Office of Advancement
CIANDRA KOUKLIS
Assistant to Advancement/
Church Relations
Ciandra Kouklis graduated from William Jessup University in 2009. She then joined the Office of Advancement in 2013. Having worked and volunteered in offices, churches, schools and Christian non-profits, Ciandra’s experience made her uniquely qualified for her current position in a supportive role to Advancement. Additionally, she strongly believes in Jessup’s mission to educate transformational leaders for the glory of God and loves to represent Jessup as an alumna and staff member.
DES NELSON
University Advancement Officer
Des has come from the Financial Planning/Investing world to Jessup to serve in the Advancement Department. He brings 25 years of pastoral experience and currently serves as a USAR Chaplain (MAJ) with two overseas deployments. Des believes in connecting missional generosity to the work of building the Kingdom of God.
FLAVIA MICH
Associate Director of Advancement Services
Flavia Mich has served William Jessup University since 2012. Her passion for higher education came from her experience as a graduate student at a Christian university. Her technical role is a constant source for learning and professional growth. Flavia has witnessed God’s transforming power over the lives of students and staff members, and she is excited to be part of the wonderful Jessup journey!
HEATHER JONES
Annual Giving Coordinator
In 2014 Heather was hired as the Alumni/Parent Relations Officer but over the years her position has evolved as she made the decision to work part time in order to raise her family. She now serves as the Annual Giving Coordinator. “I can’t begin to express how Jessup has changed not only my life but the life of my family. Being a part of this team is such a blessing. It has been such an honor to watch the ways in which God has moved through the staff, students, alumni, parents and donors of this amazing university and I look forward to seeing what He has in store for the future!”
JILL SMITH
Advancement Services Data Coordinator
Jill comes to Jessup after working in private security and healthcare for over 12 years. Before that she worked in a variety of fields, from media to foster care. “I look forward to contributing in a supporting role, helping William Jessup University work towards their goals.
JIM JESSUP
Director of Church Relations
Jim Jessup is the grandson of William Jessup. Jim graduated from San Jose Bible College (now WJU) and was ordained into pastoral ministry in 1987. He received his master’s degree from Lincoln Christian Seminary in Illinois in 1991. He served as a pastor for 11 years and since 2003 he has been the Director of Church Relations for William Jessup University.
MARCIE LEMOS
Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
Marcie came to the Advancement team after serving 5 years at William Jessup University in finance, risk management, vendor relations and supervising the Jessup Campus Store and university front office. Marcie is the parent of two alums (Chris ’15 and Emily ’19) and she and her husband Fred attended San Jose Christian College years ago before the university’s move to Rocklin. Marcie has served in our surrounding communities through many business, church and philanthropic activities. Her passion for, and long history with, WJU makes her the perfect addition to the Advancement team as Director of Alumni and Parent Relations.
MIA DeVECCHIO
Donor Relations and Events Manager
Mia graduated from William Jessup University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Business. Her coursework concentrated in Marketing and she has always had an interest in Donor Relations. Mia has served in various departments, including as our Campus Store Manager, and has now transitioned into the Donor Relations and Event Manager position within the Advancement team. She is thankful for the opportunity to continue serving the Jessup community that she loves and to see Christ move in mighty ways!
ROENZ BALANGUE
Associate Director of Church Relations
Roenz graduated from William Jessup University with a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry (2017) and a Master of Arts in Leadership (2019). He comes to his current role after six years in church youth ministry. Roenz and his wife, Kayla, met as students and now both serve on staff for the university. “My passion is to see the local church thrive and see all generations grow in Christ, especially by helping the younger generation step into what God is calling them into.” Roenz hopes to be a blessing to those he comes into contact with on and off campus.
SHEILA HAUT
Advancement Communication Officer
Sheila brings over 25 years of professional corporate communications experience that has allowed her to recognize and value the importance of good communication and story-telling that resonates with a variety of audiences. Accurately and effectively sharing news and information in Christian higher education and how that impacts local communities and various business sectors is first and foremost. She also serves as editor of The Jessup Journal publication produced within the university’s Advancement Department.