ROCKLIN, CA – The Jessup University Athletic Department today announced that Dakota Spillers, the department's Assistant Athletic Director for Business Operations, will be leaving his position to return to Western New Mexico University as the Associate Athletic Director of Communications and Advancement. Spillers previously served as the Assistant Athletics Director for Communications and Internal Operations at Western New Mexico, and his return marks an exciting new chapter in his career.

Over the past three years, Dakota has been an integral part of growing the athletics department in many facets, including administration, business management, game-day operations, sport oversight, and partnerships. During his tenure, he was a key constituent in the transition to NCAA DII and was instrumental in significantly increasing annual fundraising to over $1 million in FY25 (up from over $800,000 in FY24), establishing new support organizations like the 6th Man and Dugout Club, and helping to bring NIL to student-athletes. He also provided direct supervision as Sport Administrator for Men's Soccer, Men's and Women's Golf, and Softball.

Prior to his role as Assistant Athletic Director, Spillers' contributions to the university began as a graduate assistant and director of baseball operations. He was instrumental in providing financial analysis, managing travel, and assisting with external operations and sponsorships. While at Western New Mexico, he spearheaded a new branding initiative, launched a new ticketing system, and provided insight on facility upgrades. He also managed all departmental and team social media accounts, increasing followers by more than 10,000 people.

"Over the past three years, Dakota has truly exemplified the spirit of teamwork within Jessup Athletics," said Scott Sorgea, Interim Director of Athletics. "His visionary perspective and servant-hearted leadership have played a pivotal role in propelling our teams to success. Dakota serves as an outstanding representation of the core values that Jessup Athletics upholds, and his absence will be deeply felt."

Speaking on his departure, Dakota shared, "My greatest takeaway from my time with Jessup's Athletic Department is the critical importance of intentional collaboration—building meaningful relationships with student-athletes, coaches, administrators, donors, and departments across campus. Throughout my tenure, I remained committed to ensuring that every student-athlete received the highest level of support and experience possible, much of which was accomplished behind the scenes with dedication and purpose."

Spillers also spoke about his personal connection to the university. "Jessup University has been more than just a workplace—it's been home. From my days as a student-athlete to serving as a Graduate Assistant, and Administrator, every role has deeply shaped who I am today. Jessup will always hold a special place in my heart."

He concluded, "I'm incredibly grateful for the journey God has led me on through this university. This community has poured into my life in ways that have grown me professionally, personally, and spiritually. My time here has been a testament to God's faithfulness, and I will forever be thankful for the people, the purpose, and the impact Jessup has had on my calling."

We wish Dakota and his growing family the best on his future endeavors, he will be missed.

A search for a new Assistant Athletic Director for Business Operations will begin immediately.

***

Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).