Director of Philanthropy & Community Engagement

About Fort Worth Academy At Fort Worth Academy, we believe philanthropy is about far more than fundraising—it is about inviting people to invest in possibility. We are an independent K–8 school that empowers young people to think critically, lead with empathy, and collaborate effectively to become the innovators and problem solvers of tomorrow. Through our signature Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Innovation (ELI) initiative, Gold Standard Project-Based Learning, and highly personalized approach, students learn to know themselves, think deeply, create boldly, influence positively, and lead courageously. As we continue to build on a strong foundation—including a successful debt‑free capital campaign, a growing endowment, and an ambitious vision for the future—we are seeking an exceptional leader to help tell our story and inspire others to invest in it. The Opportunity We're looking for someone who loves building relationships, telling meaningful stories, and connecting generous people with a mission that changes lives. The Director of Philanthropy & Community Engagement serves as the school's chief advancement leader, reporting directly to the Head of School and serving on the Leadership Team. This individual will lead the school's comprehensive advancement program while cultivating authentic relationships that strengthen our community and advance the mission of Fort Worth Academy. Skills and Responsibilities You are first and foremost a relationship builder. You possess exceptional emotional intelligence, communicate with authenticity, think strategically, and enjoy bringing people together around a meaningful mission. You are entrepreneurial, organized, collaborative, and inspired by the opportunity to help shape the future of an innovative school. Develop and implement a comprehensive advancement strategy aligned with the school's strategic plan. Lead the Annual Fund, major gifts, endowment growth, and future campaign initiatives. Cultivate and steward relationships with parents, grandparents, alumni, foundations, corporations, and community partners. Partner closely with the Head of School and Board of Trustees to grow a culture of philanthropy. Collaborate with admissions and marketing to tell the Fort Worth Academy story through compelling communications and donor engagement. Plan and oversee donor cultivation, stewardship, alumni, and community engagement events. Identify new opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, and philanthropic investment. Why Fort Worth Academy? Relationships come first at Fort Worth Academy. Students are known. Teachers are empowered. Innovation is encouraged. Leadership is practiced. Curiosity is celebrated. This is an opportunity to become one of the school's primary storytellers and help build a culture of generosity that will shape generations of Trailblazers. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred. Five or more years of advancement, philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, or related experience. Demonstrated success in donor cultivation, stewardship, and fundraising strategy. Outstanding writing, communication, presentation, and organizational skills. Experience working with volunteer boards and committees is preferred. How to Apply Please submit to View email address on click.appcast.io your résumé along with a one‑page letter describing a relationship you have built that inspired someone to invest in a meaningful mission or strengthened an organization or community. We're interested not only in what you've accomplished, but in how you build trust, cultivate generosity, and bring people together around a shared purpose. #J-18808-Ljbffr National Association of Independent Schools