“My Why:” Ed Jones

One of the things I love most about Jessup is the unique mission it carries. “In partnership with the church, we educate transformational leaders for the glory of God.” When I first learned about Jessup making the move from San Jose to the Greater Sacramento Region in 2004, I was ecstatic. Back in those early days, I was in the lending and banking industry managing a portfolio of over 100 ministries across Northern California. The idea that a kingdom-minded university was building relationships and laying down roots in this region was unprecedented. Making connections, providing resources, not only for students, but to the church and surrounding community, represented a win for everyone. That still holds true today.

Jessup not only provides resources to our local churches by training and supporting leaders, it offers educational resources and fosters collaboration that strengthens the local and global church. Jessup offers a transformative education, fueled by outreach programs and local partnerships to develop future leaders who can make a positive difference in today’s marketplace. As a native Californian, I’m proud to say that Jessup is producing leaders with values that can allow our Golden State to flourish as they fill positions to strategically guide the fourth largest economy in the world. That’s a God-sized undertaking and one that we know can happen when He guides our steps. 

As I return to Jessup in my new role as vice president of advancement, I’m reminded of how this university feels like home. During my first day here, I walked across campus and heard faculty and staff lifting their voices in worship during a summer chapel session. Everyday, I sense God is at work in all of us and marvel as He demonstrates to me that Jessup is where He wants me to serve for this season. 

This campus holds a special place in my heart because it is where I earned my MBA as a graduate student and now, I’m the parent of a Jessup student as well. I’ve seen my son navigate opportunities that build him emotionally, spiritually and academically. He lights up when he talks about faculty that truly care for and shepherd him as a student. Many people don’t realize our faculty are the crown jewels on this campus and work tirelessly to support the growth of our students. 

This university is truly a gift and one in which I am incredibly grateful for. In essence, I want to be able to give back because of what Jessup has done for me. My “Why Jessup” drives me to do all I can to see Jessup be a bolder and brighter light, here in the great state of California and beyond. 

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