Dear Ones —
I’m writing to share some bittersweet news. Jessica Cloud, our school’s Vice President for Advancement, is leaving Starr King for a new opportunity. On February 14, she’ll begin work as Vice President of Advancement at Coker University in Hartsville, South Carolina, a small liberal arts college with about 1,200 students.
For the past six and a half years, Jessica has built a robust fundraising program at Starr King, helping us move from annual fundraising of $394,000 in 2015 to nearly $1.2 million in 2021. Thanks to her, we’ve grown the school’s endowment to more than $7.8 million and doubled our alumni giving rate.
But these are just statistics; they don’t reflect Jessica’s high ethical standards, her tireless work ethic, and her sunny and optimistic spirit. She’s made friends for Starr King wherever she’s gone. Working with her has been one of the very best parts of my job, and I will miss her more than I can say.
Though her last official day will be February 11, Jessica has arranged with her new employer to serve in a consultative/advisory role at SKSM, helping to guide us to our next VP of Advancement. Please join me in congratulating Jessica, thanking her for a job well done, and sending her forth with our love and blessings!
Faithfully,
Rosemary
The Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt, President
Starr King School for the Ministry, Oakland CA
