Rocklin, Calif.- A retirement celebration will be held on Thursday, May 13 to honor William Jessup University President, Dr. Bryce Jessup for his 25 years of faithful service as president.
As the university”s fifth president, Jessup substantially improved its financial position, achieved regional accreditation, significantly increased enrollment and broadened the curriculum. The biggest change during his tenure was moving the institution from a small, eight-acre campus in San Jose to a 128-acre campus in Rocklin, where it opened its doors to students in 2004.
‘Bryce has been a friend, mentor, partner and leader to me and so many others,’ explained Pat Gelsinger, EMC Corporation’s President and Chief Operating Officer of Information Infrastructure Products and current chairman of the university’s Board of Trustees. ‘Many thousands of lives have been affected by the life of this great man. His impact will be felt and honored for many decades to come.’
Jessup’s career is marked by his stellar involvement and contribution to cross-cultural and ethnic reconciliation ministry efforts which led the quarter century transition of an unaccredited Bible college to a Christian Liberal Arts university.
The university celebrates its 70th anniversary during the current academic year. Bryce Jessup’s father, William, started the institution in 1939, initially called San Jose Bible College and later renamed San Jose Christian College. Coinciding with its move to Rocklin, the name was changed to William Jessup University in honor of its founder.
The retirement celebration begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m. with Dr. and Mrs. Jessup. The dinner and program start at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person. Dress is business attire and seating is limited due to the popularity of this event.
