Vice President Institutional Advancement

• Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Langston University invites nominations and applications for the position of Vice President for Institutional Advancement (VPIA).

Founded in 1897 as the Colored Agricultural and Normal University, Langston University has the distinction of being the nation’s westernmost and Oklahoma’s only Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Now a public land-grant institution, the University comprises three campuses located in Langston, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City, with an instructional site in Ardmore. Grounded in its rich traditions as a historically Black University and a land-grant institution, Langston University offers quality post-secondary education to diverse populations through academic, research, community engagement, extension, and co-curricular experiences that lead to professional competence and degree completion.

The University offers over 40 undergraduate programs, five graduate programs, and one doctoral degree program across six academic schools. Langston proudly serves nearly 2,000 students, of whom 70% are first-generation college students. The University has a rich history of growth and development that emphasizes the perseverance and dedication of its administration, faculty, and students.

Reporting directly to President Ruth Ray Jackson , the VPIA will serve on the President’s Administrative Council as a member of the executive leadership team. As the University’s Chief Development Officer, the VPIA is responsible for directing all facets of Langston University’s fundraising, donor, and alumni relations. This position also serves as the Executive Director of the Langston University Foundation , the nonprofit fundraising and fund management entity supporting Langston University.

The VPIA supports the University in its teaching and scholarship mission by enhancing the University’s profile and by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors and industry partners whose contributions further that mission.

This new Vice President will provide innovative and strategic leadership for planning, implementation, and administration of comprehensive fundraising, foundation operations, and alumni initiatives on behalf of the University. The VPIA will strengthen Langston’s donor pipeline, particularly among alumni, corporate partners, and philanthropic foundations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Internally, the VPIA will lead and develop a committed team, setting clear goals and providing strategic direction, professional development, and resource alignment to support the University’s agenda.

The Vice President will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to Langston University by leading it to new levels of engagement with its external constituencies and even greater achievement in fundraising. Doing so will require the skills and experiences of a seasoned advancement leader, one with a significant track record in individual major and principal giving and experience in building or leading a team of fundraisers and alumni affairs professionals.

Langston seeks an accomplished, knowledgeable, and visionary leader with seven years of significant relevant experience, familiarity with applicable guidelines, and sound judgment.

This is a full-time, hybrid leadership position that offers significant remote work flexibility within the state of Oklahoma. Ideally, this position will be based out of either the Oklahoma City or Tulsa metro area.

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 below.

Witt Kieffer is assisting Langston University in this search. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until an appointment is made.