WittKieffer is proud to partner with Georgia State University (GSU), a public research university in Atlanta, Georgia, as they seek a dynamic and strategic advancement professional who will serve as the institution's inaugural Associate Vice President for Principal Gifts (AVP).

The AVP will join a large and complex advancement operation for GSU, the most comprehensive higher education institution in the state, offering more than 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs spread across eleven academic colleges and schools with several thousand employees over six campuses. GSU has over 52,000 students, hailing from every county in Georgia, every state in the U.S., and 170 countries. GSU has an economic impact on the Atlanta economy of $2.92 billion annually.

Reporting to and working in close concert with Vice President for Advancement Cheryl Harrelson, President M. Brian Blake, and the Georgia State University Foundation Board of Trustees, this inaugural role will lead efforts to secure principal gifts of $1 million or more, fueling the university’s $600 million comprehensive campaign and advancing its standing as a national leader in student success, research, and innovation. The AVP will design and implement strategies to cultivate and solicit transformational gifts, manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors, and build enduring relationships through frequent in-person engagement. Responsibilities include developing customized proposals, stewarding donors, and collaborating across colleges and departments to align philanthropic priorities with institutional goals. Significant travel and participation in campaign events will be required to strengthen donor engagement and expand GSU’s reach.

Georgia State is nationally recognized for bold innovation and its commitment to student success, having eliminated achievement gaps and dramatically improved graduation rates. In fiscal year 2025, the university raised $136 million in new gifts and commitments, exceeding expectations and breaking records. This was, in part, due to a one-time $80 million contribution. The AVP will build on this success and play a critical role in shaping a campus-wide culture of philanthropy, mentoring colleagues, and fostering partnerships that yield impactful gifts. Developing a comprehensive principal gifts strategy will be essential as will engaging academic leaders, faculty, and volunteers to identify and cultivate transformational donors. Expanding the prospect pool and leveraging GSU’s growing reputation will accelerate fundraising success, while deep collaboration with partners across campus will ensure alignment and maximize opportunities. This position also offers the chance to help build a best-in-class advancement operation, inspiring innovation and creativity across the team.

The ideal candidate will bring strategic leadership, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a proven record of securing principal-level gifts. A bachelor’s degree and seven or more years of professional experience are required, along with documented success in donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship at the major and principal gift levels. Preferred qualifications include experience with comprehensive campaigns and work within complex organizations. This is a unique opportunity to shape Georgia State’s philanthropic future, drive transformative impact, and contribute to an inclusive, high-performing advancement culture.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile found at www.wittkieffer.com.

For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by February 27, 2026.

Applications, nominations and inquiries can be directed to Greg Duyck and Jevon Walton at GeorgiaStateAVP@wittkieffer.com.

Georgia State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.