Job Information
Michigan State University(MSU) Community Events Coordinator / Project/Event Coordinator in East Lansing, Michigan
Working/Functional Title
Community Events Coordinator
Position Summary
BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a key member of the University Advancement (UA) Events Team, the Advancement Events Community Events Coordinator is responsible for applying experiential event and marketing best practices to help expand MSU's alumni and donor reach through partnerships with 80+ alumni communities. This role requires a team player who communicates openly, collaborates effectively, and demonstrates trust in teammates' abilities to complete their work. Additionally, the candidate should be open to new and innovative ideas, coachable, and committed to contributing to a healthy team environment.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Volunteer Management:
• Builds trust with regional volunteers and alumni relations staff to form mutually beneficial relationships that support MSU's mission.
• Develops, promotes, and executes an annual grant-making program that provides financial support for alumni-community events in alignment with MSU's fundraising priorities.
• Advises regional volunteers on event strategy to increase attendance, manage expenses, and increase guest satisfaction.
• Secures regional event guest data for inclusion in University Advancement's customer relations management system.
• Conducts post-event evaluations with regional volunteers to assess success and identify opportunities for continual improvement.
Marketing and Communications:
• Develops copy, graphics, and marketing materials in alignment with MSU brand standards to support volunteer-led alumni-community events.
• Coordinates with regional volunteers and internal team members to promote alumni-community events through MSU-managed channels.
• Coordinates with University administrators, faculty, and internal team members to update on progress toward event objectives.
• Provides support to the Advancement Events communications team as needed.
Event Management:
• Works collaboratively to advise on engaging guest experiences.
• Advises volunteers on working with external contractors and vendors involved in event production.
• Provides on-site support as needed during event programming.
• Assists in the development and execution of University Advancement events as needed.
Other:
• Collaborates with alumni and donor volunteers on committees engaged in initiatives on behalf of University Advancement.
• Maintains and enhances knowledge of computer and systems relevant to the planning and execution of University Advancement events.
• Contributes actively to creating a healthy work culture by fostering teamwork, open communication, and trust among team members.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Direction is received from the Advancement Events director.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
None
IMPACT ON PROGRAMS -- SERVICES -- OPERATIONS
Decisions made in the planning and execution of MSU-related events can significantly influence the University's reputation and standing among donors, alumni, and external communities. Errors in judgment may have adverse effects on the University's future resources and overall integrity.
Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills
Knowledge equivalent to that which would normally be acquired in a four year college degree in Public Relations, Communications, Business or in an area related to the work being performed; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible and expansive work experience in a field related to the position including planning and managing special events; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. May requir