality education that prepares students for success in their chosen fields and equips them with critical thinking skills and a lifelong love of learning.
Servant Leadership: SBU emphasizes the importance of servant leadership, encouraging students to serve others selflessly and make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.
Community: SBU fosters a supportive and welcoming community where students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to develop meaningful relationships, collaborate, and support one another in their personal and academic growth, no matter where they stand in their faith journey.
Integrity: The University values honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior in all aspects of campus life, promoting a culture of trust, respect, and accountability.
Missouri Baptist Convention (MBC).
SBU is affiliated with the MBC. The MBC provides financial support for the University and elects the 25-member board of trustees which governs the institution.
The Missouri Baptist Convention approved plans in 1964 for the college to become a senior liberal arts college. The first baccalaureate degrees were awarded in 1967. In 1981, the college name changed to Southwest Baptist University. In 1995, the University entered a joint nursing education agreement with St. John's Regional Medical Center in Springfield, Mo., to form St. John’s School of Nursing of SBU, now known as the SBU Mercy College of Health Professions, a partnership that continues to expand with other health and education partners in Southwest Missouri.
LEADERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS
Richard J. Melson, Ph.D.,
President
Richard J. Melson, Ph.D., was elected the 26th President of Southwest Baptist University by the Board of Trustees on Aug. 19, 2021, and began his service as President on Sept. 7, 2021. SBU celebrated his inauguration on March 2, 2022. Dr. Melson brings more than 25 years of transformational leadership to SBU’s administrative team. He has a passion for equipping the next generation of servant leaders to impact the world for Christ. He joined SBU from Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio, where he served as Vice President for Advancement and Associate Professor of Business Administration since July 2016.
He earned his doctoral degree in leadership studies from Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Melson holds a master’s degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a bachelor of arts degree from Murray State University. He also has completed post-doctoral studies at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education in educational management and advancement leadership.
Leon C. Wirth, M.A.
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Leon C. Wirth began as Vice President for Advancement at SBU in February 2023, serving as the chief development officer for the University to advise the President on the University’s advancement efforts as well as community and donor relations. He serve as a member of the Executive Cabinet.
“It is one of the greatest honors of my life to serve at Southwest Baptist University. My four years at SBU were life-changing. I learned who I really was. I made lifelong friends in fellow students, faculty and staff. And I discovered skills and passions that have shaped my family, personal ministry, and entire career. And best of all, I met and married Michelle (Falcone) '93, my wife of nearly 31 years. Bolivar has always been special to us; we married here, Michelle's family has lived here since the late 80s, our oldest daughter Hannah (Wirth) Herup graduated from SBU in 2018, and my mom and stepdad retired to Bolivar from St. Louis in 2019. I pray my contributions will help SBU continue to provide robust, transformational experiences like mine to generations of future Bearcats.”
Education:
B.A. in Communication and Public Relations, Southwest Baptist University
M.A. in Communications, Wheaton College Graduate School
1993 Southwest Baptist University Life Beautiful Award Recipient
Previous work experience:
Campaign Director and Regional Director of Development, Wheaton College
Vice President of Education and Outreach, International Fellowship of Christians and Jews
Executive Director of Family Ministries, Focus on the Family
Director of Communications, Marketing, Member Services, and Development, Christian Booksellers Association
To meet the entire Executive Cabinet, CLICK HERE.
THEIR STORY
Founded in 1878, SBU is a Christian liberal arts university offering more than 100 areas of academic study at undergraduate and graduate levels in health professions, humanities, arts, business, professional programs, and natural and applied sciences. SBU offers access to these programs via four physical campuses in Bolivar (the main campus), Springfield (focused on nursing and health science programs leading to nursing, radiography and health science associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees), Mountain View, and Salem, as well as fully online degree programs via SBU Worldwide, an online campus.
Southwest Baptist University first opened its doors in Lebanon, Mo., as Southwest Baptist College. In 1879, the college was chartered by the state of Missouri and moved to Bolivar. Early writings recount a legacy of sacrificial giving and extraordinary efforts by Baptists in southwest Missouri to establish and maintain the college. The founders, Abner S. Ingman and James R. Maupin, faced many difficulties as they rode horseback seeking funds, students and an ideal college site.
The college faced many hardships in its early years and actually closed from 1910-13 to regain financial solvency and to recover from a devastating fire that destroyed the college’s only building. The efforts and prayers of area supporters and Missouri Baptists brought results, and the college reopened in 1913 as a two-year junior college.
