My Why: Bonnie Gore

Commending Jessup for Delivering Servant Leaders in Placer County and Beyond

Placer County District 1 Supervisor Bonnie Gore has long been a passionate advocate for economic development, fiscal sustainability, public safety and positive collaboration between local jurisdictions. What some may not know is her steadfast commitment to the success of Jessup University. Gore is no stranger to the University, having previously served on its Board of Trustees for nine years, after a one-year hiatus, she is back and currently serving as Chair. Gore recognizes Jessup as a vital engine for workforce development and innovation in the region. She champions the University’s programs not only for their academic rigor, but for the tangible impact its graduates have on the local economy.

“When I met Dr. Jackson for the first time, his vision for the University spoke directly to my heart,” Gore said. “Developing leaders who understand servant leadership, the value of leading with integrity and being willing to work through hard conversations is so important to our communities.”

One of the things Gore loves most about Jessup is that it is unequivocally Christian. “The idea that Jessup is Christ-centered is non-negotiable,” she said. “That core component will always remain and as a Board member, it is of utmost importance. I want parents to feel confident that their kids will get a biblically integrated education. That is simply part of Jessup’s DNA.” 

From skilled technicians and healthcare workers to small business owners and civic leaders, Jessup alumni are woven into the fabric of the region’s progress. For Gore, supporting Jessup isn’t just good policy, it’s an investment in Placer County’s future. 

“Jessup brings so much to our area. From the ways faculty and staff serve our local churches and nonprofits to how the campus operates as a regional resource for business. Jessup is a place where people can gather together and work on similar issues. It’s a place to facilitate conversations about topics ranging from workforce development to regional charter schools.” 

Jessup students and alumni continue to demonstrate their value to the local workforce. “I’m always recommending Jessup students to our business leaders,” Gore added. “They are thoughtful, make decisions with integrity, tend to be fast learners and have an entrepreneurial spirit. Just the other day I went to a pop-up coffee cart in downtown Roseville run by two Jessup grads.”

Gore continued, “We have several Jessup interns and graduates currently working in our County offices and four recent graduates are employed with our state legislature. Also, many pastoral leaders are alumni and numerous teachers in our schools have received a Jessup education.” 

Gore is also passionate about mentorship. In 2019, she founded the Female Leadership And Mentor Exchange (FLAME) program. FLAME seeks to advance and empower next generation female leaders by creating and encouraging mentor relationships between women in executive level leadership roles with young women attending college or beginning a career. Over the years, Jessup students have participated in the program, many finding and plugging into their career callings as a result.  

WIth students and alumni actively contributing to Placer County’s economy and community life, Gore sees the partnerships between Jessup and the region as essential to building a stronger, more connected future for all. 

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