About this role
Job Description – Scholarship and Donation Coordinator Organization: Dakota Economic Development Corporation (DEDC) Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Location: DEDC Headquarters, Fort Thompson, SD FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Scholarship and Donation Coordinator is a vital position within the Dakota Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), responsible for managing our scholarship and donation initiatives that support community development and economic growth. This role serves as the primary point of contact for all inquiries related to scholarships and donations, ensuring efficient processing and compliance with organizational standards. The successful candidate will oversee the entire intake process, prepare files for committee review, and facilitate approval processes, contributing to the effective deployment of resources that benefit both the organization and the community.
Key Responsibilities
1. Application Intake & Management o Serve as the first point of contact for scholarship and donation requests, providing exceptional customer service and guidance to applicants. o Manage the receipt, logging, and initial review of all incoming applications, ensuring timely and accurate processing. 2. Documentation Compliance o Proactively communicate with applicants to ensure all required materials are submitted accurately and on time. o Verify the completeness and compliance of application files before they advance to the review stage, maintaining high standards of integrity and thoroughness. 3. Processing & Preparation o Organize and prepare comprehensive application packets for internal approval committees, summarizing necessary data to facilitate efficient decision-making. o Ensure all documentation is meticulously compiled and clearly presented for review and approval. 4. Communication & Engagement o Maintain professional and timely correspondence with applicants, donors, and internal stakeholders regarding the status of requests and applications. o Foster positive relationships with community members to enhance the reputation and effectiveness of DEDC’s scholarship and donation programs, aligning them with organizational goals.
o Responsible for all department communications regarding the program, including social media postings and advertisements. 5. Data Integrity & Record Management o Maintain accurate records of all scholarship awards and donation requests within the organization’s database, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and internal policies. o Regularly audit data to ensure integrity and accuracy, implementing improvements as necessary. 6. Administrative Support & Coordination o Assist in the coordination of review meetings, ensuring all necessary materials are prepared in advance to facilitate productive discussions. o Provide administrative support to the scholarship and donation programs, ensuring their smooth operation and alignment with DEDC’s objectives. 7. Management of Summer Youth Program o Oversee and coordinate the Summer Youth Program, ensuring its successful execution and alignment with organizational goals. 8. Background Check & Valid Driver’s License o Successfully pass a background check and maintain a valid driver’s license to facilitate program activities and community engagement. 9. Assistance with Other DEDC Projects o Assist with all other DEDC projects and initiatives as needed to support organizational goals and objectives.
Qualifications
• Required: o High school diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Communications, Program Management, or a related field preferred. o Proven experience in administrative support, program coordination, or a related role. o Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple workflows simultaneously. o Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively. o Proficiency in office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace) and experience with database management or CRM systems. o High level of integrity and capability to handle confidential information with discretion. o Ability to pass a background check and possess a valid driver’s license. • Preferred: o Experience working within a for-profit organization or in economic development. o Familiarity with grant-making or scholarship management platforms. o Strong organizational skills with a focus on process improvement and efficiency.
Core Competencies
• Customer Service & Community Engagement • Attention to Detail & Accuracy • Organizational & Time Management Skills • Data Management & Compliance Awareness • Effective Communication & Interpersonal Skills • Administrative Support & Coordination • Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
Work Environment & Travel
• Primarily onsite at DEDC Headquarters. • Occasional travel may be required for community engagement or training purposes.
Salary & Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience, with offers competitive based on qualifications. An attractive benefits package includes:
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. • 401(k) retirement plan with company match. • Generous vacation and paid leave policies. • Opportunities for professional development and training.
Tribal Preference Policy
In accordance with DEDC policy, Tribal Preference applies to this position:
1. A member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe.
2. A descendant of a member or members of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. 3. A member of another federally recognized tribe.
Preference applies to hiring, promotion, training, and layoffs if candidates meet minimum qualifications.
Among equally qualified candidates, the most suitable in the preference category will be selected DOE