From its inception, the University has been a distinctively Christian and Baptist institution in terms of a Christian worldview and ideological commitments, and maintained its strong Baptist heritage through its affiliation with the Missouri Baptist Convention. The MBC provides financial support for the University and elects the 25-member board of trustees which governs the institution.
The Missouri Baptist Convention approved plans in 1964 for the college to become a senior liberal arts college. The first baccalaureate degrees were awarded in 1967. In 1981, the college name changed to Southwest Baptist University. In 1995, the University entered a joint nursing education agreement with St. John's Regional Medical Center in Springfield, Mo., to form St. John’s School of Nursing of SBU, now known as the SBU Mercy College of Health Professions, a partnership that continues to expand with other health and education partners in Southwest Missouri.
Consistent with enrollment trends across higher education in Missouri, SBU's enrollment peaked in 2012. Over the last four years, SBU has navigated the pandemic and other challenges to an average of about 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled annually. The 152-acre main campus is located in the southern portion of Bolivar, a community of about 11,000 residents that serves as the county seat of Polk County. Bolivar is located about 25 miles north of Springfield, which is the third-largest city in the state of Missouri after St. Louis and Kansas City.
ABOUT BOLIVAR, MO
Bolivar, Missouri presents a charming blend of small-town warmth and modern conveniences with around 11,000 people, making it an inviting destination for potential residents. With a tight-knit community where neighbors often know each other by name, Bolivar offers a friendly atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging.
Affordability is a key feature, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The town is home to Southwest Baptist University, enriching the area with educational opportunities and cultural diversity. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore nearby, with scenic lakes and nature trails just a short drive away.
Bolivar's thriving small business community adds to its character, providing unique shopping and dining experiences. Quality healthcare facilities ensure residents' well-being, while its central location within Missouri offers easy access to other major cities. Overall, Bolivar boasts a high quality of life with safe neighborhoods, good schools, and a range of amenities to suit diverse interests and lifestyles.
Parks and Lakes
Bolivar offers residents and visitors several parks and lakes to enjoy outdoor recreation and natural beauty. While the city itself is not directly situated on a major lake, there are several nearby options for those looking to spend time outdoors:
Pomme de Terre Lake: Located about 30 miles north of Bolivar, Pomme de Terre Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The lake covers over 7,800 acres and offers picturesque views amidst the Ozark hills. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, water skiing, and picnicking along its shores.
Stockton Lake: Approximately 45 miles southwest of Bolivar lies Stockton Lake, another scenic reservoir known for its clear waters and abundant fish species. The lake spans over 25,000 acres and offers opportunities for boating, sailing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Several campgrounds and picnic areas are available for visitors to relax and soak in the natural surroundings.
Bolivar City Parks: Within the city limits, Bolivar maintains several parks and green spaces for residents to enjoy. One notable park is Dunnegan Memorial Park, which features walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. It's a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts to gather and unwind.
While Bolivar itself may not have a major lake within its boundaries, its proximity to Pomme de Terre Lake and Stockton Lake provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Title: Director of Development or Assistant Vice President
Department: Advancement
Working Relationships: Reports to the Vice President for Advancement
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: Flexible Remote with a preference for someone in Bolivar, Springfield, Kansas City, or St. Louis, Missouri.
SUMMARY
The Director of Development serves as a development officer for Southwest Baptist University by cultivating relationships with various SBU Alumni, parents, organizations, and friends who are most strategic to charitably funding Southwest Baptist University’s mission.
RESPONSIBILITES
Intentional Cultivation: Develop strategic plans with VP to advance assigned and potential relationships through stages of the development cycle: discovery, engagement, proposal, closure, and stewardship. Create a relationship development plan for each individual in an assigned portfolio that is updated and reported regularly.
Portfolio & Performance Management: Develops and administers portfolio management system (with VP for Advancement) to be used by all gift officers that includes goals and strategies for donor research, donor development, wealth screenings, recommends assignments, and the tracking, measuring, and reporting of key performance indicators.
Thoughtful Donor Engagement: Discern current and potential donors’ interest in SBU’s mission so that it may be contextually expressed and givers may be meaningfully involved. This is accomplished through individual meetings each year and is leveraged by campus events, regional engagement events, and service opportunities for SBU.
Expand SBU Expertise: Develops competence in discussing with constituents all key SBU funding priorities, campus developments, tools, and resources through team-initiated and self-initiated learning, including developing relationships with SBU faculty and staff.
Represent SBU: Interacts in gracious and meaningful ways as a key SBU representative with members of the campus community, Bolivar community, and the larger external SBU family.
