Bayside Pastor to become William Jessup President

Rocklin, Calif.- William Jessup University today announced that Dr. John Jackson will become the sixth President of the University, the Greater Sacramento region’s only accredited private four-year, residential university.

Dr. Jackson, 49, currently is Executive Director of Thriving Churches International and Executive Pastor at Bayside Church in Granite Bay, Calif. He holds a PhD in Educational Administration and Organizational studies from the University of California at Santa Barbara and is author of several books on leadership, communication, and church ministry. He is the Founding Pastor of LifePoint Church in Northern Nevada. He also has served as an adjunct faculty member both at Tozer Theological Seminary and Simpson University.
 
“We are delighted to have John take on leadership of William Jessup University as we build on the institution’s tremendous growth since the relocation of the main campus to Rocklin,” said Pat Gelsinger, Chairman of William Jessup’s Board of Trustees. “John brings a strong track record in leadership development, innovation and financial management as the University continues to fulfill the need for Christian higher education in Northern California.”
 
William Jessup University, was founded in 1939 as San Jose Bible College, and relocated its main campus to Rocklin in 2004, when it was renamed after William Jessup, who founded San Jose Bible College. The university currently serves over 750 students, more than double the number it served in San Jose.  
 
The selection of Dr. Jackson follows a national search that brought over 250 applicants. The appointment comes after the retirement of former President Bryce Jessup, who served as president for 25 years and currently holds the position of President Emeritus.
 
Dr. Jackson will take office beginning on March 23, 2011.
 
“This university has the faculty, students and community support to continue to expand Christian higher education in Northern California,” Dr. Jackson said. “I am honored to lead William Jessup University and remain focused on Christ-centered higher education for students. William Jessup’s students have gone on to impact not only our state, but our entire country and world in part because of the excellent training they received at the university.”
 
Dr. Jackson has also served as an associate trainer with Equip (the non-profit ministry of Dr. John Maxwell) and has trained pastors, CEO’s and other business leaders, along with meeting with members of Parliament and the Kenyan legal society, in addition to being a Purpose Driven Church trainer in Kenya.
 
William Jessup University is a Christian Liberal Arts University situated on a 128-acre campus in Rocklin, California. The University is currently working on a $25 million expansion project for student housing, athletic, dining, music and banquet facilities.
 
“With John’s vision and passion, he is an excellent choice to succeed me,” said Bryce Jessup.  “I’m committed to do all that I can to assist him during this transition and look forward to our partnership together.”