Scholarship and Donation Coordinator

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