Strategic Proposals: Present and close an agreed-upon number of proposals for major gifts to SBU. Proposals will include both outright and planned gifts.
Future Pipeline: Identify and become familiar with individuals in around the nation who could become future major donors by engaging with them in the early stages of their giving relationship with SBU.
Team Collaboration & Leadership: Supports the collegial team culture of the Advancement division by contributing to the planning and execution of tradition-building initiatives designed to engage current students, alumni, parents, donors, and friends of SBU in a life-long habit of engagement, prayer, and financial support.
Event Participation: Collaborate with Advancement teammates to plan and host the annual donor/student Scholarship Celebration luncheon, Homecoming, and annual Major Donors banquet, etc.
Foundations: As assigned, develops and maintains relationships with strategic philanthropic foundations and provides funding usage reports as required
Serves as a development officer in all development initiatives and campaigns
Assures the confidentiality of all donor relationships
Regular attendance and punctuality
Sets an example of a Christian lifestyle for students, staff and faculty
Commitment and adherence to Southwest Baptist University’s Principles and Expectations
Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
Bachelor’s degree
Two years of experience in fundraising, alumni relations and/or public relations.
Must maintain valid Driver’s License.
Must travel well
Preferred
Master’s degree
Five years of prior fundraising and management experience.
Desired Characteristics:
Character
Servant Leader
Strong faith
Entrepreneurial spirit and resourceful
Enthusiasm for Christian higher education
Outgoing and strong relationship builder
Demonstrate a strong work ethic and a high level of integrity.
Competence
Strong organizational and computer skills.
Communicate professionally, in written and verbal form, with alumni and donors and demonstrate excellent customer service with all constituents.
Strategic Communicator
Self-starter and able to work independently
Collaborative leader- able to work well with others
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Salary: A competitive salary will be discussed in personal interviews
Benefits: Click HERE for summary.
Vacation: 3 Days of Personal Time, 2 Weeks of Vacation, and 10 paid holidays, including the full week of Thanksgiving and, typically, the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day at the discretion of the President
Work Schedule: Opportunity for remote work with employer supplied technology.
Travel Expectations: Forty to fifty percent (40-50%). including evening and occasional weekend work. Regular visits to the Bolivar campus.
OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES
Opportunities
SBU has the amazing advantage of proven leaders who are positive and collaborative, many of whom have deep ties to the University. The Cabinet is led by a President with a clear vision for the University and excitement and proven skillset in Christian higher education fundraising.
SBU has developed a unique value proposition in how they care for students not only academically but also spiritually. The have honed a deep focus on students’ discipleship and not just academic performance.
30,000+ living SBU alumni ready to be engaged and gathered into a supportive community.
Challenges
Many donors have not been engaged deeply in a few years. While this is an opportunity, it will present a challenge to re-engage previous donors who may be slow to warm up to a new face.
Bolivar is a small town that worked hard to be the destination of choice when the founders selected a home in 1878. They love their hometown university, for nearly 150 years there has existed a symbiotic relationship between SBU and Bolivar. What is good for one is good for the other. But a variety of factors in recent years have strained some of those close connections in that supportive network. SBU leadership is working diligently to maintain, grow, and in some cases renew trust in the local community and, where needed, the broader SBU community.
Limited administrative support will be provided to the new Development Director. The role will require significant personal investment of time in order to tap the deep well of positive feelings towards SBU among its donor base and alumni.
In late 2021, a series of events prompted SBU’s primary accreditor, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), to place SBU into a temporary “Accredited (Probation)” status, pending review of University governance and academic freedom policies and practices. New SBU President Richard Melson worked with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and new administrators in his executive cabinet to fully address the areas of concern raised by the HLC over the next two years, resulting in clearer, stronger policies and practices. HLC finished their review of these changes in Spring 2023, and in November 2023 the HLC board officially reaffirmed Southwest Baptist University’s accreditation with no concerns, placing SBU on the Standard Pathway 10-Year accreditation cycle. However, work remains to build awareness among some confused or concerned donors and alumni that this difficult season is not only behind SBU, but that SBU came through the challenge stronger for the future.
If, after prayerfully reviewing this information, you believe this role fits you well, or if you know someone you would like to recommend, please contact:
Mykaelle “Myka” Boos
Executive Search Consultant
MISSION:LEADERSHIP
company main :: +1 (615) 422–0884
email :: Myka@missionleadership.org
linkedin :: www.linkedin.com/in/mykaboos