William Jessup Hires Tom Sasser as Chief Development Officer

Former UOP Administrator to Oversee Growing Fundraising Efforts

ROCKLIN, Calif. – William Jessup University has announced that Tom Sasser has joined the greater Sacramento area’s only residential four-year private university as chief development officer, effective November 26.

“We are overjoyed to have Tom join the team at William Jessup University,” said Jessup’s President, John Jackson. His extensive experience in the marketplace, ministry, and encouraging generous stewardship toward the kingdom of God makes him the ideal person to continue the growth of our University.”

The newest member of William Jessup’s executive team, Sasser hails from the University of the Pacific where he served as the assistant dean of development for the School of Engineering and Computer Science. In this role, Sasser and his team elevated fundraising production by 120 percent while on their way to realizing a university-wide campaign of $300 million.

Previous Role

Prior to working for the University of the Pacific, Sasser was director of development at Life Pacific College in Southern California. He was responsible for the design and execution of a $12 million capital campaign, managing staff, volunteer involvement, prospective donor development, and Board of Trustee engagement.

Preceding Sasser’s successful fundraising career, he served as associate pastor at Christian Assembly Church for six years, where he was responsible for leadership and program development, teaching, community outreach, and event management.

Fundraising Focus

At William Jessup, Sasser will be responsible for executing a comprehensive yet diversified fundraising plan, overseeing the growing university’s development program; administering and managing all development and fundraising, alumni affairs, and marketing, as well as church, community, donor, and media relations.

Sasser is a motivated leadership professional skilled in promoting vision, leveraging networks and maximizing assets for the accomplishment of organizational development goals.

“I am extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity to serve William Jessup University,” Sasser said. “It is such an honor to be given the chance to be a part of this historical time in the life of the University. It is going to be an exciting ride and I can’t wait to get started!”

Sasser has a master’s degree in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and a bachelor’s of science in organizational leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

William Jessup University has experienced expansive growth since it first moved to Rocklin in 2004. The university currently instructs more than 1,700 students and offers over 70 academic offerings, including masters and online programs.

Approximately 99 percent of William Jessup University students receive institutional aid.